Cunard Releases Rare Photos for 175th Anniversary

2015 is a milestone year for Cunard, as the line celebrates its 175th anniversary of sailing. For the past 175 years the British/American-owned company has built up a reputation as the most distinguished line in the business. As well as introducing innovations such as on-board email, libraries and gymnasiums, its vessels were also the first to transport war horses, come to the rescue of Titanic and host a myriad of renowned personalities, including the late Charles Dickens, Queen Elizabeth II, Beyonce and Liz Taylor. To mark 175 years at sea the line has delved into its archives and revealed a treasure trove of photographs that capture the glitz and glamour of ship life throughout the decades.

Want a sneak peak at what Cunard has rustled up? Sit back and get ready to swoon as we take you on an insider’s photo tour of the Golden Age of cruising:

High tea on the high seas: Cunard passengers sit back and relax as they’re served by deck stewards dressed in their summer whites.

Given the fact that its ships are named after monarchs, it’s only fitting that the Queen pay her respects.

Academy Award-winning actress Elizabeth Taylor was famously enamoured with Cunard cruises.

Cunard’s first gymnasium in 1911 is quite different from the ones they boast today.

Breakfast in bed on-board RMS Mauretania was a suitably lavish affair.

Cunard’s cruise ships are fit for the Queen … and Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Without skydiving simulators and surf machines, shuffleboard was all the rage.

The staff positioned on the Carpathia, which famously came to the rescue of Titanic survivors in 1912.

Nelson Mandela and his wife were two of Queen Mary II’s most distinguished guests of all time.

Grandeur and elegance have always been at the heart of Cunard Line cruises.

Shaken or stirred? No doubt the bartenders on-board RMS Caronia knew their cocktails!

Rita Hayworth, another of the starlets to fall in love with Cunard cruises.

Even the legendary Walt Disney has graced the decks of Cunard.

It’s smiles all-round as a Cunard ship cruises into New York in 1967.

Anyone for a spot of badminton?

Today, Cunard suites are just as luxurious as their Golden Age predecessors.

175 years later and Cunard is still making waves!

Congratulations to Cunard for 175 years of luxury cruising. If you’d like to share a slice of the celebrations, visit Cruise 1st for incredible deals on all three of the line’s leading ladies. Alternatively, you can give our sales team a call on 0808 2746 777.

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All images courtesy of Cunard.