Queen Anne sets sail on maiden world voyageQueen Anne sets sail on maiden world voyage

Fireworks illuminated Queen Anne and the skies over the Port of Southampton last night in a special display marking the start of the ship's maiden world voyage. 

The 107-night cruise, which got underway at 9pm on January 9, features calls to Miami, San Francisco, the Panama Canal, Honolulu, Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong and more, with the ship expected to cross the International Date Line on February 12. 

Overnight stops are scheduled for New York, Honolulu, Sydney and Singapore. 

‘Significant’

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, described the moment Queen Anne began its world voyage as ‘significant.’ Queen Anne is the fourteenth ship in Cunard’s history to undertake a full world voyage – and the largest Cunard vessel to achieve a full circumnavigation of the globe. 

McAlister said, ‘It’s especially fitting that her first visit to the USA will be New York, a city that has long been at the heart of Cunard’s story. 

‘This voyage celebrates our heritage while offering guests the opportunity to explore the world in the style and luxury only Cunard can provide. Queen Anne truly reflects the evolution of our brand, and this journey will be an unforgettable experience for all on board.’

The 3,000-passenger ship will make its first American landfall in New York on January 17, a city with an enduring connection to Cunard that has welcomed Cunard ships and their passengers for longer than any other destination. 

Related:Cunard's Queen Elizabeth returns to Alaska in 2026

On board will be a variety of curated experiences, from entertainment to a sailaway party, with celebrations continuing throughout the voyage. Highlights include a special World Voyage cocktail party and a shoreside Gala Event – as well as talks from notable speakers, such as Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington, hypnotist Paul McKenna, actor Charley Boorman and former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash. 

The vessel returns to Southampton on April 27.