Cunard’s Queen Anne Makes Australian Debut

Today, Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne, arrived to Australia for the first time as part of her maiden 107-day World Voyage.

Sailing into Sydney is a bucket-list moment for cruise enthusiasts around the world, and today, 2,610 guests aboard Queen Anne ticked this item off. Among them are 1,067 guests sailing the entire World Voyage—including 39 proud Australians.

Introducing Cunard's new Queen

As Cunard's first new ship in 14 years, Queen Anne redefines ocean travel with 13 expansive decks, 15 exciting dining venues—including exquisite dishes curated by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux—and elegant accommodations for up to 3,000 guests in modern Staterooms and opulent Grills Suites.

Creative director Adam Tihany led the design of Queen Anne, orchestrating a team of world-class designers to imagine a ship that reflects Cunard's rich art-deco heritage while embracing modern elegance.

The ship takes onboard entertainment to new heights with innovative venues like the Bright Lights Society, an intimate cabaret-style experience. Queen Anne also redefines wellness at sea, offering plant-based cuisine, sustainably sourced produce, and a bespoke fitness program.

Queen Anne's Australian calls

Queen Anne will be alongside Circular Quay overnight and depart Sydney on Saturday, 1 March at 5pm; Queen Anne will visit further Australian ports including Brisbane, the Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, and Darwin, injecting upwards of AUD$11 million into the local economies.

The ship will continue her World Voyage to Bitung (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines) and Hong Kong building on Cunard's legacy as the pioneer of world cruises since 1922; bringing together travellers from all parts of the world and reflecting the brand's dedication to fostering international connections and cultural understanding—values that resonate more than ever in today's world.

Sydney, 1 March 2025 - Today, in a historic moment, Queen Anne, Cunard’s first new ship in 14 years was officially welcomed to Australia with a vibrant British Garden Party on board, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

Welcomed to Sydney with Dazzling British Garden Party

Queen Anne was flanked by the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House as a grand ceremony unfolded on board to mark her first ever visit down under as part of her maiden 107-day World Voyage.

Among the special guests were three exceptional everyday women named Anne, each nominated by Australians for their unwavering dedication to others—whether supporting children, the vulnerable, the sick, or animals. Honoured as ‘Deserving Annes’, they were invited by Cunard to be celebrated for their remarkable contributions to their communities. During their time on board, they experienced the royal treatment, enjoying indulgent spa packages, private butler service, exclusive dining, and world-class entertainment.

Cunard President Katie McAlister said the cruise line had a deep connection with Australia that has spanned a century, and it was fitting to mark Queen Anne’s inaugural visit by recognising and celebrating inspiring women who embody the spirit of Cunard.

“The maiden arrival of our magnificent new ship Queen Anne to Sydney Harbour builds on our rich Australian legacy and marks another historic moment for Cunard – one that started with our first World Voyage that included Australia in 1925,” Katie McAlister said.

Introducing Cunard’s new Queen

As Cunard’s first new ship in 14 years, Queen Anne redefines ocean travel with 13 expansive decks, 15 exciting dining venues—including exquisite dishes curated by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux—and elegant accommodations for up to 3,000 guests in modern Staterooms and opulent Grills Suites.

The design of Queen Anne was led by creative director Adam Tihany who orchestrated a team of world-class designers to imagine a ship that reflects Cunard’s rich art-deco heritage while embracing modern elegance.

The ship takes onboard entertainment to new heights with innovative venues like the Bright Lights Society, an intimate cabaret-style experience. Queen Anne also redefines wellness at sea, offering plant-based cuisine, sustainably sourced produce, and a bespoke fitness program.

Queen Anne’s Australian calls

After departing Sydney today at 5pm, Queen Anne will visit further Australian ports including Brisbane, the Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, and Darwin injecting upwards of AUD$11 million into the local economies.

The ship will continue her World Voyage to Bitung (Indonesia), Manila (Philippines) and Hong Kong building on Cunard’s legacy as the pioneer of world cruises since 1922; bringing together travellers from all parts of the world and reflecting the brand’s dedication to fostering international connections and cultural understanding—values that resonate more than ever in today’s world. 

For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com.