Queen Mary 2's Refurbishment: What's New Aboard Cunard's Flagship

The world's only true ocean liner is getting a major refresh.

Queen Mary 2 heads into dry dock at Damen Shiprepair Brest from March 31 to May 9, 2027, for a refurbishment spanning new staterooms, updated dining venues, a transformed wellness retreat and expanded kennels for guests traveling with pets, all while preserving the Art Deco character she's known for.

Here's what's changing aboard Cunard's flagship.

Please note: More updates are expected in the coming months. We will keep this post updated as more announcements and photos are released. Have questions before then? Feel free to contact one of our Cruise Experts.

New Staterooms & Reimagined Grill Suites

New Staterooms

The refurbishment adds 31 new staterooms to Queen Mary 2, including 16 Cunard Princess Grill Suites and 15 new staterooms in the Britannia category.

The new Princess Grill Suites bring more space and an elevated suite experience to guests who want the exclusivity of the Grills without stepping up to a Queens Grill Suite, while the Britannia additions expand the ship's standard cabin category, split between interior, oceanview and balcony choices.

Reimagined Grill Suites, Dining

Every existing Grill Suite is getting a refresh, with new interiors, furnishings and newly designed spa-inspired bathrooms.

The Queens Grill and Princess Grill restaurants are being updated alongside the suites, preserving the intimate dining experience Grill guests have come to expect while revamping the spaces they dine in.

Wellness, Retail & Outdoor Spaces

Wellness & Retail

Queen Mary 2's spa, Mareel Wellness & Beauty, is being transformed into an updated space designed to help guests unwind and reset over the course of a crossing. A new collection of luxury stores is also being introduced, bringing a more boutique-style shopping experience aboard.

Outdoor Spaces & Illuminations

Guests will find additional outdoor deck space throughout the ship, with more room to relax, watch the sunset and take in the sea air, alongside the classic deck games and pickleball already available onboard.

Illuminations, the largest planetarium at sea, is also getting a major digital upgrade, delivering more immersive experiences underneath its dome.

The Only Kennels at Sea

Queen Mary 2's kennels are the only ones aboard a ship in regular transatlantic service, and the refurbishment gives them a meaningful upgrade. The kennels are being redesigned with increased capacity, while the dedicated owners' lounge is getting a refresh and the outdoor walking area is expanding, giving pets more room to stretch their legs.

For guests who've always wanted to sail with a dog or cat rather than board them at home, this remains one of the few ways to do it at sea, and the added capacity means more guests may be able to bring their pets along on future crossings.

Curious about cruising with pets? Read our blog: Do Cruise Ships Allow Dogs?

Design Vision & Timeline

Design Vision

Led by Chris Finch, one of Queen Mary 2's original designers, the redesign draws on classic Hollywood glamour and British tradition. Cunard has also partnered with illustrator Tanu Vasu, who created a bespoke collection of illustrations for the ship. The intention is for the design to feel new while still being recognizable.

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, described the project as one where "every decision has been approached with deep respect for her heritage, her character and the sense of occasion" that Queen Mary 2 offers, refining what guests already love rather than reinventing it.

Dry Dock Timeline

The work begins on March 31, 2027, when Queen Mary 2 arrives at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France. She's back in service by May 9, ready to welcome guests aboard her refreshed spaces for the 2027 summer season.

Book Your Queen Mary 2 Voyage

Whether you're dreaming of a classic Transatlantic Crossing or eager to sail aboard Queen Mary 2's refreshed staterooms, our Cruise Experts offer free vacation planning services and can help you find the right sailing and stateroom category for your trip.

Booking your Cunard voyage with The Cruise Web means:

• Unbiased, personalized guidance matching you to the right Grill Suite or Britannia stateroom category
• Exclusive access to amenities and onboard credit you won't find when booking direct
• Help booking kennel reservations for guests traveling with dogs or cats
• One point of contact for questions before, during & after your voyage

Call 1-800-377-9383 or visit CruiseWeb.com to start planning your Queen Mary 2 voyage today.

Note: The contents of this article are accurate as of the publication date. Cunard's ships, inclusions and amenities are subject to change at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When does Queen Mary 2 enter dry dock for its refurbishment?

Queen Mary 2 enters dry dock at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France on March 31, 2027, and returns to service on May 9, 2027.

What's changing aboard Queen Mary 2, and what's staying the same?

The refurbishment adds new staterooms, refreshed Grill Suites and dining venues, an updated wellness retreat, new retail spaces and expanded kennels.

What's staying the same is Queen Mary 2's Art Deco character, her role as the only ship in the world offering regularly scheduled Transatlantic Crossings, and onboard staples like deck games and pickleball.

Cunard has described the approach as refining what guests already love rather than reinventing it.

How many new staterooms is Queen Mary 2 adding?

The refurbishment adds 31 new staterooms, including 16 Cunard Princess Grill Suites and 15 staterooms in the Britannia category.

Are Queen Mary 2's existing Grill Suites being renovated?

Yes. Every existing Grill Suite is being refreshed with new interiors, furnishings and newly designed spa-inspired bathrooms, alongside updates to the Queen's Grill and Princess Grill restaurants.

Is Queen Mary 2's kennel program being expanded?

Yes. The kennels are being redesigned with increased capacity, along with a refurbished owners' lounge and an expanded outdoor walking area.

Will Queen Mary 2's Art Deco style be preserved?

Yes. Cunard has stated the refurbishment is intended to refine, not reinvent, what guests already love about Queen Mary 2, preserving her Art Deco character throughout the redesign.

Why book Queen Mary 2 with The Cruise Web?

Our Cruise Experts offer free vacation planning services and personalized guidance to help you find the right sailing and stateroom category aboard Queen Mary 2, whether you're booking before or after the 2027 refurbishment.