The Norwegian conglomerate Kvaerner acquires Trafalgar
House for £904 million and assumes control of Cunard - this is
the second major ownership change for Cunard in its 156 year
history.

Royal Viking Sun is ‘relaunched’ in Dover after significant
repairs following her grounding.

Sagafjord withdrawn from Cunard service and chartered to
Transocean Cruises of Germany; subsequently sold to Saga
Cruises.

Cunard Countess sold to Awani Cruises of Indonesia.

QE2 completes a £12 million refit in Southampton, the first
time a UK yard had been used for 13 years.

Cunard become the first cruise line to reveal their Millennium
itineraries.

1997 QE2 commences six (instead of five) day Atlantic crossings
allowing the ship to take the more leisurely route between
Europe and America.

The management / charter contract of Cunard Dynasty is
ended and the vessel transfers to Norwegian Cruise Line. This
complete Cunard’s strategy of offering minimum five-star ships
and positions the company as the top cruise line in the world.

A fund-raising event for the Red Cross, which was to have
been attended by the late Diana, Princess of Wales, held on
board QE2 in Southampton. Guests include Cherie Blair,
Elizabeth Dole and Lord Attenborough.

Vistafjord and Sea Goddess I complete refurbishment
programme.

Cunard relocates its global headquarters to Miami after being
based in New York for 30 years.

Cunard’s five-ship fleet receives the highest ratings by Berlitz
‘Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships’. Four ships are
ranked number one in their respective categories.

QE2 celebrates the 30
th
Anniversary of her launch by HM The
Queen on 20 September 1967.

1998 Nelson Mandela sails on QE2 from Durban to Cape Town - the
first time a Head of State has travelled on board since HM The
Queen in 1990.



- 6 -
Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9