Liverpool is Godparent to Cunard's Queen Anne
Cunard chose Liverpool for the naming ceremony of their latest cruise ship, in recognition of the long-lasting bond they have with their spiritual home – and the party for the Queen Anne was unforgettable. Lucky residents of Liverpool’s waterfront properties had prime position to enjoy the events on 3 June 2024.
Historic Event at Pier Head
Thousands gathered at the Pier Head to welcome the 113,000 tonne ship that can house 3,000 guests and has 14 decks. She set off from Southampton on 3 May 2024 for her maiden voyage around the British Isles. Cunard was born in Liverpool in 1840 and it was the company’s headquarters until 1967 – and many of the crew are proud locals.
The naming ceremony is a significant event in maritime tradition, marked by the symbolic smashing of a 12-litre bottle of champagne against the hull of the ship – and the Queen Anne is the 249th vessel to carry the Cunard name. Five iconic Liverpudlians who symbolise the city’s creative, commercial and cultural success carried out the official naming: media guru Ngunan Adamu; entrepreneur Natalie Haywood; sports personality Katarina Johnson-Thompson; singer Melanie C; and musician Jayne Casey. The confetti that rained down on the crowd as the Queen Anne was officially named added to the festive atmosphere.
Colour and Spectacle
Residents and visitors were treated to performances from Andrea Bocelli (whose rendition of ‘Time to Say Goodbye’ drew a minute-long standing ovation), the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and local DJ, Lauren Lo Sung, hosted by Emma and Matt Willis in a unique, one-of-a-kind celebratory performance. In the evening, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic was joined by legendary Liverpudlian DJ Craig Charles for the unforgettable sailaway party as Queen Anne left after 10pm. The audience was transported into a world of funk and soul and kept dancing until the grand firework finale.
Life in the Core
Events like the naming ceremony of the Queen Anne highlight Liverpool's vibrant cultural scene and its strong community spirit. The city's ongoing regeneration projects, such as the £5.5 billion Liverpool Waters development, continue to attract investment and drive economic growth.
Lucky those who had a balcony-side view of this magnificent ceremony. If you weren’t there, then why not explore the myriad of opportunities this vibrant city has to offer. Invest in Liverpool—where history meets innovation, and where your investment can truly flourish.
