Cunard is teaming up with Sail4th 250 to bring the Queen Mary 2 to New York for America’s 250th anniversary from July 3-8, 2026, according to a press release.
As part of the event, the Queen Mary 2 will be positioned in New York Harbor during the six-day commemoration, which will feature the largest international flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled. Over 30 tall ships from at least 17 nations are expected to participate. The celebration will also include public ship access, festivals, a fireworks display and an exhibition of 18th-century documents.
Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “Cunard has a long and distinguished history with the United States, and we are proud to play a role in this momentous celebration. As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2 will offer guests an experience like no other — immersed in the excitement and grandeur of America’s 250th Independence Day. This is a truly unique opportunity to witness history in spectacular fashion, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of it.”
Chris O’Brien, President of Sail4th 250, added: “The participation of the majestic Queen Mary 2 helps ensure that seafaring travelers can have first-class seats to the most spectacular event in the history of New York Harbour. Given Cunard’s storied history and indelible ties to the United States, we are pleased to have found the perfect seafaring partner for our nation’s historic milestone.”
Ross D. Levi, executive director and vice president NYS Division of Tourism, Empire State Development, said: “The addition of Queen Mary 2 to Sail4th will only enhance the celebrations surrounding America’s 250th birthday. I LOVE NY is proud to support Sail4th’s efforts to create this once-in-a-lifetime event. We look forward to promoting this largest-ever international flotilla as part of the state’s unique America 250 activities so that visitors from around the globe can see for themselves how easy it is to love New York.”
Cunard’s Independence Day Spectacular Voyage sails from July 3-10, 2026. Following its stay in New York, the ship will take guests to explore Newport, Rhode Island, and Halifax, Nova Scotia.
