Steamship Shieldhall Queen Anne launch cruise

Join us on board Shieldhall and witness the maiden departure from Southampton of Cunard’s newest ship, and the fourth in their current fleet, Queen Anne (the 249th ship in its history). Whilst timings of the launch are still to be confirmed this is an opportunity to be present at close quarters as the cruise ship leaves her home port for the first time, en route to Lisbon.Expect much serenading between the two ships on sirens and whistles, and the spectacle of a sea of vessels on Southampton Water as she heads down to the Solent. Following the maiden voyage, Queen Anne will return to Southampton for a series of cruises to historic Mediterranean cities, the Caribbean islands and the Norwegian fjords during her first year of operation.Queen Anne will be a spectacular sight at 113,000 GT and with 3000 passengers on board. Cunard’s iconic red and black funnel will stand atop Queen Anne’s 14 decks. She will have three new-to-the-line specialty restaurants: Aji Wa, a Japanese restaurant with sushi and an omakase tasting menu; Aranya, a new Indian restaurant and Sir Samuels, a high-end steakhouse. But don’t worry, you won’t go hungry on board Shieldhall!As part of your cruise, see Shieldhall’s impressive engine room with its original steam engines at work and the bridge, with its traditional instruments and gleaming brasswork; admire the ship’s steam assisted steering gear (similar to that used on Titanic); talk to the Captain and our volunteer crew; listen to an informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and the Solent; pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships; walk the teak decks; relax in the Saloon with our wide range of refreshments including tea / coffee; a range of Titanic bottled beers; wine and hot and cold food, available on all trips. Courtesy parking is available close to the berth.Please express your interest in attending this sailing. When timings are confirmed, we will contact all of those who have been in touch with further details.