As Cunard celebrates a landmark year in maritime history, the iconic luxury cruise line invites travelers to enter a new sweepstakes for a chance to experience one of its most significant voyages to date: the 450th Transatlantic Crossing of the legendary Queen Mary 2.
Timed with major global celebrations, including America’s 250th anniversary, Cunard is preparing to take part in Sail4th 250 this July in New York Harbor, where Queen Mary 2 will offer guests a front-row experience of the historic festivities. The event will feature the largest international flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled, reinforcing Cunard’s long-standing connection with transatlantic travel and U.S. history.
To mark this occasion, Cunard has officially launched a limited-time sweepstakes running now through July 31, 2026, giving participants the opportunity to win an extraordinary journey aboard Queen Mary 2’s milestone crossing. The winning prize includes two places aboard the November 10–17, 2026 sailing from Southampton to New York, along with return flights, hotel accommodation in Southampton, and ground transfers.
The voyage celebrates the 450th Transatlantic Crossing of the world’s only ocean liner still offering regularly scheduled crossings between Europe and the United States. The experience revives the elegance of the golden age of ocean travel, combining heritage, luxury, and modern sophistication.
“Transatlantic travel is the foundation of Cunard’s rich heritage and remains one of the most iconic experiences in luxury travel today,” said Liz Fettes, Senior Vice President, Commercial, North America and Australasia at Cunard. “As we prepare to participate in America’s 250th anniversary celebration, it feels especially meaningful to also celebrate Queen Mary 2’s upcoming 450th crossing. This milestone reflects 186 years of history, connection, and unforgettable voyages across the Atlantic.”
Cunard’s legacy traces back to its first transatlantic crossing in 1840, when RMS Britannia departed Liverpool for Boston, launching the world’s first scheduled transatlantic steamship service. Since then, the brand has remained a defining force in ocean travel, shaping global commerce, migration, and cultural exchange. It is estimated that one in five immigrants to the United States between 1840 and 1923 traveled aboard Cunard ships.
Today, Cunard continues its tradition of refined ocean travel with a modern fleet including Queen Anne, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, and Queen Victoria, offering voyages across the globe while preserving its historic transatlantic route.
Pictures: Cunard.
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