Queen Mary 2 to Headline America’s 250th Anniversary Celebrations

Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 will take center stage in New York Harbor on July 4, 2026, as part of Sail4th 250, the official event marking 250 years since American Independence.

With 250 days to go until this historic occasion, Queen Mary 2 will play a key role as host to NBC national TV coverage, with an exclusive front-row seat for the International Parade of Sail—the largest maritime gathering in New York in decades. Guests onboard will have a front-row seat to the more than 100 vessels parading through the harbor, including over 50 Class A and Class B tall ships from 30 nations, alongside a fleet of allied and U.S. Navy ships. The route will see vessels sail from the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, past the Statue of Liberty, and up the Hudson River in front of millions of spectators.

Specially Curated Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Queen Mary 2, Cunard guests will enjoy a specially curated day of entertainment and enrichment. Scheduled performances include acclaimed U.S. comedian John Joseph, known for his musical improvisation and wit, and classical crossover trio Vox Fortura, celebrated for their fusion of opera and soul. Cunard’s renowned Insights program will feature maritime historian Bill Miller, affectionately known as “Mr. Ocean Liner,” and art historian Dr. Seth Gopin, whose lectures explore the intersections of art, architecture and history.

As evening falls, Queen Mary 2 will turn in New York Harbor to offer guests unrivaled views of the official Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, set against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. Following the celebrations, the ship will continue its journey with calls in Newport, RI, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, before returning to New York. The seven-night “Independence Day Celebration Voyage” (M614) departs roundtrip from New York on July 3, 2026.

Liz Fettes, SVP, commercial, North America & Australasia of Cunard, said: “Given Cunard’s longstanding history bringing travelers through New York Harbor, we’re incredibly proud that Queen Mary 2 will be part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. This will be a truly memorable historical moment, and there’s no better way to experience it than on board our iconic ocean liner. Our guests can look forward to a unique celebration at sea, surrounded by unforgettable views, special events and a luxurious Cunard experience.”

Chris O’Brien, President of Sail4th 250, said: “With 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. Her presence will be a powerful symbol of transatlantic unity and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone watching from the harbor or on board.”

Sail4th 250 is expected to draw over eight million spectators to New York and New Jersey’s waterfronts. The six-day event will also include an International Naval Review, an aerial performance by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels, and the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, which will be broadcast nationally by NBCUniversal and Telemundo.

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