Queen Anne officially joined Cunard’s iconic fleet in Italy today (19 April) marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.
The 3,000-guest ship was handed over during a traditional ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice ahead of her seven-day maiden voyage which departs Southampton on 3 May.
Queen Anne is the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag. Weighing in at 114,000-tons and spanning 14 decks, she will offer travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than any other previous Cunard ship.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We are so excited to welcome Queen Anne to our fleet as she completes a remarkable quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria – marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.
“We are now fully focused on readying her to welcome guests for her maiden voyage on 3 May before she embarks on an historic British Isles Festival Voyage, including a momentous Naming Ceremony in Cunard’s spiritual home of Liverpool on 3 June.”
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, added: “This beautiful and iconic ship testifies the longstanding partnership between our two companies, underscoring our shared commitment to excellence and tradition in the maritime industry.”