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In a construction milestone for Cunard’s new Queen Anne, a distinctive red and black funnel has been lifted into place atop the cruise ship.
“The funnel lift is a significant milestone in the building process, and we are now one step closer to welcoming Queen Anne into service.”
Matt Gleaves – VP Commercial, Cunard, North America
The eye-catching feature has been an unmistakable hallmark of Cunard ships for over 150 years. Indeed, the famous red and black funnel design was the brainchild of Robert Napier. He was a shipyard owner who built some of Cunard’s earliest ships.
Known as the ‘funnel lift’, the construction milestone took place on 14 April 2023 at the Fincantieri ship yard in Italy. Giant cranes gently lifted the immense funnel 14-stories above the yard before crowning Queen Anne with the iconic symbol.
A proud heritage
Queen Anne will be the 249th vessel to sail under the Cunard banner. When launch in May 2024 she will join Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria in the luxury Cunard fleet. It will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four Queens at sea.
The 113,000-ton Queen Anne will be Cunard’s biggest cruise ship. The vessel will have room for 3,000 guests, which is 305 more than Queen Mary 2. However, like her sister ships Queen Anne will offer all the quintessential Cunard experiences. Guests can stay in Grills or Britannia accommodation, they can enjoy five-star dining as well as luxurious spa facilities and new entertainment venues.
Queen Anne’s maiden season
Queen Anne will make her maiden voyage on 4 May 2024 sailing roundtrip from Southampton, UK. Her inaugural season will include time spent in the Mediterranean and the Norwegian fjords.
For more information visit the Cunard website.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
