Cunard’s newest ship is changing flags. Queen Anne will leave the line after its 2028-29 World Voyage and move to sister brand P&O Cruises, where it will be renamed, extensively refitted, and returned to service in May 2029.
The move sets off a second transfer within Carnival Corporation. P&O Cruises’ Arcadia will sail a farewell season ending Aug. 21, 2029, and then shift to Holland America Line in late 2029.
“These decisions reflect a careful, long-term view of our portfolio and where the individual strengths of each ship can best support guest demand and the future direction of our two cruise lines,” said Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK, P&O Cruises, and Cunard.
Queen Anne entered service in May 2024 as Cunard’s first new ship in 14 years, so the line is parting with its youngest vessel after roughly five years.
Arcadia, an adults-only ship that joined P&O Cruises in 2005, has history with both of the other brands. It was ordered for Holland America Line and later earmarked for Cunard before being reassigned to P&O Cruises during construction. At Holland America, it will sail alongside its Vista-class siblings, including Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam, and Noordam, after an overhaul under Holland America Evolution, the line’s multiyear fleet renewal program.
Queen Anne will give P&O Cruises a new class of ship, which Ludlow said differs from the existing fleet in scale, onboard style, and itineraries. Cunard will go back to three ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth. Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner still running regular transatlantic service, is scheduled for a major upgrade next year.
“This decision does not change our commitment to Cunard or its future,” Ludlow said. “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.”
Before the handover, Queen Anne will take part in the Four Queens gathering in Liverpool in May 2028 and begin its final Cunard World Voyage in January 2029.
Advisors with clients booked on either ship can sit tight for now, as all published sailings before the transfer dates will operate as planned. Still to come are Queen Anne’s new name and inaugural P&O Cruises itineraries, Arcadia’s farewell season and on-sale date, and plans for Queen Anne’s final Cunard season.
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