As the cruising world held its breath in anticipation, the illustrious Queen Anne ship by Cunard graced the waters of Southampton last week, heralding a new era of traditional cruising.
During a traditional handover ceremony, Cunard took ownership of the ship at the Italian shipyard in Venice on 19 April.
Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, spoke at the ceremony stating: “Not only does she reflect the Cunard distinctive style on the outside, the inside perfectly echoes the brand heritage with reimagined, elegant spaces and designs.”
The Arrival in Southampton
Amidst a flurry of excitement and anticipation, Queen Anne glided into the port of Southampton, its sleek silhouette cutting through the water with grace and poise.
Stepping on board, passengers are transported to a world of luxury. From the lavish accommodations to the exquisite dining options, every detail exudes refinement and style. Queen Anne seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence for discerning travellers.
Queen Anne
The company’s first new cruise ship in 14 years, departs on its maiden voyage to Lisbon later this week, with Cunard’s first female captain, Inger Klein Thorhauge, at the helm. This 14-deck, 113,000-tonne ship is the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag.
One of the most notable features of Queen Anne is its impressive art collection, curated to enhance the onboard experience for passengers. Displayed throughout the ship’s public spaces and staterooms, these masterpieces encompass a diverse range of styles and periods, offering guests an insight into centuries of artistic achievement. From classic oil paintings to contemporary sculptures, the art onboard Queen Anne reflects the rich cultural heritage of Cunard’s esteemed lineage.
Despite its modern amenities and contemporary luxuries, Queen Anne also pays homage to Cunard’s storied tradition of cruising elegance. Guests can partake in traditional afternoon tea or immerse themselves in the glamour of black-tie evenings reminiscent of the golden age of ocean liners.
Exploring Southampton
While Southampton served as a temporary home for the Queen Anne, it is far from a mere pit stop. This historic port city boasts a rich cruising heritage, with centuries of seafaring history woven into its fabric.
Visitors had the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks such as the medieval Bargate and the Tudor House Museum, immersing themselves in the charm and character of this coastal gem, a perfect sentiment to the tradition you see onboard a Cunard ship.
Cruise from Southampton to have the opportunity yourself to view these amazing landmarks and historical sites before embarking on their journey across the waters.
The Naming Ceremony in Liverpool
On June 3rd, amidst the historic setting of Liverpool Pier Head, journalists from around the world converge to witness the spectacular naming ceremony of the Queen Anne.
The iconic waterfront provides a picturesque backdrop as crowds eagerly await the majestic entrance of the ship into the Mersey. With cameras poised and pens at the ready, the global media prepares to capture every moment of this momentous occasion.
Why not take a look at one of our recent blogs Cunard Announce Queen Anne Naming Ceremony to find out more about the event happening in Liverpool.
With its timeless beauty and unparalleled luxury, Queen Anne’s reign has only just begun.
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