Cunard Line has confirmed a technical problem affecting one of the four Mermaid pod propulsion units on board the Queen Mary 2, currently sailing a 12-day “Norway and Northern Lights” itinerary. The voyage, which began in Southampton on November 7, 2025, and is due to end there on November 19, has been adjusted as engineers work to resolve the issue.

According to reports from guests onboard, one of the ship’s propeller nacelles is experiencing a malfunction. While the precise impact on speed and maneuverability remains unclear, Cunard has assured passengers that the voyage can continue safely with operational adjustments.

The itinerary has been modified to ensure the cruise proceeds smoothly. The ship arrived in Southampton later than expected at the start of the voyage, causing some embarkation delays. Despite the technical setback, Queen Mary 2 is continuing her northern itinerary and is currently sailing toward Trondheim, Norway, after two days at sea in the North Sea.

The liner is expected to continue to Tromsø and Ålesund as scheduled. However, the planned call at Hamburg on November 17, which was to include a partial passenger exchange, has been cancelled due to timing constraints related to the propulsion issue. Instead, the ship will call at Bremerhaven, where Cunard will provide shuttle buses to Hamburg for guests embarking and disembarking that day.

The cruise line is also preparing an updated shore excursion program for transit guests in Bremerhaven. Passengers joining or leaving the ship mid-voyage are being contacted directly with revised travel details.