Imagine settling into a plush chair, noise-cancelling headphones on, and being transported by music to some of the world’s most legendary recording moments. Cunard’s new Listening Lounge experience on Queen Elizabeth transforms the Commodore Club into an intimate sonic haven, where guests embark on a 60-minute curated journey through Abbey Road Studios’ storied archives. This immersive offering is a first for luxury cruising, showcasing Cunard’s flair for blending innovation with onboard traditions.
A Voyage Through Iconic Recordings
Each playlist by Cunard is a treasure trove of musical history, featuring everything from Ed Sheeran’s Grammy-winning tracks—some recorded on Queen Mary 2—to the vibrant rhythms of Fela Kuti and the soulful voice of Gregory Porter. As you listen, the music unfolds like a map of popular culture, guiding you through decades of hits and hidden gems. It’s akin to wandering through a floating museum of sound, where every track sparks a new memory or discovery.
Hi-Res Audio and ANC Headphones
To honour Abbey Road’s commitment to audio excellence, the lounge uses Bowers & Wilkins Hi-Res Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) headphones. These state-of-the-art headsets capture the full depth and nuance of Studio One’s acoustics—whether it’s the subtlest orchestral swells in “The Lord of the Rings” or the percussive drive of the Black Panther score. Passengers can savour each note without distraction, from the hush of “Gravity” to the roar of “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”
Commodore Club as a Premium Venue
Located aft in the Royal Esplanade neighbourhood, the Commodore Club offers wraparound sea views and elegant décor that complement the Listening Lounge’s vibe. Soft lighting, snug seating and private compartments provide the perfect backdrop for focusing on the music. Unlike other cruise lines’ pop-up events, Cunard has integrated this experience seamlessly into the ship’s social heartbeat, ensuring that music lovers feel both immersed and at home.
Celebrating Musical Heritage On Board
Cunard’s collaboration with Abbey Road taps into a shared legacy: Liverpool’s Beatles recorded at both Abbey Road and Cunard’s spiritual homeport, linking two icons of British culture. This partnership elevates the cruise experience beyond standard playlists, intertwining maritime tradition with the studio’s creative spirit.
The Beatles Connection and Maritime Legacy
In 1969, just as Queen Elizabeth 2 completed her maiden Transatlantic Crossing, The Beatles released their eponymous “Abbey Road” album. Cunard honours that symmetry with bellhops recreating the famous zebra-crossing cover on their livery. Offering Beatles tracks alongside other legends cements Cunard’s reputation for storytelling—similar to Royal Caribbean’s Broadway-style productions on Star of the Seas.
Film Scores and Studio One Greats
Abbey Road’s legendary Studio One has been the birthplace of blockbuster soundtracks for over 45 years. Guests will hear stirring themes from “The Hobbit” trilogies, haunting melodies from “Tár” and pulse-pounding scores from “1917.” This cinematic showcase rivals the immersive film events found on Celebrity Cruises’ Riviera screenings, yet the intimate headphone format makes each score feel intensely personal.
Handpicked Playlists By Abbey Road Experts
Abbey Road’s engineers and curators have crafted thematic sets—“Jazz Legends,” “Classic Rock Anthems” and “Epic Film Scores”—each revealing under-the-radar anecdotes about recording techniques and stories behind the songs. These expert insights transform passive listening into an educational journey, much like the Artist Discovery Program on Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class.
Abbey Road At Sea Event Voyage
For guests craving a deeper dive, Cunard offers a special Event Voyage in October 2026: Southampton to New York, retracing the Transatlantic route favoured by musical luminaries. This themed sailing delivers live performances, exhibitions and rare access to Abbey Road’s master engineers.
Southampton to New York Crossing
Departing 23 October 2026, this week-long cruise follows the storied path of ocean liners and artists alike, celebrating the bond between Cunard and the music world. From evening deck concerts under the stars to acoustic sessions in the Commodore Club, every moment is tuned to the sound of sea and song.
Live Performances and Photography Exhibition
Abbey Road’s roster of musicians will perform unplugged sets featuring classics and new compositions, while a curated photography exhibition chronicles nine decades of studio history. Guests can admire shots of The Beatles at Abbey Road and behind-the-scenes glimpses of film-score recordings, bridging the worlds of visual and sonic storytelling.
Intimate Q&As With Industry Insiders
Recording and mastering engineers share the innovations that keep Abbey Road at the forefront of music production—everything from vintage tape machines to immersive Dolby Atmos mixing. These candid discussions offer rare insight, echoing the behind-the-scenes sessions found on Holland America’s niche enrichment cruises.
Elevate Your Cruise With Soundtrack Selection
The Listening Lounge isn’t just a one-off event; it’s woven into Queen Elizabeth’s regular offerings, inviting guests to curate their own on-demand playlists and pair the perfect soundtrack with every sea day.
Curated Cocktails And Scenery Pairings
Cunard bartenders have crafted a menu of Abbey Road-inspired cocktails—like the “Studio One Sour” and “Fifth of Abbey”—that reflect the mood of each playlist. Sip a “Goldfinger Martini” to a spy-thriller score or an “Ed Sheeran Sunset” poolside as Caribbean hues wash across the horizon. It’s a sensory match made in cruise heaven.
Sea Days Dedicated To Music Discovery
On select sea days, the Commodore Club hosts extended Listening Lounge sessions, allowing explorers to wander through multiple genres and eras. Families can rotate through kid-friendly “Disney at Abbey Road” sets while adults branch off to niche jazz or classical playlists, ensuring everyone finds their perfect soundtrack.
Inclusive Entertainment For All Guests
Cunard’s approach ensures accessibility: playlists include guided-meditation mixes for mindfulness, language-learning audio series and curated podcasts produced at Abbey Road. These selections cater to all ages and interests, embracing the cruise line’s philosophy that every voyage should speak to every passenger.
Embark on a musical odyssey and discover how Listening Lounge experience can transform your time at sea. Our Cruise Finder tool makes planning seamless—compare ship itineraries, departure dates and cabin categories in real time.
Whether you’re arranging a solo retreat, a multigenerational family holiday or a theme-focused event, Cruise Finder helps you lock in the perfect sailing with ease. Start mapping your journey and ensure you secure the best stateroom location for private listening sessions. Planning early not only reserves your ideal cabin—be it a Commodore Club-adjacent suite or a balcony rostrum for open-air serenades—but also unlocks exclusive perks, from beverage packages to loyalty credits.
Plan Your Listening Lounge Voyage Today
Cunard’s partnership with Abbey Road Studios brings the world’s greatest recordings to the open sea, creating an experience as rich and varied as any festival on land. Ready to soundtrack your next cruise with iconic tracks and exclusive events? Contact our cruise specialists and we’ll tailor every detail—from cabin selection to event access—to ensure your voyage becomes a truly memorable musical journey.
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