Cunard has welcomed a new jewel to its fleet after a 14-year hiatus.
- The delivery ceremony took place at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice.
- Significant figures from both Italy and Cunard attended the prestigious event.
- Queen Anne will soon begin its maiden voyage from Southampton to Lisbon.
- Cunard cancelled a preliminary test cruise following a strategic review.
Cunard has recently taken a significant step in expanding its fleet, accepting the delivery of the Queen Anne, their first new ship in 14 years. This event marks a momentous occasion for the luxury cruise line, which officially took ownership during a ceremonial handover at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice on 19 April.
The ceremony, attended by notable Italian ministers Adolfo Urso and Luca Ciriani, as well as key figures from Cunard, highlighted the ship’s importance. Katie McAlister, president of Cunard; Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK; and Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, were present, underscoring the international collaboration involved in this venture.
The Queen Anne, proudly the 249th vessel to sail under the Cunard flag and the third ship constructed by Fincantieri for the line, is set to enhance the cruising experience with its upcoming departure for Southampton. It is scheduled to embark on a seven-night maiden voyage to Lisbon starting 3 May, further enhancing Cunard’s storied tradition of luxury travel.
Ahead of its much-anticipated debut, Cunard decided, following a careful review, to cancel a test cruise for travel agents that was set for 29 April. This decision indicates the company’s commitment to delivering an impeccable experience to its guests from the onset.
Queen Anne promises an enriching journey for its passengers, boasting amenities such as culinary experiences by Michel Roux and wellness packages developed by Harper’s Bazaar UK’s beauty experts. It also features a comprehensive selection of fitness and spa facilities, reinforcing Cunard’s dedication to luxury and passenger satisfaction. Highlighting British culture, the ship offers screenings in association with the British Film Institute.
Cunard’s Queen Anne is poised to redefine luxury cruising as it sets sail this May.
