Cunard Queens to Rendevous in New York

If you're in New York on January 13th, you won't want to miss a bit of maritime history in the making when fireworks and fanfare mark the first and only meeting of Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth 2, and the new Queen Victoria. This is the first time in Cunard Line’s 168-year history that three Queens have been in service at the same time and, with QE2 retiring in November 2008, it will also be the only occasion to see all three in one place.

“This is an historic occasion for Cunard and New York, marking the only time that the three ships will be together…ever!” said Carol Marlow, president of Cunard Line. “More history will be made as our grand dame QE2 departs on her 26th and final World Cruise and Queen Victoria will depart on her maiden World Cruise,” Marlow added.

The regal fleet is scheduled to depart at 6:30 p.m. Queen Mary 2 will sail from her home port, Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, while QE2 will depart from Pier 92 and Queen Victoria will depart from Pier 88, both at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. Then, the three Queens will rendezvous and sail past the Statue of Liberty during a spectacular fireworks celebration at approximately 7:00 p.m. Thousands are expected to gather at ideal viewing locations to wish the majestic fleet of Queens “Bon Voyage” and see the fireworks celebration.

The best spots for a clear view are:

• Battery Park: On the southern shoreline of Manhattan.
• Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park: Overlooking the Hudson River with great views of the Statue of Liberty.
• The Esplanade: Running the entire length of Battery Park City, along the Hudson River from Stuyvesant High School on the north end all the way south to Battery Park.
• Hudson River Park: 550 acre park extends for five miles along the Manhattan shoreline from Battery Place to West 59th Street.