Four Queens to Rule the Mersey

Cunard Announces Historic Fleet Reunion in Liverpool

In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the global maritime community, Cunard has officially announced that its entire fleet, all four Queens, will unite in Liverpool for the first time in history.

The landmark event is scheduled for 16 May 2028, but the ripples of the announcement are already being felt across the city’s waterfront this week. For the first time ever, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and the newest addition to the fleet, Queen Anne, will assemble in the River Mersey for a spectacular “Four Queens” celebration.

A Homecoming for the Fleet

While Cunard is now headquartered in Southampton, Liverpool remains its “spiritual home.” The company was founded here in 1840, and the iconic Cunard Building remains a cornerstone of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage waterfront.

The 2028 gathering is set to be the most significant maritime event in the city since the “Three Queens” visit in 2015, which attracted over one million spectators.

“Bringing our four Queens together on the Mersey for the first time will be a rare and incredibly special moment for Cunard,” said Katie McAlister, President of Cunard. “Liverpool is where our story began, and returning with the full fleet is a powerful celebration of that bond.”

What to Expect

The 2028 event will coincide with the 20th anniversary of Liverpool’s title as European Capital of Culture. The city is planning a year-long program of music and maritime festivals to surround the ships’ arrival.

Key highlights of the scheduled visit include:

• The Transatlantic Return: Queen Mary 2 will make a historic voyage directly from New York to Liverpool – the first eastbound arrival of its kind in over 60 years.
• A Full Fleet Salute: All four vessels will perform a synchronised manoeuvre in the Mersey, providing a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity for the crowds at Pier Head and the Wirral waterfront.
• Overnight Stays: Queen Anne is expected to remain in port overnight, allowing the city to glow under the lights of the world’s most famous liners.

Upcoming 2026 Visits

While the “Four Queens” event is the long-term crown jewel, Liverpool’s 2026 cruise schedule remains packed. Fans won’t have to wait until 2028 to see a Queen; Queen Anne is scheduled to make a solo return to the Mersey on 17 June 2026, continuing her tradition of visiting the city that officially named her in 2024.

City leaders expect the 2028 event to provide a massive boost to the local economy, solidifying Liverpool’s status as a premier global cruise destination. As Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, put it: “The four Queens meeting here is a testament to our rich heritage. We are ready to show the world that Liverpool is still the heart of maritime history.”

For those looking to be aboard for the 2028 reunion, Cunard has announced that “Four Queens Celebration” voyages are expected to go on sale later this year.

For more information or to book any Cunard cruise contact Deluxe Cruises today on +44 (0)1202 767926 or email us.