A photographic journey through maritime history
There’s something undeniably romantic about the golden age of ocean travel – the era of steamer trunks and evening gowns, when crossing the Atlantic was as much about the journey as the destination. This northern spring, Cunard invites visitors to step back into that world of glamour with Sea of Glamour, a major photography exhibition celebrating the cruise line’s remarkable 185-year legacy.
Opening on 28 May at Liverpool’s iconic Royal Liver Building, the exhibition showcases 185 carefully curated photographs that tell the story of luxury ocean travel from the 1900s to today. Under the artistic direction of celebrated British photographer Mary McCartney (daughter of Sir Paul McCartney), the collection weaves together rare archival images of Hollywood legends, musicians, and royalty with intimate moments captured by Cunard guests from around the globe.
Stories from around the world
The exhibition emerged from an extraordinary response to Cunard’s call for guest photographs – more than 1,000 images submitted by hundreds of passengers from six continents. These personal snapshots reveal the enduring magic of life aboard Cunard’s legendary ships: wedding ceremonies on deck, milestone anniversaries celebrated at sea, and intimate family moments framed by endless ocean horizons.
Reflecting on her curatorial process, McCartney – known for her intimate portraits of cultural icons – was struck by the sense of community that emerged from decades of guest stories.
“Glamour isn’t only found in images of royalty or Hollywood stars, but in the shared experiences of all Cunard passengers. I loved seeing the personal submissions – moments of joy, connection, and family milestones.”
Mary McCartney, British photographer.
The archival photographs offer glimpses into Cunard’s storied past – rare shots of Hollywood icons relaxing between film commitments, musicians finding inspiration at sea, and politicians enjoying respite from public life. These images sit alongside historic moments with British royalty, underscoring Cunard’s role as the unofficial carrier of choice for the world’s most discerning voyagers.
An immersive experience in Liverpool
The exhibition experience extends beyond traditional gallery walls. Visitors can immerse themselves in audio storytelling that brings guest narratives to life, while the striking “Sails of History” installation suspends actual ship sails mid-air throughout the Royal Liver Building. These suspended canvases serve as dynamic backdrops for the photographic collection, creating an environment that feels both museum-worthy and deeply personal.
A new chapter for the iconic cruise line
The timing couldn’t be more fitting. Cunard enters 2025 with four ships in simultaneous service for the first time since 1999, including the newly launched Queen Anne, which joined the fleet in May 2024. This expansion reflects the cruise line’s renewed commitment to luxury ocean travel at a time when discerning passengers are increasingly drawn to meaningful, unhurried journeys.
On the exhibition’s opening day, McCartney will capture a contemporary portrait featuring Cunard’s Queen Anne Icons – five accomplished Liverpudlian women including Spice Girl Melanie C, Olympic heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson, and cultural legend Jayne Casey. This modern moment will join the historical timeline, ensuring the exhibition captures both Cunard’s heritage and its ongoing evolution.
After its Liverpool debut, Sea of Glamour will embark on its own journey, sailing aboard the Cunard fleet to reach passengers and maritime enthusiasts worldwide. It’s a fitting tribute to a cruise line that has spent nearly two centuries proving that sometimes the most luxurious destination is the journey itself.
Sea of Glamour runs from May 28 through June 17, 2025, at The Royal Liver Building, Liverpool. Admission is free to the public.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
