Cunard Line, renowned for its luxury cruise experiences, proudly announces the successful completion of the final sea trials for its latest addition, the Queen Anne. This state-of-the-art vessel is now gearing up for an exhilarating inaugural cruise season starting May 2024, under the expert guidance of Captain Inger Thorhauge, Cunard’s first female captain.
Triumphant Completion of Sea Trials
The Queen Anne, a testament to modern maritime engineering, emerged triumphant from a comprehensive 16-day testing phase in February. These trials, conducted to ensure the ship’s readiness for the high seas, included a series of exhaustive assessments ranging from full-speed maneuvers to the fine-tuning of its advanced navigation systems. Departing from the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice, the Queen Anne underwent detailed evaluations of its propulsion pods, bow thrusters, and stabilizers, alongside a thorough review of its sophisticated electronic systems. Captain Thorhauge expressed her delight at the ship’s performance, affirming its readiness with “flying colors.”
From Vision to Voyage: The Making of Queen Anne
The Queen Anne’s journey from concept to reality began with the visionary collaboration between Fincantieri’s esteemed shipbuilders and the innovative team at Carnival Corporation, Cunard Line’s parent company. Despite a pandemic-induced delay, construction commenced in 2019, marking the Queen Anne as the 249th vessel to carry the Cunard standard and the fourth in its current passenger fleet. As a Pinnacle-class vessel, it boasts a capacity for 3,000 passengers across its 113,000 gross tons, standing as a marvel of modern cruise design.
Inaugural Season Highlights
Queen Anne’s maiden voyage to Lisbon, Portugal, on May 3, 2024, kicks off a season of diverse itineraries. Post its maiden journey, the ship will set course for the Canary Islands, the Norwegian fjords, the Mediterranean’s sun-kissed shores, and the captivating landscapes of the British Isles and Northern Europe. Each destination promises an unparalleled exploration of beauty, culture, and history, from the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote to the historic depths of Tenerife and the rugged coasts of Norway.
A Summer of Discovery
As Queen Anne docks in Southampton, England, by late April 2024, anticipation for its 7-night maiden voyage to La Coruña, Spain, and Lisbon reaches its peak. The summer season will see the vessel navigating towards destinations known for their breathtaking beauty and cultural richness. The Norwegian fjord voyages in June, the Mediterranean leg, and the exploration of the British Isles and Northern Europe, are all meticulously planned to offer guests an unforgettable journey.
The Queen Anne represents a significant milestone for Cunard Line, blending luxury with adventure for its 2024 summer season. With Captain Thorhauge at the helm, this magnificent vessel is set to offer its guests an unmatched cruising experience, showcasing the beauty of the world’s most stunning destinations. As the Queen Anne readies for her series of inaugural voyages, the excitement among seasoned travelers and cruise enthusiasts continues to build, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Cunard’s storied legacy.
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