I was lucky enough to attend a magical event for travel press and agents back on October 18, 2023, when Cunard introduced elements of their newest ship, Queen Anne. This stunningly beautiful celebratory event at the company’s former NYC offices 25 Broadway – now known as Cipriani 25 Broadway. Unveiling art by contemporary artwork that will appear on board and spotlighting a new entertainment venue, the iconic cruise brand provided guests with an immersive introduction to this new vessel, their first in 13 years. There was even a beautiful step and repeat with both the Cunard and Queen Anne’s logos on it and a professional photographer to snap party guests. Lastly, Cipriani’s food including an extensive array of seafood was the icing on the cake—they know how to make any occasion special!
Alan Cumming dazzled the audience by performing with a cabaret-style set, bringing the new intimate entertainment venue Bright Lights Society to life. His performance included hysterically funny banter including some about cruising (Cummings is a veteran of the Cunard lines.) The name Bright Lights Society refers to Cunard’s heritage, as theirs was the first ocean liner to use electric lights. Alan will be sailing as part of Cunard’s onboard Insights program on Queen Mary 2’s December 8th crossing.
Another highlight of the evening was a contemporary art exhibit displaying new pieces for the Queen Anne which will have the largest curated art collection at sea. Created by up-and-coming artists, the display is part of the 4,300-piece collection onboard Queen Anne. Artists included photographer Michael James O’Brien, Canadian artist Eric Louie, Brooklyn textile artist Shradha Kochhar, and London-based artist Tommy Camerno. The artists were on hand to answer guests’ questions about their unique pieces!
Cunard President Katie McAlister (pictured here with Alan Cummings) said from an onstage podium: “This evening is a full circle moment for the company as we come together at this historic, magnificent building, which bridges our 183- year historic legacy with the modern era of ocean travel. Our new ship, Queen Anne, will pay homage to her royal namesake, renowned for her dedication to the arts and innovative spirit; as such, the ship will usher in a new era for Cunard as we introduce new experiences for our guests, complementing our signature, timeless style.” McCallister followed her speech up with a toast to the new ship with all the guests joining in.
Queen Anne will launch into service in May 2024. The 113,000-ton vessel will have 14 deck and 15 dining venues, holding up to 3,000 guests. In her maiden season, Queen Anne will be sailing in Europe with itineraries including the Canary Islands, British Isles, Norwegian Fjords, the Western Mediterranean, and more. This is the first time in 25 years that Cunard has four ships at sea and the first time that they will have a female captain!
Guests at the Queen Anne preview party got to see photos of the different features of the mighty new ship including some of the art deco inspired dining room (as pictured above). For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, contact your travel advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.
