Orkney played host to “royal” visitor

Orkney played host to a “royal” visitor on Tuesday 28 May, when Cunard's newest cruise ship, Queen Anne, called into Kirkwall.  

Queen Anne is the company's first new ship for 14 years and set sail on her maiden voyage from Southampton to Lisbon on 4 May 2024.  

Orkney Harbours Business Development Manager, Paul Olvhoj, said: “We are delighted that Kirkwall featured as a port of call for Cunard’s newest cruise ship, Queen Anne.  

“As part of the inaugural welcome, the ship received a tug escort with a water salute on arriving into Kirkwall Bay. The ship’s captain was presented with a lovely basket of local produce and for every maiden visitor we have each year, we plant a tree in Arcadia Park, which is a really nice, long-lasting memory. 

“Orkney is renowned for its warm welcome and the weather was kind!” 

Queen Anne features 14 decks and can accommodate just under 3,000 passengers.  

There’s an 835-seat Royal Court Theatre, casino, library, spa, beauty and fitness amenities, an art gallery and open-air theatre on board. 

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “This is truly a one-of-a-kind sailing that will go down in history. The British Isles Festival Voyage will celebrate the very best of Scotland both on board and on shore.”