Cunard has announced that renowned British actor Hugh Bonneville will join Queen Elizabeth as an Insight Speaker in the Caribbean this November.
Famed for his roles as Lord Grantham in Downton Abbey and the beloved Mr Brown in the Paddington franchise, the Emmy-nominated actor will offer guests an exclusive glimpse behind the curtain of his distinguished career in film, television, and theatre.
From the grandeur of Highclere Castle to the marmalade mishaps of Windsor Gardens, Hugh will share anecdotes, reflections, and more during an intimate on board Q&A for Cunard guests.
The British TV icon will join the 2,000-guest Queen Elizabeth as part of her 12-night round-trip Eastern Caribbean voyage, which departs Miami on the 27th of November 2025.
The voyage will allow guests to discover the many treasures and rich cultural heritage of the Eastern Caribbean, with calls to Antigua, St Lucia, Barbados, St Maarten, and Tortola - as well as sea days to relax and unwind on the newly transformed Queen Elizabeth.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Hugh onboard Queen Elizabeth this year. He’s one of the most respected actors in British film and television, and his talent, warmth and wit make him a wonderful addition to our award-winning Insights Speaker programme.”
Hugh Bonneville added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be sailing with Cunard in the Caribbean. There’s something uniquely timeless and romantic about travelling by sea, especially when the ship is as elegant as Queen Elizabeth. I look forward to sharing a few stories, hopefully a laugh or two, and exploring the Caribbean with my fellow guests.”
Queen Elizabeth’s transformation earlier this year was designed to give guests even more opportunities to admire gorgeous Caribbean vistas, with more sun shades to the aft deck to accommodate warmer weather.
Signature spaces such as the Commodore Club, Queens Room, Garden Lounge, and The Pavilion have also been thoughtfully revitalised, connecting guests to the ocean while providing the perfect space to relax or enjoy al fresco dining.
Queen Elizabeth’s inaugural Caribbean voyage from Miami departs on the 16th of October 2025; a 12-night round-trip sailing offering guests the chance to visit Bridgetown’s UNESCO-listed Garrison and bustling markets of Castries, St Lucia.
This special sailing is part of Cunard’s renowned Insights Speaker programme, which brings celebrated personalities from the worlds of film, literature, science and beyond to sea for thought-provoking talks and exclusive events.
