To mark the upcoming participation of the Queen Mary 2 in the celebrations of the United States' 250th anniversary, Cunard has launched a sweepstakes that will allow travelers to be part of another historic milestone for the company: the iconic ship's 450th transatlantic crossing, scheduled for November 2026.
The Queen Mary 2, the world's only regularly operating ocean liner that makes scheduled crossings between Southampton (United Kingdom) and New York (United States), will depart from Southampton on November 10, 2026, arriving in New York on November 17.
Until July 31, 2026, those interested can enter the draw for a chance to win a place for two on this historic voyage. The prize includes the cruise, flights, hotel accommodation in Southampton, and transfers to and from the port.
The announcement coincides with another significant moment for Cunard. July 4th marks the anniversary of the company's first transatlantic voyage, when the RMS Britannia sailed from Liverpool to Boston in 1840. That voyage inaugurated the first regular steamship service across the Atlantic and forever transformed international travel, trade, and communications.
Almost two centuries later, Cunard remains the only shipping company that offers regular transatlantic crossings aboard a real ocean liner, the Queen Mary 2.
“Transatlantic voyages form the foundation of Cunard’s rich heritage and remain one of the most iconic experiences in luxury travel,” said Liz Fettes, Cunard’s senior vice president of commercial operations for North America and Australasia. “As we prepare to participate in the celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to also celebrate the upcoming 450th transatlantic crossing of the Queen Mary 2. This milestone is a testament to 186 years of history, connections, and unforgettable journeys across the Atlantic.”.
On July 4, 2026, the port of New York will host the Sail4th 250 event, a celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence that will bring together the largest international fleet of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled.
The Queen Mary 2 and its passengers will enjoy a prime location to view the festivities, reinforcing Cunard's historic relationship with the United States. Between 1840 and 1923, it is estimated that one in five immigrants who arrived in the country traveled aboard Cunard ships.
Currently, the company operates a fleet of four ships: Queen Anne, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, keeping alive the tradition of great ocean voyages around the world.
The prize draw will remain open until July 31, 2026. Participants can register and consult the official rules on the Cunard website. In addition to the initial registration, there is the possibility of obtaining an additional entry by sharing a photograph from a previous trip with the company or by answering a survey about the experiences they most hope to enjoy on a future Cunard trip.
