Festivities at Fincantieri's Marghera for Queen Anne keel-layingFestivities at Fincantieri's Marghera for Queen Anne keel-laying

The master of Queen Anne, Capt. Inger Thorhauge, was the guest of honor, joining the Cunard and Carnival UK leadership team and Fincantieri officials.

Two coins — one new, one historic

A specially commissioned solid silver Queen Anne ship coin and an original 18th-century coin from the reign of Queen Anne were welded into the keel by Thorhauge.

The coins are welded into the keel

'We’re thrilled to celebrate this exciting construction milestone for Queen Anne,' said Matt Gleaves, VP commercial for Cunard in North America and Australasia. 'Over the last three years, world-leading designers have worked with master shipbuilders at Fincantieri to design a ship that showcases our position as a world-famous luxury brand across all continents.

'Queen Anne will be enjoyed for many generations to come, and we look forward to welcoming her to our fleet.'

Entering service in early 2024

Queen Anne is scheduled to enter service at the beginning of 2024, joining Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth.