Liverpool named as Godparent to the Cunard Queen Anne ahead of iconic Bottle Smash

The anticipation was palpable on Liverpool’s Pier Head as crowds gathered to witness a momentous occasion: the naming ceremony of Cunard’s newest liner, Queen Anne.

The Cunard Queen Anne naming ceremony was hosted by TV’s Emma Willis and her husband, Busted’s Matt Willis, kicking off an eventful evening that will be accompanied by the iconic bottle smash against the ship.

At 4.00pm, Emma and Matt welcomed the audience and set the tone for an unforgettable ceremony.

The stage was graced by world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, the Liverpool Theatre School, and DJ Lauren Lo Sung, each adding their own unique touch to this grand celebration.

Special guests from Cunard took to the stage, sharing heartfelt speeches and anecdotes that highlighted the significance of Queen Anne, and her spiritual home of Liverpool.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the official Godparent of the ship was ready to be announced.

For the first time ever an entire city has been named as Godparent for a new cruise liner. 

The City of Liverpool has been named Godparent Cunard’s Queen Anne, another historic moment to add to our records.

A ship godmother is usually a civilian, often a woman, invited to sponsor a new vessel. This role is typically filled by royalty or celebrities. The tradition holds that feminine energy brings good luck and protection for future voyages.

To represent the city 5 Liverpool icons were honoured at the ceremony; Olympian Katarina Johnson-Thompson, Spice Girl Melanie C, BBC Radio Merseyside’s Ngunan Adamu, owner of LEAF Natalie Haywood, and Liverpool music legend Jayne Casey.

They were joined on stage by Cunard CEO Katie McAlister, and Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge for the naming ceremony and the smashing of the champagne bottle.

The crescendo of the opening event was the iconic bottle-smashing ceremony, a maritime tradition that signifies the official naming of a ship. The crowd held their breath as a bottle of champagne was carefully positioned against Queen Anne’s hull.

The bottle was smashed, sending a spray of champagne across the ship and the cheering crowd. The resounding smash marked Queen Anne’s official entry into the Cunard fleet.

Following the bottle-smashing, Emma and Matt introduced Andrea Bocelli to the stage who captivated the audience with a breathtaking performance.

The naming ceremony of Queen Anne is a historic moment that brought together the community of Liverpool and beyond for yet another milestone in our history

Tonight the audience will be treated to a party of funk and soul from Scouse legend, and DJ, Craig Charles. Then prepare to b mesmerised as a fireworks set will say goodbye to the Queen Anne as she departs from the Mersey.

For more on the Cunard Queen Anne click here.