City of Liverpool Named as the Godmother of Cunard's Queen Anne

In honour of its enduring connection with the city, Cunard has named Liverpool as the godparent of its newest ship, the Queen Anne.

Honouring Cultural Contributions

Representing the city, Cunard has chosen five distinguished Liverpool residents to officially name the ship, recognising their cultural contributions, according to a press release.

Celebrating Liverpool Icons

The five Liverpudlians are Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool music and cultural icon Jayne Casey, and British Olympic heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson. Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool music and cultural icon Jayne Casey, and British Olympic heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson.

Cunard President's Remarks

The President of Cunard, Katie McAlister, said: "Liverpool is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we are therefore delighted and feel it very fitting that the City of Liverpool is the godparent to Queen Anne. It's a testament to the enduring relationship that connects Cunard and the city in which it was founded to the present day when we officially named our new ship on the Liverpool Waterfront, in front of the Cunard Building. We are equally delighted to have our five chosen Liverpool icons represent the city in the ceremony. All remarkable in their own right, they have inspired generations and collectively capture the essence of the city that has shaped global culture."

Liverpool City Council's Pride

The Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council, Andrew Lewis, said: "It's an incredible honor for the City of Liverpool to be chosen as the Godparent of Queen Anne. This city shares a treasured bond with Cunard dating back to 1839 when we were the original home of the world-famous line. The naming ceremony was a magnificent showpiece that once again cast Liverpool into the limelight, and we are so proud to be forever entwined with Queen Anne as she sails the world. We will always cherish our long-standing relationship with Cunard."

Historic Connection

Liverpool is the birthplace of Cunard, where its first transatlantic voyage set sail 184 years ago in July 1840. The city also served as the company's headquarters for 128 years.