A neuroscience investigation aboard the Queen Mary 2 reveals how traveling by sea significantly improves cognitive abilities.
For more than 180 years, Cunard has championed the restorative power of sea travel. Groundbreaking new research conducted on Cunard’s flagship, the Queen Mary 2, confirms that just five days at sea can have a positive impact on several cognitive abilities, including memory, logical reasoning, perceptual skills, and problem-solving, demonstrating that Cunard’s transatlantic voyage significantly benefits mental and emotional well-being.
This pioneering neuroscience research revealed that Cunard's transatlantic voyage, combined with its enriching experiences program, can increase cognitive abilities by 26%, making travelers more alert, focused, and resilient.
The study, conducted by the Human Understanding Agency, involved 40 passengers from around the world who embarked 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 improvements in memory, problem-solving, attention, and overall emotional well-being.
The main results obtained were the following:
- Memory: a 29% improvement in word recall, indicating better short-term memory performance.
- Problem solving: 125% improvement in complex logical and spatial reasoning tasks.
- Note: 14% improvement in concentration during visual tasks.
- Relaxation: Self-reported relaxation increased by 158%, while overall physiological stress levels decreased by 35%, reflecting the relaxing influence of travel.
Neuroscientist Dr. Jack Lewis commented on the results: “What strikes me most about this study is how well all the pieces fit together. The time passengers spent on the ship clearly reduced their stress levels, according to both subjective and objective measures. The main stress hormone, cortisol, is well known in the scientific literature for interfering with various cognitive processes. So, the increase in memory and logical reasoning ability observed in this study is likely attributable to the stress-relieving effect of sea travel. This, combined with the incredible array of stimulating activities on board the world’s only ocean liner, allows passengers’ brains to unleash their full potential.”.
Beyond the study's cognitive findings, Cunard's unique offering provides an unparalleled sanctuary for relaxation and renewal. From captivating lectures by world-renowned experts as part of the Cunard Insights to personalized wellness treatments, every element of the journey is thoughtfully designed to promote well-being. All of this is complemented by Cunard's celebrated White Star Service , ensuring that every moment on board is distinguished by its personalized attention.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, added: “This study reinforces what we’ve always known: a Cunard voyage is so much more than a holiday. Our carefully curated enrichment programs, bespoke wellness experiences, world-class dining, and renowned White Star Service, combined with the opportunity to relax and embrace the serenity of the ocean, leave our passengers feeling refreshed, inspired, and revitalized.”
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