Cunard Names Liverpool as Godparent of Queen Anne

Cunard has revealed that the City of Liverpool will serve as the Godparent to its newest ship, Queen Anne, in celebration of its unique connection to the city.

Originating from Liverpool, where Cunard embarked on its inaugural transatlantic voyage in July 1840, the city has been intertwined with the company’s history, serving as its headquarters for 128 years. The affection and enthusiasm of the Liverpool community for Cunard are unmistakably evident, particularly when one of its ships arrives on the Mersey, drawing immense crowds and celebrations.

In a tribute to this historical city, Cunard has appointed five prominent Liverpool figures to stand in for the city and bestow the official name on Queen Anne.

These eminent women, chosen for their roles in enhancing Liverpool’s cultural landscape, mirror the spirit and vision of Queen Anne for Cunard. Their illustrious backgrounds range across different areas of culture and achievement, both on a local and global scale. The group includes Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community activist Ngunan Adamu, culinary innovator Natalie Haywood, the influential music and cultural figure Jayne Casey, and celebrated British Olympian heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thomson, all united by their Liverpool heritage.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said:

“Liverpool is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we are therefore delighted and feel it very fitting that the City of Liverpool is the godparent to Queen Anne. It’s testament to the enduring relationship that connects Cunard and the city in which it was founded to the present day when we officially named our new ship on the Liverpool Waterfront, in front of the Cunard Building.”

“We are equally delighted to have our five chosen Liverpool icons represent the city in the ceremony. All remarkable in their own right, they have inspired generations and collectively capture the essence of the city that has shaped global culture.”