The Oceanic Steam Navigation Company, later known as Cunard Line, began the first regularly-scheduled motor-ship service across the Atlantic in 1840.  The Britannia, at 1,135 tons and 207 feet long, could carry 115 passengers, plus cargo.  She made her first run from Liverpool to Halifax in 12½ days.

Since then, Cunard have operated some of the best-known ships in the world.  They celebrated their 150th anniversary in 1990.

Rather than provide the most ostentatious of surroundings, Cunard's focus was on speed, reliability and safety.

Cunard ships also served as troopers in both world wars.  At one time the Queen Mary had over 16,000 souls on board, the most ever on a single ship.

 

 

cunardad.jpg (213979 bytes)

At right is a Cunard magazine announcement, circa 1950's or 1960's.  The ship at top is the Queen Mary.

Part of the Carnival empire, Cunard still operate two ships, the Queen Elizabeth 2 and the Caronia (3).   Two more ships are under contract.  The first, the Queen Mary 2, will be the largest passenger vessel ever constructed.