In a surprising break from tradition, Cunard has named the City of Liverpool as Godparent of its newest ship Queen Anne in recognition of the long-lasting bond with its spiritual home

The city and the British cruise liner have a long history that stretches back 184 years, when Cunard launched its first transatlantic crossing in July 1840 from Royal Albert Dock.

In the naming ceremony, which took place earlier today in Liverpool, Cunard revealed that the city will be the custodian of the long-awaited Queen Anne, with five Liverpudlian woman chosen to represent the partnership.

Spice Girl and author Melanie C, broadcaster and community leader Ngunan Adamu, local restaurant entrepreneur Natalie Haywood, Liverpool music and cultural legend Jayne Casey, and British Olympian heptathlon athlete Katarina Johnson-Thomson were chosen for their significant contributions to culture at a local, national or international level.

“Incredible honour for the City of Liverpool”

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “Liverpool is the spiritual home of Cunard, and we are therefore delighted and feel it very fitting that the City of Liverpool is the godparent to Queen Anne.

“It’s a testament to the enduring relationship that connects Cunard and the city in which it was founded to the present day when we officially named our new ship on the Liverpool Waterfront, in front of the Cunard Building.

“We are equally delighted to have our five chosen Liverpool icons represent the city in the ceremony. All remarkable in their own right, they have inspired generations and collectively capture the essence of the city that has shaped global culture.”

Read more: 6 things you need to know about Cunard’s Queen Anne

Mel C et al will join McAlister and Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge for a special naming ceremony, where they will officially introduce Queen Anne to its spiritual home, continuing the seafaring tradition by smashing a bottle of champagne against the 249th ship to carry the Cunard name.

Andrew Lewis, Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council, added: “It’s an incredible honour for the City of Liverpool to be chosen as the Godparent of Queen Anne.

“This city shares a treasured bond with Cunard dating back to 1839 when we were the original home of the world-famous line.

“The naming ceremony was a magnificent showpiece that once again cast Liverpool into the limelight, and we are so proud to be forever entwined with Queen Anne as she sails the world. We will always cherish our long-standing relationship with Cunard.”

Cruise Trade News recently revealed that the launch of Queen Anne had spurred an influx of British travellers to try a Cunard cruise for the first time.