Cunard's new ship Queen Anne embarks on maiden voyage from Southampton UK

   May 4, 2024 ,   Cruise Industry

Cunard's latest cruise ship has commenced her inaugural voyage from Southampton UK.

Queen Anne marks the company's first new vessel in 14 years and is one of four Cunard liners homeported in Southampton.

The maiden voyage, accommodating 3,000 passengers, sold out within minutes of booking opening.

Departing amidst a display of fireworks visible across Southampton Water, Queen Anne is currently en route to Lisbon, Portugal.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, reported a 25% increase in bookings since January, marking the strongest figures in a decade.

Traditionally, new Cunard ships are named by distinguished members of the Royal Family.

Previous vessels were named by Queen Elizabeth II, who named QE2 in 1967, Queen Mary 2 in 2004, and Queen Elizabeth in 2010. Queen Camilla christened Queen Victoria in 2007.

Ms. McAlister opted not to disclose the identity of the individual who will christen the 249th Cunard vessel at a ceremony in Liverpool on June 3rd, with the announcement scheduled just one week before the event.