Cunard achieved recession-defying record bookings when its 2011 World Voyage programme for Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth went on sale last Wednesday (1 July). Sales were up by more than 150% compared with the first day on sale of the 2010 World Voyage programme last year.

“We are delighted with this great response to our World Voyages for Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth,” said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. “We were the first company to offer a World Cruise back in 1922, and it is gratifying that people are still seeking out that civilized and authentic Cunard experience – even in a time of economic turbulence such as we have at present. Queen Elizabeth, whose keel was laid in Trieste last week (2 July), will make her maiden World Voyage in 2011,” Marlow added.

Cunard’s two ships will visit 57 destinations in 34 countries. In addition to Queen Elizabeth making her maiden World Voyage, Queen Mary 2 will again sail the intriguing east-west passage for her fourth World Voyage. This popular route takes the ship from New York to Southampton via the Caribbean, South America, South Africa, Australia, Asia, the Middle East and Southern Europe before completing the 103-day circumnavigation.

Prices for a full World Voyage start at $19,995 per person – or just under $200 per day!