Archbishop Tutu arrives into Cape Town aboard Queen Mary 2

“This plaque was unveiled by Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu to commemorate his voyage onboard Queen Mary 2 between Port Louis and Cape Town from 20 March to 25 March 2010.” That is what is inscribed on the plaque that was unveiled today by the Most Reverend Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu upon arrival to Cape Town, South Africa, via the Queen Mary 2.

This was Cunard Line’s 2010 World Voyage and Queen Mary 2’s maiden call to Cape Town. Archbishop Tutu was joined by Captain Nick Bates and Cunard Line president Peter Shanks when the plaque was unveiled.

During the voyage, guests enjoyed a standing-room-only Cunard Insights Q&A session and lecture with ArchbishopTutu, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, the Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism, the Gandhi Peace Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Additionally, guests had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and bid on advanced copies of Archbishop Tutu’s new book, “Made for Goodness,” co-written by his daughter Mpho Andrea Tutu. Proceeds from the silent auction benefited his charity, the Zithulele Hospital based in Eastern Cape province.

“It was an honor to have Archbishop Tutu onboard Queen Mary 2 during this World Voyage, especially as the ship sailed into Cape Town for the first time,” said Peter Shanks. “Our guests were thrilled to have the opportunity to meet this living luminary, and I am delighted to say that he now holds a very special place in Cunard’s 170-year history.”

Archbishop Tutu joins Cunard’s illustrious legacy of welcoming world-famous guests and politicians, including Winston Churchill, President Nelson Mandela, Lady Margaret Thatcher, Elizabeth Taylor, James Taylor, Carly Simon, Rod Stewart, and Buzz Aldrin.

Cunard Insights is the company’s award-winning onboard enrichment program that introduces guests to stimulating experts and accomplished visionaries who reflect the line’s heritage of adventure and prestige. Through a series of lectures, Q&As, social gatherings, and workshops, guests connect with personalities who have achieved notable distinction in areas including history, world affairs, science, arts and literature. The Insights program underscores Cunard’s longstanding view that onboard entertainment should afford guests a provocative and rewarding cerebral experience.

For more information about Queen Mary 2 or to book a voyage, consult your travel professional, call toll-free 1-800-7-CUNARD (728-6273), or go to www.cunard.com .