Sail with Cunard then Celebrate Christmas in New York from £2,800pp

New York & Cunard at Christmas 2027 | The Ultimate Festive Journey 

Imagine sailing into New York Harbour as the Manhattan skyline slowly comes into view, twinkling with festive lights, rather than jolting awake on a red‑eye flight. That is the magic of crossing the Atlantic by sea at Christmas: unhurried, elegant and deeply atmospheric. For December 2027, I have created a very special holiday that combines the timeless glamour of Cunard with the sparkle of New York at Christmas, and I am so excited to share it with you.

This example itinerary is based on a balcony cabin and 5 nights in New York, with the full experience coming in from around £2,800 per person.

Sail from Southampton on Cunard | A Christmas Crossing in Style 

Your journey begins in Southampton, where you step on board one of Cunard’s iconic Queens for a classic transatlantic crossing. From the moment you see the ship dressed for the season, the tone is set, Christmas trees twinkling in the atrium, garlands wrapped along grand staircases and a warm, festive buzz in every lounge and bar.

Cunard’s afternoon tea in the ballroom is one of the true highlights of life on board. White‑gloved waiters glide between tables with tiered stands of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones and exquisite pastries, all served beneath sparkling chandeliers while the pianist plays softly in the background. It is a daily ritual that feels gloriously indulgent and wonderfully unhurried, a true “step back in time” moment.

Throughout the crossing you will enjoy: 

·         Beautifully decorated public spaces with Christmas trees and festive touches around every corner 

·         Exceptional dining with multi‑course dinners, fine wines and more relaxed options if you prefer something informal 

·         The famous bell boy experience, where Cunard’s impeccable crew help you feel instantly at home and effortlessly looked after 

·         A generous 250 USD on board credit to enjoy as you wish, whether that is a special dinner, a spa treatment or a little something from the on‑board boutiques

Rather than feeling like transport, the crossing becomes part of the holiday, time to dress up for gala nights, stroll the promenade deck, read, relax and really ease into the festive spirit.

Arriving in New York by Sea 

There are few travel experiences that compare to sailing into New York. Dawn breaking over the Atlantic, the Statue of Liberty appearing on the horizon, the skyline of Manhattan slowly revealing itself in the morning light: it feels cinematic, nostalgic and completely unforgettable.

Arriving in New York by ship, rather than by plane, gives you a real sense of journey and anticipation. You step ashore already in the rhythm of the holiday, not jet‑lagged and rushed, but refreshed and ready to explore.

New York at Christmas | Lights, Shopping and Ice Skating 

Once in New York, you will check into the InterContinental New York Times Square, right in the heart of Midtown. This stylish hotel puts you perfectly placed for the best of the city’s festive magic, Broadway, Fifth Avenue, Central Park and the Rockefeller Centre are all within easy reach.

With five nights in the city, you have time to really soak it all up: 

·         The Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree, stand in front of the iconic tree, glittering against the Manhattan skyline 

·         Shopping on Fifth Avenue: see Saks lit up with its spectacular light displays and soak up the luxury window shopping at iconic stores like Louis Vuitton 

·         Ice skating in Central Park: glide across the ice with the city skyline all around you, one of those “movie moment” experiences that will stay with you long after you come home 

·         Time to wander neighbourhoods, find cosy cafés and enjoy the buzz of New York in full festive swing

A Gourmet Dinner Tour with Panoramic City Views 

To make your time in New York even more special, this holiday includes a gourmet dinner tour with Bustronome, a luxury dining experience on wheels. You will: 

·         Dine on a multi‑course gourmet meal while 

·         Travelling through the city under a panoramic glass roof 

·         Watching the lights and landmarks of New York at Christmas glide past your table

It is a wonderfully comfortable, indulgent way to soak up the festive atmosphere: no battling the crowds or standing in the cold, just great food, great views and a truly memorable evening.

Refined Comfort | InterContinental New York Times Square 

Your New York base is a premium stay at the InterContinental New York Times Square, a modern, stylish hotel in Midtown West. Expect: 

·         A fantastic location for theatre, shopping and sightseeing 

·         Comfortable, well‑appointed rooms to retreat to after a busy festive day 

·         An ideal balance of luxury and convenience for a five‑night New York stay

Flights Home to Complete the Journey 

To complete the journey, you will fly home from New York to London after your five nights in the city, bringing you smoothly back to the UK after this unforgettable festive adventure.

Why This Holiday Works So Well 

This December 2027 itinerary captures the very best of both worlds: 

·         The romance of a Cunard transatlantic crossing: elegant afternoons, festive evenings and the joy of slow travel 

·         The magic of New York at Christmas: world‑class shopping, iconic sights, sparkling lights and unforgettable experiences 

·         Thoughtful, joined‑up planning: a seamless journey from Southampton to New York, five nights in the heart of the city, and then back to the UK by air, with hand‑picked experiences that make the most of your time away

It is a trip that feels both classic and luxurious, perfect for a milestone celebration, a long‑dreamed‑of crossing or simply a very special way to end the year.

If this has sparked something for you and you would like to explore specific dates, cabins and room types that suit you best, I would be delighted to tailor this December 2027 New York & Cunard Christmas journey around you.

Contact your Travel Counsellor today to start planning your own festive transatlantic adventure.