HRH The Princess Royal, Patron of the UK’s National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN), will be the special guest at an New York luncheon, sponsored by Cunard, on Thursday October 29 in support of the world’s most iconic warship, HMS Victory, said Cunard Line in a statement.

The luncheon marks another milestone in Cunard’s celebratory 175th year and coincides with the launch of HMS Victory 250 years ago.

The Trafalgar luncheon is a celebration of the history of British Sea Power and is hosted by the American Friends of the National Museum of the Royal Navy (AFNMRN), a not‐for‐profit organization that furthers the special relationship between the British and American navies and supports the NMRN’s collections and educational programs.

HMS Victory is entering the most significant phase of conservation in her 250-year history to stabilise and preserve her. The luncheon marks the early stages of an international campaign to secure her long-term future.

Thebackdrop of Cunard’s flagship ocean liner Queen Mary 2 will provide the setting to the luncheon whilst she is docked at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the conservation of HMS Victory, which boasts a huge following in America.

David W. Fleming, Founding President of the AFNMRN, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Her Royal Highness as guest of honor. There is a very special relationship and shared respect between our two navies, past and present. The awesome sea power of the UK’s greatest flagship, HMS Victory, and the tactical genius of Admiral Lord Nelson capture the hearts and minds of many Americans.”

Luncheon Co-Chair Richard Meadows and President of Cunard, North America said: “This year has been a superb opportunity to showcase and celebrate Cunard’s 175th anniversary and the chance to mark this auspicious occasion in the esteemed company of Her Royal Highness and to support probably the world’s most famous warship, really is very special. We are delighted to support the AFNMRN in their sterling efforts to help conserve HMS Victory.”

Admiral of the Fleet, The Lord Michael Boyce KG GCB OBE DL, Chair of the HMS Victory Preservation Trust, is a special guest at the luncheon travelling to the USA exclusively for the occasion. Director General of the National Museum of the Royal Navy Professor Dominic Tweddle will also be attending.  He said: “The partnership between the NMRN and its American Friends is very strong and we are extremely fortunate to have Cunard’s support in this very special year. This will be a remarkable occasion.”