Princess Royal to Lead Cunard's 185th Anniversary Celebrations in Liverpool

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal will lead Cunard’s 185th anniversary celebrations in Liverpool on May 27, marking the luxury cruise line's deep maritime heritage and longstanding connection to the city. The festivities begin with the arrival of Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, followed by Princess Anne’s first official royal tour of the vessel, greeted by the British Army Band Catterick and the ship's captains. As part of the celebrations, Cunard will unveil its 'Sea of Glamour' exhibition at the Royal Liver Building, curated by photographer Mary McCartney and featuring 185 archival and newly contributed photos that capture the elegance and cultural legacy of life at sea. The event will also spotlight the Queen Anne Icons—five prominent Liverpudlian women, including Melanie C and Olympian Katarina Johnson-Thompson, chosen to represent Liverpool after the city was named Queen Anne’s godparent. The exhibition will be open to the public from May 28 to June 17, 2025, before touring aboard Cunard ships. Cunard's leadership emphasizes the special bond between the cruise line and Liverpool, calling the occasion a landmark tribute to its storied history.