Queen Victoria marks birthday with royal visit, sale

Cunard's Queen Victoria, no stranger to royalty, will welcome Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, to mark the ship's fifth anniversary. The cruise line also begins a five-day sale today.

The anniversary bargains include savings of up to $555 per person, reduced deposit, on-board credit of up to $500 per stateroom, and complimentary balcony upgrades on 45 different voyages. The sale runs through Dec. 10.

Later that week, Camilla will visit the ship on Dec. 13 in Southampton, England. Prince Charles' wife also is scheduled to witness the unveiling of a painting of herself by noted artist Richard Stone. He has painted portraits of most of the royal family over the last three decades. Camilla officially named the ship five years ago, and the painting will become a permanent feature on board.

When the duchess arrives, the ship's crew will line the three tiers of the vessel's Grand Lobby. Passengers will also get a glimpse of royalty by lining the tiers for her departure.

After eating lunch on board, Camilla will cut a cake to mark the ship's birthday. She also will sign the ship's visitor's book for the third time.

While on board, Camilla will meet 12 Prince's Trust apprentices who have recently worked for Cunard companies. The trust was founded in 1976 by Charles, the Prince of Wales, to help disadvantaged youth develop workplace skills.

"We were honored that Her Royal Highness named this fine ship," Cunard president Peter Shanks said in a statement, "and are delighted that she continues to display such an interest both in the ship and its crew ... The Duchess will always be warmly welcomed on board."

Cruise Loggers, do Cunard's royal trappings really make the ship different, or is it window dressing? Share your thoughts below.

This item was written by Larry Bleiberg, former Travel Editor of The Dallas Morning News and Coastal Living magazine. Bleiberg is serving as Guest Editor of The Cruise Log while USA TODAY Cruise Editor Gene Sloan is away.