Cunard’s Timeless Connection with Liverpool Revived as Queen Anne Arrives

Cunard’s enduring bond with Liverpool was celebrated anew today (3 June) as the luxury cruise line’s newest ship, Queen Anne, arrived in its spiritual home.

Her arrival drew a large number of spectators to the banks of the River Mersey, eager to witness the 249th ship to fly the Cunard flag making its maiden call to Liverpool.

Liverpool is where Cunard’s journey began, with its first transatlantic crossing departing 184 years ago in July 1840. The city served as the company’s headquarters for 128 years. The affection the people of Liverpool have for Cunard is unmistakable, especially when a Cunard ship arrives on the Mersey.

This deep connection is evident from past events, such as the million-strong crowd for the QE2 in 1990 and over a million for the Three Queens Salute in 2015—the same year Cunard was awarded the Freedom of the City.

Today, tens of thousands are expected to gather along the waterfront to witness the traditional naming ceremony, believed to bring good fortune to the new vessel.

The ceremony will formally introduce Queen Anne to its spiritual home, continuing the seafaring tradition with the symbolic smashing of a bottle of champagne against the ship.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, stated:

“Queen Anne’s British Isles Festival voyage is celebrating the very best of Great Britain and Ireland, and we are delighted that our newest ship has now arrived in Liverpool. This wonderful city is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we share such an incredible bond, so what better place to officially name our new ship than somewhere that holds so many special memories. We are all so excited for the city to see Queen Anne up close during what promises to be a very special celebration.”

Queen Anne: The New Jewel of the Seas

Whatever your dream destination, discover it with Queen Anne. The latest addition to the Cunard fleet, her design blends heritage, craftsmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation. The 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship spans 14 decks, offering travellers an array of breathtaking experiences and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before.

She boasts the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal, and spa facilities seen on a Cunard ship, with the reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty proposition heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea.

Throughout her maiden season, Queen Anne will sail from Southampton on itineraries to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, and the Norwegian Fjords, visiting over 60 unique destinations in 16 countries, including several of Europe’s most enchanting ancient cities.

For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com.