The British Isles Festival Voyage

On this one-of-a-kind British Isles circumnavigation you’ll take your place in history, as the beginning of a new chapter for Cunard sets sail.

24 May – 7 June 2024, Queen Anne

In 2024, join us as we celebrate our newest ship, Queen Anne, on The British Isles Festival Voyage, her maiden trip around Great Britain and Ireland.

What's more, we will officially name our newest ship in a spectacular ceremony in Liverpool, set to start at 4pm on Monday ‌‌3 ‌‌‌‌June ‌‌‌2024.

Our hosts will be much‑loved UK TV personalities Matt and Emma Willis, who have recorded a special message ahead of this historic event.

Our hosts will be much‑loved UK TV personalities Matt and Emma Willis, who have recorded a special message ahead of this historic event.

Queen Anne's Naming Ceremony

Liverpool Pier Head, Monday ‌‌3 ‌‌‌‌June ‌‌‌2024
Home to Cunard Line until 1960, Liverpool holds a special place in our history, and a Cunard visit is always a spectacular occasion. On 3 June, as the world’s media awaits Queen Anne’s arrival into the Mersey, all eyes will be on Liverpool Pier Head, which will be alive with activity in the lead-up to a dazzling ceremony, set to start from 4pm.

We’re proud to announce that the distinguished Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts will be joining our hosts, Matt and Emma Willis, for a unique, one-of-a-kind celebratory performance.

Queen Anne guests sailing on this voyage will be invited to watch the ceremony from a dedicated viewing area ashore in the heart of the action. Of course, guests may prefer to join in the celebrations on board as the event is broadcast live throughout the ship.

Later in the evening, we’ll keep the celebrations going as we’re joined by more special guests, leading up to what’s likely to be one of Queen Anne’s biggest sailaway parties ever.

Please note, the naming ceremony and celebration timings are subject to change.

On this voyage

Be among the first to experience our new Queen on this very special voyage that showcases the best of Britain and Ireland's shores.

On board, experience an exclusive programme of dazzling entertainment featuring preeminent British and Irish performers, with legendary musician Midge Ure and West End and Broadway star Rachel Tucker both performing live.

You can also enjoy captivating ‘In conversation with’ Insights talks with former World Champion boxer Frank Bruno and Olivier award-winning actress Celia Imrie, and a number of other expert guest speakers are set to enlighten you with their knowledge of the rich heritage and natural wonders of the British Isles.

Or perhaps you’ll attend dazzling Gala Evenings and celebration dinners, created especially for this voyage to commemorate the occasion.

Discover Cunard’s spiritual home in Liverpool and explore the city's maritime heritage - and of course, experience the official naming ceremony for Queen Anne, a pivotal milestone in her seagoing career.

Marvel at Scotland's majestic Highland cliffs, charming villages, and historic castles during spectacular port calls. Maybe you’ll visit the world-famous Highland Park Whisky Distillery in Kirkwall or head into Edinburgh (pictured) from Newhaven and get lost in the magical winding streets of the iconic Scottish capital.

As you glide through the Inner Hebrides, the verdant Isle of May provides opportunities to spot grey seals, dolphins, and minke whales against a backdrop of lighthouses and ancient ruins. Further along the rugged cliffs of the storied Isle of Skye await, as does Bass Rock’s astonishing seabird colony hosting over 150,000 gannets. Cruise through the Irish Sea to charming Cobh’s classical Victorian architecture (pictured).

From bustling Belfast to the untamed Scottish coast, experience the richness and wonder of Britain and Ireland.

Special guests on board

Frank Bruno MBE

The legendary former World Champion boxer - now mental health campaigner - will discuss the highs and lows of his eventful life story during what promises to be an inspiring Insights talk on board.

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Celia Imrie CBE

Olivier award-winning actress Celia Imrie will provide a captivating Insights talk on board. Celia is well known for her appearances in much‑loved films including Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Mamma Mia Here We Go Again and Bridget Jones’s Diary.

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Midge Ure OBE

Accomplished musician and extraordinary entertainer Midge Ure will be performing live on board and hosting an Insights talk.

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Rachel Tucker

West End and Broadway actress Rachel Tucker will be performing live on board.

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Explore more from Cunard

Explore the British Isles

Sail past the ethereal beauty of the Scottish Isles or see the awe-inspiring and ancient cliffs of the Jurassic Coast.

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Event Voyages

Tailor-made to bring popular themes to life, these carefully curated voyages feature the crème de la crème when it comes to special guests and partnerships.

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Queen Anne

The next in a fine line, Queen Anne is the perfect blend of classic and contemporary, with the freedom to do as little or as much as you choose.

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