Cunard to Lose Queen Anne to P&O Cruises After the 2028–29 World Voyage

October 7, 2026 — Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, will leave the fleet after its 2028–29 world voyage and transfer to sister brand P&O Cruises in May 2029. Carnival UK, part of Carnival Corporation, announced the move on October 6.

Queen Anne entered service in May 2024 and carries about 3,000 guests. Its final Cunard voyage is the world cruise that departs in January 2029. After that the ship will be refitted and renamed for P&O.

Cunard will then run three ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. Queen Mary 2 is due for a major upgrade in 2027; dates and details are TBA.

What stays the same

All published Queen Anne voyages before the transfer will operate as planned.
Queen Anne keeps its central role in the Four Queens gathering in Liverpool in May 2028.
Carnival UK president Paul Ludlow said the move “does not change our commitment to Cunard or its future.”

Cruise Passenger reports that the news has set off a fierce debate among Cunard loyalists.

What it means for airline travelers

No rebooking needed. Every published Queen Anne sailing through the 2028–29 world voyage is going ahead.
One ship fewer from mid-2029. Cunard will have about 3,000 fewer berths. That may mean fewer low-fare cabins, though Cunard has not commented on pricing.
Four Queens, May 2028: Liverpool John Lennon (LPL) and Manchester (MAN) are the nearest airports. Expect high hotel demand, and arrive early if you are flying standby.
Interline rates: not mentioned in the announcement or the coverage.