Cunard hosts Princess Anne on board Queen Anne in Liverpool

Princess Anne was welcomed on board Cunard’s Queen Anne in Liverpool on Wednesday in a visit described as a "moment of solidarity" with the city after a car ploughed into football supporters during title celebrations on Monday.

The Princess Royal joined city representatives, crew and guests in the Queens Room, as well as meeting with members of Cunard’s Women Officers Network.

The royal visit was planned to coincide with the 185^th anniversary of Cunard’s first transatlantic crossing, which started from the city.

Liverpool was also the base for the company’s headquarters for 128 years and was named as the godparent during Queen Anne’s naming ceremony there in May 2024.

The visit comes after Cunard cancelled the official opening of an exhibition curated by Mary McCartney about the line’s history because of the incident at Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade on May 26.

The exhibition is still open to the general public in the Royal Liver Building until June 17, after which it will be available to Cunard passengers on board its four-ship fleet.

Cunard president Katie McAlister said: “While this was intended to be a moment of celebration for Cunard’s 185th anniversary, instead it’s now a moment of solidarity with the city and our thoughts are with all those affected, and with the entire community at this time.

“Liverpool is not just where Cunard was founded — it’s where our story began. This great city, with its proud maritime history and strong sense of identity, has shaped Cunard from the very beginning. The docks, the river, and the people of Liverpool are all part of our heritage and remain central to who we are today.

“The bond between Cunard and Liverpool has grown over generations. It is built on shared values — resilience, pride, and a deep respect for tradition — and it continues to mean a great deal to us. We feel a strong connection to this city and are always proud to return.”