Cunard's first ship, Britannia, set sail across the Atlantic on 4 July 1840, inaugurating a service that has endured for 175 years. Cunard's success is in part due to its continuous technological advances; from the early years of wooden paddle steamers to steel-hulled leviathans, electric lighting to steam turbine engines. But it is the ships themselves, the shipbuilders, managers, crew and guests that have had the greatest impact on the success of the line, creating unique environments full of personality.

The Cunard fleet answered the call of duty during the two world wars and transported thousands of troops to fight for the Allied forces. Cunard's QE2 was a much-beloved liner and the most famous ship at sea, participating in the Falklands campaign and sailing more than 2.5 million miles during a 40-year career.

Today the three current Queens are a celebration of Cunard's heritage and are considered to be some of the greatest ships in the world, providing luxurious accommodation, excellent service and lively entertainment whilst their passengers travel the world.

This book uses stunning photographs and personal stories to explore the history of these magnificent ships.