Cunard has announced that Liverpool will host the spectacular Naming Ceremony for its newest cruise ship, Queen Anne.
Taking place on 3rd June this year, the milestone event will be held on the world-famous Mersey waterfront at Liverpool during a celebratory “lap of honour” voyage around the British Isles. Expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators to various vantage points, a live global broadcast will ensure that the eyes of the world fall on this momentous Cunard event.
Alongside an impressive line-up of unforgettable live performances, hosting Queen Anne’s Naming Ceremony will be none other than the power couple of Busted musician, Matt Willis, and his TV presenter wife, Emma Willis.
“We’re delighted to be part of such a fantastic occasion and can’t wait to join everyone in Liverpool for an exciting and action-packed day, full of surprises and celebrations. Mersey waterfront will be brought to life on June 3rd, as world famous entertainers are set to put on a spectacular show. It’s going to be a day to remember, and we can’t wait to welcome the fourth Queen to the iconic Cunard fleet.”
Matt and Emma Willis
Set to arrive on the Mersey just after sunrise on the day of the Naming Ceremony, plans are currently being made for Queen Anne’s sailing into Liverpool during the exclusive 14-night voyage.
This exclusive British Isles Festival Voyage will depart from Southampton on 24th May 2024, with maiden calls at Edinburgh (South Queensferry), Invergordon, Greenock, Belfast, and Liverpool. In Liverpool, guests sailing on the voyage will be able to join the Naming celebrations before a spectacular, late evening departure bound for Cobh- followed by her return to Southampton.
“Cunard has an incredible bond with the city of Liverpool. It is where our founder Sir Samuel Cunard began his transatlantic line in 1840, so what better place to officially name our new ship than somewhere that holds so many special memories? Queen Anne is the next in a fine line for our brand and she will be bursting with breath-taking moments around every corner, evolving our core values of luxury, sophistication, and glamour. Liverpool is known the world over as Cunard’s spiritual home and we are all so excited for the city to see Queen Anne up close on her maiden call.”
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard
As Cunard’s spiritual home, her arrival into Liverpool acts as a special salute to the city where the cruise line’s pioneering transatlantic service, and passenger shipping itself, was launched in 1840. Liverpool also houses the iconic Cunard Building which forms the centrepiece of the Three Graces.
“It’s a huge honour for Liverpool to be chosen as the location for the official naming of Queen Anne. This is yet another prestigious, international event taking place in our city, casting Liverpool into the limelight once again and showcasing our enviable maritime offer. The naming ceremony is set to be a majestic sight and I’m sure it will attract huge crowds to the waterfront who want to be part of this unique moment in ours and Cunard’s history.”
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council
Further details of timings, activities, and spectator information for Queen Anne‘s highly anticipated visit to Liverpool will be published in the coming months.
