Cunard has marked the start of its 2026 world cruise season with a rare and celebratory moment, as two of its iconic ships – Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 – departed Southampton on the same day to begin separate global voyages. Fireworks lit up the harbor as both vessels set sail, underscoring the scale and prestige of Cunard’s long-standing world cruise tradition.
Queen Anne is sailing east on a journey that will take guests to 30 ports across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The itinerary includes several overnight stays in major global cities, such as Cape Town, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Los Angeles, allowing travelers extended time to explore each destination. The route is designed to blend cultural depth with marquee ports, offering a diverse world cruise experience.
Queen Mary 2, meanwhile, is heading west on a 108-night voyage that includes a transit of the Panama Canal and calls throughout the Americas, Australia, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Known for her transoceanic design and classic ocean liner heritage, Queen Mary 2 brings a different rhythm and atmosphere to the world cruise experience.
Together, the two voyages will circle the globe over a combined 225 nights. Both ships feature enrichment programs with expert speakers, including journalists, aviation professionals, and global affairs specialists, adding an educational layer to the journey.
Cunard confirmed that bookings remain open for its 2027 and 2028 world cruises aboard Queen Victoria, Queen Anne, and Queen Elizabeth, signaling continued strong demand for extended, destination-rich ocean travel.