Princess Anne celebrates Cunard's legacy with Queen Anne in Liverpool!

Princess Anne celebrates Cunard's legacy with Queen Anne in Liverpool!

Princess Anna, the Princess Royal, visited the MS Queen Anne in Liverpool on May 27, 2025, a significant event that highlighted Cunard's deep history and connection to the city. Liverpool, birthplace of the first transatlantic crossing in May 1840, this year celebrates the 185th anniversary of the Cunard Line, which was headquartered in the city for 128 years. The city was recently named Queen Anne's godfather city, further strengthening the bond between Cunard and Liverpool.

During her visit, the Princess met with city officials, crew and guests in the Queens Room. In their speech, those present highlighted the importance of the historic connection between Cunard and Liverpool. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, emphasized solidarity with the city and described Liverpool as an indispensable part of the company's heritage and identity.

Insight into the history of Cunard

Cunard's roots go back to Samuel Cunard, a Nova Scotia entrepreneur who revolutionized transatlantic travel in 1839. He founded the British and North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company, which established the first regular steamship service across the Atlantic. On July 4, 1840, the RMS Britannia departed Liverpool, taking ten days to arrive on schedule in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The RMS Britannia was Cunard's first ship and marked the beginning of a successful era. Within a year, Cunard expanded its fleet to four ships and offered the first scheduled weekly service across the Atlantic. Passenger lists from this period provide valuable insight into the lives of the travelers, including Sir Samuel Cunard and writer Charles Dickens, who are documented on these historic journeys.

Special exhibition “Sea of ​​Glamour”

Princess Anne's visit coincided with the opening of the special exhibition Sea of ​​Glamour, which features 184 images by Cunard, illustrating the long tradition of cruising and its connection to the city of Liverpool. This exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the fascinating history of Cunard and transatlantic travel up close.

The combination of tradition and innovation that characterizes Cunard, as well as Liverpool's dedicated support, demonstrates the commitment to preserving and passing on an important maritime history.