Cunard seeks Deserving Annes

Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, makes her debut in Australian waters in February 2025 — and to mark the occasion the cruise line is asking Australians to nominate remarkable women named Anne for special, right royal treatment on the liner.

Its Deserving Annes campaign looks to women named Anne who have made meaningful contributions to their families, communities or society.

Four extraordinary Annes will be selected to step aboard the Queen Anne and be celebrated for their efforts.

Cunard president Katie McAlister says: “Queen Anne represents the epitome of luxury, elegance, and celebration. What better way to mark her maiden arrival in Australia than by recognising women who embody those qualities through their incredible contributions? We are delighted to have a chance to recognise and celebrate inspiring women who embody the spirit of Cunard.”

They will be invited on board Queen Anne on February 28 and March 1, 2025, in Sydney and have a dedicated butler for the time aboard; a champagne breakfast; spa treatments, sauna access and a refreshing swim; meals at specialty dining restaurants; cocktails and an evening performance; and an overnight stay on the ship or a five-star hotel in Sydney.

Australians can nominate Deserving Annes who have made a difference in any sphere of life at cunard.com/en-au/deservingannes.

ABOUT the original Queen Anne

The younger daughter of James II, Queen Anne is often a bit overlooked by historians, but her time on the throne changed Britain. Her reign, from 1702 to 1714, marked the end of the Stuart dynasty and paved the way for the Georgian era.

A person of contrasts, she was personally shy, yet could be assertive and authoritative. She oversaw the long-lasting union of England and Scotland, but as a mother, was in poor health, had 17 pregnancies and outlived all her children. She appears devoted to a kind but uninspiring husband, and had female favourites including Lady Sarah Churchill and Lady Abigail Masham.

She completed the building of Hampton Court Palace, though she lived and died at Kensington Palace.

ABOUT the ship Queen Anne

The 14-deck Cunard liner Queen Anne can carry up to 3000 passengers. A spokesperson says it has more choices of entertainment, dining and bars than on previous ships.

The spokesperson adds: “It also boasts the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities so far seen on a Cunard ship, with her reimagined Mareel Wellness and Beauty proposition heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea.

“The ship’s design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling and innovation.”