Cunard: Christening Ceremony for Queen Anne
The christening ceremony for Cunard’s new ship, Queen Anne, has just concluded in Liverpool, amidst official celebrations, unforgettable performances, and distinguished guests.
It all began in Liverpool in May 1840 when Cunard‘s first transatlantic crossing took place. The love and affection for this city from the community unite its heritage and innovation, and for this reason, the company has named Liverpool as the godmother of the new ship, marking a lasting bond.
Queen Anne – Liverpool
Queen Anne cerimonia
In a brilliant atmosphere, Queen Anne made her entrance into the city on June 3 at 7:00 AM, marking a new chapter in luxury cruises, celebrated by tens of thousands of people gathered at the Waterfront. The ceremony opened with a unique performance by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, followed by the iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
Andrea Bocelli
To represent the ship Queen Anne, five distinguished women were chosen, each of whom has made a significant contribution to culture at a local, national, or international level. They include former Spice Girl and author Melanie C (originally from Liverpool, with generations of her family working at the port), broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool’s musical and cultural legend Jayne Casey, and British Olympic heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson.
cerimonia Queen Anne
“Liverpool is my hometown and has always been a place of great pride and inspiration for me. The support and encouragement I received from the local community have been crucial in my journey. Through the KJT Academy, I have provided opportunities to aspiring athletes from state schools and diverse ethnic communities, working alongside the Liverpool FC Foundation to deliver accessible community athletic programs,” commented Katarina Johnson-Thompson, three-time British Olympic heptathlete.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, stated: “I would like to thank our Liverpool icons, these extraordinary women, for representing the city and taking part in this historic ceremony, and the people of Liverpool for once again opening your hearts and welcoming Cunard and Queen Anne.”
The champagne bottle was ceremoniously launched, shattering against the ship’s hull, a sign of good luck for the ship and its crew. The ceremony concluded with Andrea Bocelli’s unforgettable performance of two of his iconic songs, including “Time to Say Goodbye.”
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