Queen Anne departs for historic maiden world voyage

This is the moment Queen Anne embarked on her historic 107-night maiden world voyage from Southampton, marking a new chapter in Cunard’s distinguished history. Queen Anne becomes the 14^th ship in Cunard’s illustrious history to undertake a full world voyage and will also be the largest Cunarder to achieve a full circumnavigation of the globe.

Spectators gathered across the city to witness Queen Anne’s 9pm departure last night (9 January), which was celebrated with a dazzling fireworks display. Those watching were lucky enough to see Queen Victoria set sail at the same time too, embarking on her American Adventure. 

Queen Anne will make her first American landfall in New York on 17 January, a city that has an enduring connection to Cunard and has welcomed Cunarders and their guests longer than any other destination.

For colleagues, a World Voyage is an incredible opportunity to explore the globe.

“My favourite port on the last World Voyage was Bitung, Indonesia – we were welcomed like the biggest superstars! I had a fantastic lunch with Laksa, Nasi Goreng and soft drinks. I totally enjoyed the amazing flavours of the local cuisine.”  

“What makes World Voyage a unique experience for me is I get to see a lot of places, meet different guests, and our loyal guests many of whom I know from previous years. I travel and work while exchanging, cultural experiences with new friends, colleagues, and guests. Making memories and broadening my horizons!”

Slawomir, Bartender

“World voyage is so unique experience for me because I visit those ports which we don’t do often, from one part of the globe, we sail to the other part of the globe, where I see the different cultures, some amazing cities.

“My favourite World Voyage port was Suva, Fiji. The beaches are fantastic, local people are amazing and so welcoming. Also the food was great and the coconut water was so fresh.

“Sea days always stay great for me because of nice warm weather with calm seas. I really enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.”

Manzoor, 2nd Bosun

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: 

“This is a significant moment for Cunard as Queen Anne begins her maiden world voyage. 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.”

Over 107 nights, Queen Anne will call at 30 different ports across 18 countries. Highlights of the voyage include iconic calls to Miami, San Francisco, the Panama Canal, Honolulu, Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong and more. Guests will also cross the International Date Line on 12 February, experiencing the rare phenomenon of ‘jumping through time’.

On board, guests will enjoy a variety of curated experiences, including world-class entertainment and a spectacular sail away party, with celebrations continuing throughout the voyage. Highlights will include a special World Voyage cocktail party and a shoreside Gala Event – as well as enriching talks from notable speakers, such as Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE, hypnotist Paul McKenna, actor Charley Boorman and former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash.