Queen Mary 2 To Star In America’s 250th Celebration

Cunard has announced that the Queen Mary 2 will take center stage in New York Harbor on July 4, 2026, during Sail4th 250 — the official commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American Independence.

With 250 days remaining until the milestone event, Cunard confirmed that the vessel will serve as a key venue for NBC’s national broadcast coverage, offering a prime vantage point for the International Parade of Sail.

“Given Cunard’s longstanding history bringing travelers through New York Harbor, we’re incredibly proud that the Queen Mary 2 will be part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations,” said Liz Fettes, SVP of Commercial for North America and Australasia at Cunard.

Chris O’Brien, president of Sail4th 250, added: “With the Queen Mary 2 positioned alongside the Parade of Sail, this historic event now has the sense of prestige and international collaboration that we hoped for from the beginning.” He continued, “Her presence will be a powerful symbol of transatlantic unity and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone watching from the harbor or onboard.”

Guests aboard the Queen Mary 2 will enjoy an unparalleled view of more than 100 ships participating in the harbor parade, including over 50 Class A and Class B tall ships from 30 nations, as well as a fleet of U.S. and allied naval vessels. The procession will travel from the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, past the Statue of Liberty, and up the Hudson River before an audience of millions.

Onboard festivities will include live entertainment and educational programs, such as performances by John Joseph and Vox Fortura, and talks led by maritime historian Bill Miller and art historian Dr. Seth Gopin.

As evening falls, the Queen Mary 2 will turn in New York Harbor to provide guests with an unmatched view of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks display.

Following the celebrations, the liner will continue its journey with visits to Newport, Rhode Island, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, before returning to New York. The seven-night “Independence Day Celebration Voyage” (M614) will depart round-trip from New York on July 3, 2026.