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EROLLER posted these thoughts on the thread on CruiseCritic about Cunard future as a brand and to what degree Carnival will build and keep Cunard distinct:
"I think you make some valid points. The question has been raised within the cruise industry and insider publications of just how successful Cunard is?
Cunard has assumed a much less visible position since the introduction of QM2, and no doubt had Cunard been wildly successful it would have not been folded into the Princess brand.
Apparently there are only two dedicated Cunard executives at Cunard now, and the rest of the staff is shared with Princess Cruises. Some industry insiders are wondering if Cunard can maintain it's unique character or will it eventually be totally integrated?
Meanwhile the rest of the large Carnival brands are ordering new ships like crazy ... Princess, Costa, P&O, Carnival, Holland America, and even smaller AIDA. Unfortunately Cunard had it's only ship on order (QV) deferred to a later date and the original given to another brand. I guess there is no pressing need for Cunard to have additional tonnage.
I think once QV is introduced in 2007 we will see QE2 leave the fleet. I have a feeling Cunard will remain a small, two ship brand for the foreseeable future. One thing is certain regarding QE2, once she outlives her usefulness to Carnival Corp. she will be gone. There is no love lost within Carnival Corp. for old ships that are expensive to operate. This has been proven time and time again."
