• Cunard, the luxury cruise line, unveils pioneering neuroscience research conducted aboard the iconic Queen Mary 2 to explore the tangible benefits of slow travel.
• An international study involving 40 guests on a Transatlantic Crossing revealed that just five days at sea can increase cognitive abilities such as memory, spatial reasoning, logical thinking, and problem-solving on average by 26%.
• Findings highlighted an impressive 29% improvement in short-term memory recall, a 125% increase in complex problem-solving ability, and a 14% improvement in attention levels.
• Participants also experienced a 158% increase in perceived relaxation, with the number of people describing themselves as “relaxed,” underscoring the rejuvenating effects of Cunard’s luxury voyages.

For more than 180 years, Cunard has championed the restorative power of ocean travel. New ground-breaking research conducted on Cunard’s flagship, Queen Mary 2, confirms that just five days at sea can positively impact various cognitive abilities, such as memory, logical reasoning, perceptual abilities, and problem-solving, demonstrating that Cunard’s Transatlantic Crossing significantly benefits mental and emotional wellbeing.

In a first-of-its-kind neuroscience study, the results revealed that Cunard’s Transatlantic Crossing, combined with their program of enriching experiences, can increase cognitive abilities by 26%, making travelers more alert, focused, and resilient.

The study, conducted by Human Understanding Agency, Walnut, involved 40 guests from around the world embarking on the iconic Transatlantic Crossing from Southampton to New York. Researchers used biometric tools to measure cognitive and physiological changes before and after five days at sea. The results were remarkable, showing notable improvements in memory, problem-solving, attention, and overall emotional well-being.

Key findings included:

• Memory: A 29% improvement in word recall, indicating enhanced short-term memory performance.
• Problem-Solving: 125% improvement in complex logical and spatial reasoning tasks.
• Attention: 14% improvement in focus during visual tasks.
• Relaxation:  Self-reported relaxation rose by 158%, while overall physiological stress levels decreased by 35%, reflecting the relaxing influence of the voyage.

Dr Jack Lewis, a neuroscientist, commented on the findings: “What stands out for me in this study is how neatly all the pieces fit together. The passengers’ time on the ship clearly reduced their stress levels based on subjective and objective measures. The main stress hormone, cortisol, is well-known in the science research literature to interfere with various cognitive processes. So, the boost in memory and logical reasoning capacity identified in this study is likely to be attributed to the stress-relieving impact of ocean travel. This, combined with the amazing array of stimulating activities onboard the world’s only ocean liner, allows the passenger’s brains to unlock their full potential.”

Beyond the study’s cognitive findings, Cunard’s unique offering provides an unmatched sanctuary for relaxation and renewal. From captivating lectures by world-renowned experts as part of the Cunard Insights program to personalized wellness treatments, each element of the voyage is thoughtfully designed to foster well-being.  This is all complemented by Cunard’s celebrated White Star Service, ensuring every moment aboard is distinguished by personalized attention and elegance.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, added: “This study reinforces what we have always known – a Cunard voyage is much more than just a holiday. Our thoughtfully curated enrichment programs, bespoke wellness experiences, world-class dining, and renowned White Star Service combined with the opportunity to unwind and embrace the serenity of the ocean leave our guests feeling refreshed, inspired, and reinvigorated.”