Any top athlete will tell you it’s the small details that can spell the difference between a good game and a great one. It’s the same with holidays – and especially with cruises, where the onboard experience makes or breaks the feeling you come away with.

Since its inception in 1840, Cunard has garnered a reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious cruise lines. For next year, they are offering a cruise specifically tailored to sports-lovers – and which offers something exciting for those passionate about golf.

On 13 February 2024, the inaugural Sporting Greats & Wellness Voyage will set sail from Sydney. Taking place on board the breathtaking Queen Elizabeth, the seven-night cruise will plot a course to Melbourne and Tasmania, giving passengers the opportunity to play at some of Australia’s most iconic golf courses* with a line-up of living sporting legends among your fellow guests.

“I think if you love sport, you also love being active and this cruise will have it all,” says Karrie Webb AO, who has called the opportunity to partner with Cunard “a no-brainer”. Webb will be among a line-up of A-list Australian sportspeople – including Brett Lee, Adam Goodes and Channel 7 sports presenter Mark Beretta – who will be joining guests on board the Sporting Greats & Wellness Voyage.

These sporting icons will be conducting a series of Q&A panels for guests throughout the voyage. Guests will also have the unique opportunity to swing their clubs at some of Australia's most prestigious and scenic golf courses such as the NSW Golf Club, Royal Hobart Golf Club, and Tasman Golf Club in Port Arthur*. 

“Personally, I’ve always enjoyed listening to other athletes from different sports talk about their journey throughout their careers,” says Webb. “I’m looking forward to hearing Brett Lee’s and Adam Goodes’ inspiring stories. I know that guests will also get a lot out of these speakers, as well as mingling with us all on board the cruise during the bespoke and hands-on activities.

 
Brett Lee is one of the greats on the cruise. PHOTO: Supplied.

“I hope guests will leave the cruise inspired and full of new ideas and tips on how to stay active, how to improve their game or feel energised to try a new sport or wellness regime.”

Of course, holidays are seldom a solo experience. If you’ve got family members or friends who might be accompanying you on this cruise, and who themselves are more interested in varying combinations of wellness and indulgence, the Sporting Greats & Wellness Voyage will tick all these boxes.

"...being able to relax without the hustle is important to me. And most importantly, terrific food and wine is the foundation for a great experience; I am looking forward to indulging a little.” – Karrie Webb.

Trusted health and wellbeing expert and media personality, Dr Joanna McMillan, will take the stage of the Royal Court Theatre, delivering to Queen Elizabeth’s guests a presentation on how nutrition and lifestyle factors impact the body and mind, as well as how positive aging can add more life into our years. She’ll also be showcasing food for the brain and gut during a cooking demonstration.

Acclaimed scientist in the field of nutrition and healthy longevity, Professor Luigi Fontana, will elaborate on the science and philosophy of health, exercise and wellbeing, and how their interplay can result in a longer life. He will also be available for a more intimate Q&A session, which will give guests the opportunity for more tailored wellbeing advice.

“I think whether or not you are an elite athlete, it is important to look after your mind and body,” says Webb. “Staying active and eating healthily are two of the ways I try to look after myself. It’s always good after a stressful period of work, that you also reward yourself with something that resets your mind. A Cunard cruise is a great way to do that.”

 
Karrie Webb is excited about sharing her success secrets on the cruise. PHOTO: Supplied.

Aside from this wellness focus, there will be ample opportunities for pampering. Cunard guests will have their table reserved daily in one of the sophisticated onboard restaurants.

Those staying in the exclusive Queens Grill Suites – spacious staterooms with private balconies, marble bathrooms and a dedicated butler service – will have the coveted opportunity to take their meals in the Queens Grill Restaurant, which emulates the world’s finest kitchens, where high-end dining menus might include Dover Sole Meunière, croquettes of suckling pig, or an impeccably executed Chateaubriand.

“Paying attention to the small details is one thing that I have always emphasised in my career. Often, it’s the little things that make a difference,” says Webb. “On the one hand, being able to relax without the hustle is important to me. And most importantly, terrific food and wine is the foundation for a great experience; I am looking forward to indulging a little.”

The Sporting Greats & Wellness Voyage will take place from 13 to 20 February 2024, setting sail from Sydney.

Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Australian sporting greats while enjoying a luxurious summer cruise. Start planning your summer holiday on board Cunard's inaugural Sporting Greats & Wellness Voyage.

*Guest speakers are confirmed to date but may change at Cunard's discretion due to unforeseen circumstances. Some experiences are not included in the cruise fare and charges apply. Experiences must be booked prior to sailing. Spaces are limited and guests are advised to book early to avoid disappointment.