Sarah Bretz, ContributorCunard welcomed Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal aboard Queen Anne during the ship’s visit to Liverpool on Tuesday, May 27th.
During the visit, The Princess Royal met with Cunard guests, crew, and city officials in the Queens Room. She was also introduced to members of the Cunard Women Officers Network, which includes women from the cruise brand’s maritime and hospitality teams.
The royal event was in celebration of Cunard’s 185th anniversary, its enduring bond with Liverpool, and the leadership of Queen Anne‘s captains Dave Hudson and Inger Thorhauge. Liverpool is central to Cunard’s history — it served as the departure point of the line’s first transatlantic crossing in 1940 and held its headquarters for 128 years. In 2024, the city was named Queen Anne‘s godparent during a naming ceremony at the Liverpool Waterfront.
“Liverpool is not just where Cunard was founded — it’s where our story began. This great city, with its proud maritime history and strong sense of identity, has shaped Cunard from the very beginning. The docks, the river, and the people of Liverpool are all part of our heritage and remain central to who we are today,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.
“The bond between Cunard and Liverpool has grown over generations. It is built on shared values — resilience, pride, and a deep respect for tradition — and it continues to mean a great deal to us. We feel a strong connection to this city and are always proud to return.”
Following the event, the cruise line officially opened its 185th anniversary “Sea of Glamour” exhibition at The Royal Liver Building, joined by Queen Anne‘s Icons — five Liverpudlian women chosen to represent the city. The exhibition showcases the glamour, grandeur, and cultural heritage of life at sea through Cunard’s long and storied history.
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