Cunard has unveiled results from neuroscience research conducted aboard the Queen Mary 2, which explored the benefits of slow travel at sea.
The first-of-its-kind and international study involved 40 guests on a Transatlantic Crossing and revealed that five days at sea can increase cognitive abilities.
The cruise line said in a press release that the findings highlighted a 29 percent improvement in short-term memory recall, a 125 percent increase in complex problem-solving ability, and a 14% improvement in attention levels.
Participants also experienced a 158 percent increase in perceived relaxation, with the number of people describing themselves as “relaxed.”
The study was conducted by the Human Understanding Agency, Walnut, and involved 40 guests from around the world embarking on the Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to New York.
Researchers used biometric tools to measure cognitive and physiological changes before and after five days at sea.
Dr Jack Lewis, a neuroscientist, said: “What stands out in this study is how neatly all the pieces fit together. The passengers’ time on the ship reduced their stress levels, based on subjective and objective measures.”
“The main stress hormone, cortisol, is well-known in the science research literature to interfere with various cognitive processes. So, the boost in memory and logical reasoning capacity identified in this study is likely attributed to the stress-relieving impact of ocean travel.”
“This, combined with the array of stimulating activities onboard the world’s only ocean liner, allows the passengers’ brains to unlock their full potential.”
Beyond the study’s cognitive findings, Cunard’s voyage is designed to foster well-being, comprising lectures by world-renowned experts as part of the Cunard Insights program and personalized wellness treatments. This is complemented by Cunard’s White Star Service.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, added: “This study reinforces what we have always known: A Cunard voyage is much more than just a holiday.”
