Queen Mary 2 in NYC for the USA’s 250th Anniversary
In 2026, Cunard’s historic luxury flagship, Queen Mary 2, will be at the heart of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence, hosting a landmark event in New York Harbor.
This prestigious involvement stems from a partnership between Cunard, the renowned British luxury cruise line, and Sail4th 250, the non-profit organization responsible for the official celebrations of this national milestone.
Queen Mary 2
Founded in 1840, Cunard is one of the oldest and most prestigious shipping companies in the world, with a longstanding tradition in transatlantic travel and the delivery of exceptional experiences. This year, the company celebrates its 185th anniversary with exclusive events ashore and special cruises. Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner still in service, stands as a symbol of Cunard’s historical excellence. Her presence in the heart of New York Harbor from July 3 to July 8, 2026, will offer guests a privileged view of one of the largest gatherings of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled—an unparalleled fusion of history, culture, and spectacle.
The event is expected to attract between eight and ten million spectators along the coasts of New York and New Jersey. More than thirty tall ships from seventeen nations will participate, joined by additional naval units invited by the United States Navy. The celebrations will feature festivals, public ship tours, a visually stunning fireworks show, and an exhibition of 18th-century historical documents.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, emphasizing Cunard’s long and prestigious relationship with the United States as a pioneer of transatlantic travel. She expressed the company’s pride in offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience to mark this extraordinary anniversary, immersing them in the excitement and grandeur of America’s Independence Day. She described the event as a unique opportunity to witness history unfold in a spectacular setting.
Halifax
New York
The collaboration with Sail4th 250—organizing internationally significant events in the ports of New York and New Jersey since 2020—aims to spotlight the role of seamanship and naval heritage in the 250th-anniversary celebrations. Chris O’Brien, President of Sail4th 250, remarked that Queen Mary 2’s involvement ensures “a front-row seat at the most spectacular maritime event in New York Harbor’s history” for sea travelers. Ross D. Levi, Executive Director of the New York State Division of Tourism, noted that the initiative helps make the celebration a global event, capable of attracting visitors from all over the world.
Queen Mary 2 will also headline a special cruise called the Independence Day Spectacular Voyage, running from July 3 to July 10, 2026. This extraordinary experience offers guests not only the opportunity to witness America’s iconic Independence Day event from the heart of New York but also to explore some of North America’s most captivating historic ports. Planned stops include Newport, Rhode Island—famous for its elegance and architectural heritage—and Halifax, Nova Scotia, a city rich in maritime history and cultural significance.
This cruise represents a unique opportunity to embark on a journey that blends history, culture, and celebration, allowing travelers to enjoy unforgettable moments aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, the last true ocean liner still in operation. In addition to enjoying a prime location during the Hudson River festivities, guests will experience Cunard’s refined hospitality and explore two emblematic destinations of North American heritage—enhancing their voyage with meaningful and inspiring encounters.
Newport
With four ships currently in service, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and the brand-new Queen Anne, which entered service in May 2024, Cunard continues to affirm its position as a global leader in luxury cruising, offering unforgettable experiences that combine elegance, fine dining, and curated entertainment.
This historic event in New York Harbor perfectly blends tradition and innovation, celebrating not only a major national anniversary but also the central role of Cunard and maritime heritage in the cultural and tourism fabric of the modern world.
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