Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 Takes Centre Stage During America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration in New York Harbour

British luxury cruise line Cunard marked a landmark moment today as the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, took centre stage in New York Harbour for Sail4th 250, the centrepiece of the United States’ 250th Independence Day celebrations.

Queen Mary 2 at Sail4th 250
Cunard’s flagship **Queen Mary 2**, the world’s only ocean liner, took centre stage in **New York Harbour** during the United States’ **250th Independence Day celebrations**. - Anchored in a prime position, the ship offered guests front-row views of the **largest gathering of tall ships and naval vessels ever seen in New York City**. - NBC’s *TODAY* broadcast live from the ship, with Jenna Bush Hager reporting during the festivities. - The **International Parade of Sail** featured more than 100 vessels, including 47 tall ships from 20 nations, sailing past the Statue of Liberty. - The **International Naval Review** showcased 37 U.S. and allied naval ships, formally acknowledged by a Navy vessel. - A **military flypast** led by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels included over 150 aircraft, joined by the UK’s Red Arrows. - The day concluded with a **spectacular fireworks display** over Manhattan.

A Historic Connection
The celebration carried special meaning for Cunard: - On **4 July 1840**, Cunard’s first ship, *RMS Britannia*, departed Liverpool for Boston, launching the world’s first regular transatlantic steamship service. - Between 1840 and 1923, **one in five immigrants** to North America arrived aboard a Cunard ship. - Cunard has called at the Port of New York **every year since 1847**, longer than any other port in its history.

Voices from the Celebration
- **Katie McAlister, President of Cunard**: “Queen Mary 2 is an iconic ship, and she represents the transatlantic story itself. To have her at the heart of Sail4th 250 on such a significant day felt incredibly special.” - **Chris O’Brien, President of Sail4th 250 New York**: “The sight of this magnificent ocean liner amidst all the pageantry created indelible memories for a new generation.”