Cunard has today announced an exciting partnership with Sail4th 250, the non-profit organisation responsible for coordinating celebrations in the Port of New York and New Jersey to mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
As part of the landmark event, Cunard’s flagship ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, will take centre stage in New York Harbour on July 3-4, 2026. Guests aboard the iconic vessel will enjoy an unparalleled vantage point for what promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
The six-day celebration, running from July 3-8, will showcase the largest international flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled. So far, 17 nations have committed their tall ships to the event, and the U.S. Navy has extended invitations to many more. Over 30 tall ships are expected to participate. In addition to the flotilla, the festivities will include public access to the tall ships, festivals, an exhibition of 18th-century historic documents, and a grand fireworks display over Manhattan.
With an anticipated audience of eight to ten million spectators lining the 15-mile shoreline of New York and New Jersey, the July 4 parade of ships is set to be one of the largest maritime events in history.
A Historic Collaboration
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating: “Cunard has a long and distinguished history with the United States, and we are proud to play a role in this momentous celebration. As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2 will offer guests an experience like no other — immersed 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.”
Queen Mary 2’s presence in New York Harbour continues Cunard’s rich legacy in transatlantic travel, a tradition that spans over 185 years. Guests onboard will have front-row seats to the historic flotilla, a dramatic military flyover, and a breathtaking fireworks finale illuminating the Manhattan skyline.
Chris O’Brien, President of Sail4th 250, also welcomed the collaboration: “The participation of the majestic Queen Mary 2 helps ensure that seafaring travellers can have first-class seats to the most spectacular event in the history of New York Harbour. Given Cunard’s storied history and indelible ties to the United States, we are pleased to have found the perfect seafaring partner for our nation’s historic milestone.”
Ross D. Levi, Executive Director and Vice President of the New York State Division of Tourism, Empire State Development, added: “The addition of Queen Mary 2 to Sail4th will only enhance the celebrations surrounding America’s 250th birthday. 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.”
Independence Day Spectacular Voyage
Cunard has announced a special Independence Day Spectacular Voyage, taking place from July 3-10, 2026. Following an extraordinary stay in New York, Queen Mary 2 will continue to Newport, Rhode Island, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, allowing guests to explore two of North America’s most charming and historic ports.
Prices for the voyage start from $2,350 per person, based on two guests sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.
For more information or to book a voyage, travellers can contact their Travel Advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com.
Travel Advisors seeking further details can visit OneSourceCruises.com, contact their Business Development Manager, or call Cunard at 1-800-528-6273.
