The history of Queen Elizabeth

If there's one thing that captures the imagination and beckons adventure, it's the allure of sailing the open sea. And with her sleek style and alluring design, Queen Elizabeth is surely a ship that fits the bill. This storied vessel has a rich, seafaring past, which you too could be a part of.

The beginning

Built as a sister ship to Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth joined the Cunard fleet in 2010. She is, in part, a tribute to those eponymous ships who came before her – the original Queen Elizabeth, in the 1930s, and the well-loved Queen Elizabeth 2, better known as ‘the QE2’. As such, the current Queen Elizabeth has a notable Art Deco interior, evoking images of what many describe as the Golden Age of travel.

The launch

On October 11, 2010, following completion of the construction of Queen Elizabeth in Italy, Queen Elizabeth II launched the ship of her namesake at a ceremony in Southampton. Then, the following day, the ship embarked on her maiden voyage to the Canary Islands under Captain Christopher Wells.

Notable events

Since her launch, Queen Elizabeth has been a part of many Cunard events. On June 5, 2012, Queen Elizabeth joined Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 in Southampton, to celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee. This was the first time all three ships had sailed into Southampton at the same time and it was truly a spectacular night. Then, on May 25, 2015, the three Queens came together again in Liverpool, to commemorate Cunard’s 175th anniversary. Complete with a Red Arrow fly-past, and over a million spectators, this too was an unforgettable celebration.

Australasia and beyond

In 2019, Queen Elizabeth sailed to Australia to embark on an extended season in this part of the world. She became a familiar sight at Sydney Harbour, transporting thousands of guests on extraordinary vacations around Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Today, Queen Elizabeth continues to sail the world in style. Embodying the spirit of her predecessors, the original Queen Elizabeth and Queen Elizabeth 2, all who join on board are treated to a one-of-a-kind vacation. At once you feel at home, and yet surrounded by beautiful interiors and Art Deco details. Why not explore our Queen Elizabeth voyages and discover for yourself the magic of the open sea on this elegant ship?

Discover Queen Elizabeth