185th Anniversary Event Voyage

Relish your time at sea on this iconic Transatlantic route - a route sailed by Cunard ships for decades - and be treated to a host of unique events on Queen Mary 2. As well as the signature Cunard experiences that you can always count on (sparkling Gala Evenings. Afternoon Tea served by white gloved waiters. Cocktails inspired by seven of our most decorated Commodores, to name a few), on this celebratory crossing you’ll also find a programme of fascinating talks.

Hear captivating stories from maritime historians, some of which date back to when it all began in 1840. Learn more about the origins of our historic liners, from humble beginnings as a mail courier, to hosting some of Hollywood’s biggest names. And you’ll sail in utmost style as you do.

Internationally renowned maritime history author Chris Frame has been fascinated by Ocean Liners since his first voyage on Cunard’s QE2. He has published 17 acclaimed maritime history books alongside co-author Rachelle Cross. Today Chris is co-host of the popular podcast: The Big Cruise Podcast, and has attracted over 10 million video views on his YouTube channel. He is a regular maritime history commentator for news and documentaries worldwide, including the BBC, ABC, CNN, Sky News, Sunrise, A Current Affair and the UK’s Channel 5.

Chartered Engineer Stephen was appointed chief designer of Project Queen Mary and subsequently became Director of Project Management for the construction of the ship that became Queen Mary 2. As well as his OBE for Service to Shipping, Stephen has been celebrated with many prestigious awards, including The Royal Academy of Engineering's first Special Achievement Award in recognition of the success of Queen Mary 2.

In 1910 the unknown Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel set sail on a Transatlantic Voyage from Southampton as part of Fred Karno's famous music hall troupe. On this journey, Charlie and Stan shared a cabin and then spent two years together touring North America, with Stan as Charlie's understudy. They both went on to change the world of comedy forever.

Stan Laurel, however, is not mentioned in Charlie Chaplin's autobiography once. So, what happened?