Queen Anne arrives in Liverpool ahead of naming

The arrival of the new Cunard ship attracted large numbers of spectators to various vantage points along the banks of the River Mersey. Tens of thousands of people are expected to gather along the waterfront to witness the naming ceremony.

A host of VIP guests were invited on board the ship last month for an exclusive overnight experience.

‘...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,’ said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard. ‘We are all so excited for the city to see Queen Anne up close during what promises to be a very special celebration.’ 

The ship’s spiritual home

Liverpool was the birthplace of Cunard with its first transatlantic crossing departing from the city 184 years ago in July 1840, and it was the company’s headquarters for 128 years. 

A million people gathered in Liverpool for the arrival of Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1990 and over a million for the Three Queens Salute in 2015, comprising Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria. 

The vessel will embark on its British Isles Festival voyage following the festivities.