Queen Mary 2 to visit Liverpool next week for Cunard anniversary
Liverpool is preparing to celebrate Cunard’s 185th anniversary with a programme of events coinciding with the arrival of Queen Mary 2 on Wednesday 17 September.
The vessel will stay alongside Liverpool Cruise Port for two nights, with activities taking place on Thursday 18 and Friday 19 September to mark the milestone. The visit recognises Liverpool as the birthplace of Cunard and recalls the city’s role in the naming of Queen Anne last year, when a city was chosen for the first time instead of a single godparent.
It also marks 10 years since Cunard was granted the Freedom of the City, awarded in 2015 during the Three Queens event that attracted over one million people to the River Mersey.
Highlights include a civic reception at Liverpool Town Hall at 4.30pm on Thursday, welcoming Captain Tomás Connery and senior officers. Guided tours of the Cunard Building will take place across both days, with access to the luggage room, first-class safe and original wood-panelled rooms. Spaces are limited and bookings can be made via liverpool.gov.uk/markets.
A pop-up Liverpool Market will run inside the Grand Arrivals Hall of the Cunard Building from 10am to 5pm on both days, featuring more than 40 stalls of food, drink, crafts and art. Entry is free.
On Friday evening the ship will depart at around 8.30pm, with a short pyrotechnic display planned in partnership with Liverpool Cruise Port to mark the occasion.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:
“Liverpool and Cunard share a bond that spans nearly two centuries – a relationship built on heritage, pride and unforgettable moments. From the spectacular Three Queens event in 2015 to the historic naming of Queen Anne last year, our city has consistently played a central role in Cunard’s story.
“This year, as we celebrate Cunard’s 185th anniversary, we’re proud to open the doors of the iconic Cunard Building to the public like never before. These guided tours offer a rare glimpse into the building’s hidden history allowing visitors to step into the legacy of transatlantic travel and Liverpool’s maritime past. This celebration is not only a tribute to our shared history, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to future collaborations with Cunard.”
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said:
“Liverpool will always be the spiritual home of Cunard and it is wonderful to be back with Queen Mary 2 to mark our 185th anniversary. So many of our proudest moments are tied to this city, from Britannia’s first sailing to the naming of Queen Anne, and it feels very special to be celebrating together once again.”
Culture Liverpool’s Head of Operations, Angie Redhead, said:
“Cunard visits are more than just celebrations – they’re vital opportunities to showcase Liverpool’s identity, strengthen key relationships, and create unforgettable memories for residents and visitors alike.
“Our special partnership with Cunard has delivered some of the most iconic moments in the city’s recent history, and this anniversary allows us to build on that legacy. By opening up the Cunard Building for guided tours and markets, we’re inviting people to step inside a space that has shaped Liverpool’s maritime story, whilst our pop-up market will showcase local makers, bakers, artists and artisans.
“These kinds of events help us foster civic pride, drive tourism, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations that benefit the city both culturally and economically.”
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