Cunard's Queen Elizabeth to sail out of PortMiami for first time since 1840

PortMiami’s cruise season is off to a booming start with 10 new ships arriving at the cruise capital of the world this year, including one with a royal connection.

For the first time in its 185-year history, Cunard Line is homeporting one of its iconic Queens in South Florida.

The Queen Elizabeth, a 15-year-old vessel named and christened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010, will sail from Miami through April 2026, marking a significant milestone for one of the world’s oldest and most storied shipping companies.

“This was just the perfect time and perfect momentum to have a home port season out of Miami,” said Elizabeth Fettes, Cunard’s senior vice president of commercial. “North America in general is just such a great market for us and the guests… they have such a fandom for Cunard.”

Cunard, which is owned by Miami-based Carnival Corporation, is known for its refined British luxury and deep cultural roots. The company has transported some of the most famous names in history, including Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Taylor, Nelson Mandela and even Queen Elizabeth II.

Cruise industry expert Stewart Chiron said Cunard has a uniquely prestigious place in the market.

“It’s the Beverly Hills of the cruise industry,” he said. “The panache, the elegance, the connection to British royalty.”

Earlier this year, the Queen Elizabeth underwent an extensive refurbishment, refreshing its Art Deco-inspired interiors and enhancing amenities that blend timeless elegance with modern comfort. Guests onboard can enjoy 10 gourmet restaurants, a two-story library and one of the largest dance floors at sea.

Passenger Daryle Prager, who has been sailing with Cunard for decades, said the line’s historic character is part of its appeal.

“I love tradition… This is one of the last cruise lines that cruises like a cruise ship used to cruise,” she said. “It’s just fine service that hasn’t changed, I guess, for 100 years.”

The Queen Elizabeth will offer nine- and 12-night Caribbean itineraries from PortMiami to destinations including Jamaica, Mexico, Aruba and St. Lucia. The ship is expected to draw cruise enthusiasts from South Florida, across the United States and abroad.

Chiron said the ship’s presence is already boosting South Florida tourism.

“A lot more Brits are going to be coming to Miami to sail the Caribbean on this amazing ship. It’s gonna do a lot for the Miami economy,” he said.

PortMiami director and CEO Hydi Webb said the international reach will extend far beyond the cruise terminal.

“Not only are these passengers spending time locally in Miami-Dade County, but they’re flying through our world-class Miami International Airport with international connections around the world, which is super important,” she said.

After completing its Caribbean season in April, the Queen Elizabeth will head to Alaska for summer sailings. The ship is scheduled to return to Miami later in the year to resume its Caribbean routes.