Cunard's flagship cruise liner, Queen Mary 2, is scheduled to arrive in Liverpool on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, to commemorate a significant historical milestone. The visit marks the 185th anniversary of Cunard's first transatlantic crossing, which departed from the city in 1840, reinforcing the deep-rooted maritime connection between Liverpool and the world-renowned cruise line.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Visit: The Queen Mary 2's arrival celebrates the 185th anniversary of Cunard's inaugural transatlantic voyage from Liverpool.
- Arrival & Departure: The ship is expected to arrive on the evening of Wednesday, September 17, and depart on the evening of Friday, September 19.
- Public Events: Celebrations include a pop-up market, behind-the-scenes tours of the Cunard Building, and a pyrotechnic display upon departure.
- Voyage Details: The Liverpool stop is part of a 12-night British Isles cruise that began in Southampton.
A Landmark Maritime Celebration
The return of the Queen Mary 2 to the River Mersey is a key event in Liverpool's maritime calendar. The visit is specifically timed to honour the 185th anniversary of a pivotal moment in shipping history. In 1840, Cunard's first vessel, the Britannia, set sail from Liverpool, establishing a regular transatlantic mail and passenger service that would change global travel.
This long-standing relationship was formally recognised when Cunard was granted the Freedom of the City, an honour that acknowledges its significant role in Liverpool's heritage. The upcoming visit serves as a celebration of this enduring connection.
Cunard's Liverpool Legacy
Cunard Line was founded in 1840 and operated from Liverpool for nearly 130 years. The iconic Cunard Building, one of the city's 'Three Graces' at the Pier Head, served as the company's headquarters until 1967. This visit continues a tradition of Cunard ships returning to their spiritual home for major anniversaries.
The Queen Mary 2 is currently on a 12-night British Isles voyage, which departed from Southampton on September 14. Before arriving in Liverpool, the ship visited Cobh in southern Ireland. After its two-day stay in the city, it will continue its journey north to Oban, Scotland.
Arrival and Departure Schedule
Cunard has released a provisional schedule for the ship's arrival and departure. Spectators often gather along the coastline to watch the vessel make its way up the River Mersey. All timings are approximate and can be affected by weather and tidal conditions.
Expected Arrival Times: Wednesday, September 17
The ship is anticipated to be visible from the coastline in the early evening before berthing at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal.
- Formby: Approximately 7:15 PM
- Crosby: Approximately 7:40 PM
- New Brighton: Approximately 8:05 PM
- Swinging off Berth: Approximately 8:30 PM
- Alongside Berth: Approximately 9:00 PM
Expected Departure Times: Friday, September 19
The departure is planned for the evening and will be accompanied by a small celebration to mark the end of the visit.
- Depart Liverpool Terminal: Approximately 8:30 PM
- New Brighton: Approximately 8:50 PM
- Crosby: Approximately 9:15 PM
- Formby: Approximately 9:40 PM
Public Events and Activities
To celebrate the occasion, a series of events have been organised for both passengers and the public. These activities are designed to highlight the historic Cunard Building and the city's connection to the cruise line.
Did You Know? The Cunard Building is a Grade II* listed building and was designed as the central headquarters for the Cunard Steamship Company. It opened in 1917 and features Italian Renaissance and Greek Revival architectural styles.
Behind-the-Scenes Cunard Building Tours
For the first time, visitors will have the opportunity to join exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the Cunard Building. This ticketed event will grant access to areas not typically open to the public.
Highlights of the tour include the original luggage room, the secure first-class safe, and ornate, wood-panelled rooms that once served as offices for the company's executives. Spaces for these tours are limited and booking is required through the Liverpool City Council markets website.
Pop-Up Market in the Grand Arrivals Hall
The Grand Arrivals Hall of the Cunard Building will host a special pop-up market. This is the first time the historic hall, where first-class passengers once waited for their voyages, will be used for such an event.
The market will feature over 40 stalls showcasing local traders. Visitors can expect a variety of goods, including local food and drink, handmade crafts, and unique art. A small number of stalls may also be set up outside, weather permitting. The market is free to enter and will be open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both Thursday, September 18, and Friday, September 19.
Official Welcome and Farewell Display
An official ceremony is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 18, at 4:30 PM. A formal welcome will be extended to the ship's master, Captain Tomás Connery, and his senior officers. This event will recognise the significance of the anniversary and Cunard's Freedom of the City status.
"This visit is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the unique and historic bond between Cunard and the city of Liverpool, the company's spiritual home."
To conclude the two-day celebration, a brief pyrotechnic display is planned to coincide with the ship's departure. In partnership with the Liverpool Cruise Port, the display will light up the waterfront at approximately 8:30 PM on Friday, September 19, providing a memorable send-off for the Queen Mary 2 and her passengers.
About the Queen Mary 2
As Cunard's flagship, the Queen Mary 2 is one of the most recognisable ocean liners in the world. Launched in 2004, it was designed as a true transatlantic liner, built for the rigours of the North Atlantic crossing.
The ship has a gross tonnage of 149,215 and a length of 1,132 feet (345 metres). It can accommodate 2,691 passengers and 1,253 crew members. Onboard facilities include 15 restaurants and bars, five swimming pools, a casino, a ballroom, a theatre, and the first planetarium at sea. The visit offers Liverpool residents a chance to see this remarkable vessel up close.