Cunard Capt. Christopher Wells retires with commodore rank

For the past 13 years, Wells has led the team on board Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2 and was a key part of the commissioning of the ship, which launched in 2004.

Cunard President Simon Palethorpe said, ‘Commodore Wells has been a wonderful ambassador for Cunard, proudly upholding the finest traditions and highest standards… It is only fitting, and I am delighted, that he be awarded the rank of commodore, the highest rank afforded to any seafarer.’

Noting Wells’ ‘much loved sense of humour’ and ‘respect he commanded,’ Palethorpe added, ‘he’ll be sorely missed by colleagues and guests alike… We thank him for the enormous contribution he has made to Cunard, in a highlight packed career, and wish him an equally successful retirement.’

Career

Bournemouth-born Wells began working on cruise ships in 1992, first with Cunard then Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises and P&O Cruises Australia before returning to Cunard.

He met Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth twice in his career: as master at the naming of Queen Elizabeth and during the naming event for Queen Mary 2.

In 2017, he climbed the tallest sail of the Sydney Opera House to mark the 10-year anniversary of Queen Mary 2’s first visit to the city.

Royal Navy

Wells combined his seafaring career with a 25-year commission in the Royal Naval Reserve, of which he remains an honorary captain.