Cunard has introduced that it is going to be participating in celebrations for the United States of America’s 250th anniversary subsequent 12 months. The line has partnered with Sail4th 250, the non-profit group overseeing celebrations within the Port of New York and New Jersey for the event.
The collaboration will see the road’s flagship Queen Mary 2 — the world’s solely ocean liner — current on the coronary heart of the landmark occasion, providing visitors a once-in-a-lifetime vantage level for the unforgettable second in historical past.
The six-day centerpiece of America’s milestone anniversary will function the biggest worldwide flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled. Some 17 international locations have already dedicated their tall ships to take part, and the U.S. Navy has invited many others. Over 30 tall ships are anticipated. The celebration may also embrace festivals, public entry to the tall ships, an enormous fireworks show, and an exhibition of 18th-century historic paperwork.
Planners count on 8 to 10 million spectators to line the 15-mile New York/New Jersey shoreline to view the July 4th parade of tall ships and naval vessels, with occasions deliberate from July 3-8, 2026.
(Photo through Cunard)
“Cunard has a long and distinguished history with the United States as pioneers of Transatlantic travel, and we are proud to play a role in this momentous celebration,” stated Katie McAlister, president of Cunard. “As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2 will offer guests an experience like no other — immersing them in the excitement and grandeur of America’s 250th Independence Day. This is a truly unique opportunity to witness history in spectacular fashion, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of it.”
The collaboration displays Cunard’s deep-rooted connection to the U.S. and its wealthy maritime historical past. For over 185 years, Cunard ships have pioneered transatlantic journey, and in 2026 Queen Mary 2‘s presence in New York Harbor will add to that historical past.
The gathering of tall ships and naval vessels will proceed with a dramatic army flyover, culminating in a fireworks finale over the Manhattan skyline. Whether at anchor or positioned within the harbor, Queen Mary 2 will function the right setting for the event.
“The addition of Queen Mary 2 to Sail4th will only enhance the celebrations surrounding America’s 250th birthday,” stated Ross D. Levi, Executive Director/VP, NYS Division of Tourism, Empire State Development. “I LOVE NY is proud to support Sail4th’s efforts to create this once-in-a-lifetime event. We look forward to promoting this largest-ever international flotilla as part of the state’s unique America 250 activities so that visitors from around the globe can see for themselves how easy it is to love New York.”
Cunard’s Independence Day Spectacular Voyage will happen from July 3-10, 2026, providing visitors the prospect to be part of historical past. After a keep in New York, Queen Mary 2 will proceed to Newport, Rhode Island and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Prices begin at $2,350 per particular person for a balcony stateroom based mostly on double occupancy.
Are you interested by participating within the celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary in NYC subsequent 12 months? Have you ever taken a cruise on Queen Mary 2 or are you planning to quickly? Drop us an anchor beneath and tell us!
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