Cunard's Queen Anne will join the P&O Cruises fleet in 2029 while Arcadia will be transferred to Holland America Line
Queen Anne will complete its 2028/29 World Voyage and join its sister brand P&O Cruises in May 2029 after undergoing an "extensive reimagining" and renaming, Carnival UK said.
The ship joined the Cunard fleet in 2024, marking the first time the line has a four-ship fleet in 25 years.
Meanwhile, P&O Cruises' Arcadia will complete its summer season in August 2029 and be transferred to Holland America Line, which is also owned by Carnival Corporation.
Carnival UK, P&O Cruises and Cunard president Paul Ludlow said the plans "reflect a careful, long-term view" of the cruise giant's portfolio and where the "individual strengths of each ship can best support guest demand".
He emphasised the decision to reduce Cunard's fleet from four ships to three "does not change our commitment to Cunard of its future", adding: "We will continue to invest in the ships, service, itineraries and guest experiences that make Cunard unique, while building on the strong following enjoyed by each of its three Queens."
Next year, Cunard's flagship, Queen Mary 2, will complete a "major upgrade", the company confirmed.
"Queen Anne was created as a bold and contemporary expression of Cunard, combining the brand's hallmark service and sense of occasion with modern design, an extensive choice of dining and entertainment, and highly flexible public spaces," he said.
"Those qualities give her a natural affinity with the modern P&O Cruises holiday experience. Following her reimagining, she will introduce a new class of ship to the P&O Cruises fleet and broaden the choice available to guests through a different scale, style of onboard experience and range of itineraries. The choice will complement the existing fleet and make her a defining addition to the next chapter of P&O Cruises.
"Queen Anne has established a special place within the Cunard fleet and she has an exciting programme ahead, including a central role in the Four Queens celebration in Liverpool in May 2028 and her final World Voyage as a Cunard ship in January 2029."
He continued: "Arcadia has been a much-loved part of P&O Cruises for more than two decades and has created countless special memories for our guests. We are immensely proud of her place in the line's history and pleased that, following a celebratory farewell season, she will continue her career within the Carnival Corporation family."
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