Queen Mary 2: The world’s last true ocean liner visits local shores
A historic ocean voyage is drawing global attention as a legendary liner adds South Africa to its milestone-filled itinerary.
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is celebrating a double milestone this year, with a stop in Durban today and Cape Town on Sunday. She is reportedly the only true ocean liner in active service today, with crossings between Europe and North America, reports Berea Mail.
Queen Mary 2 celebrates two milestones this year: She completed her first-ever transit of the Panama Canal in January, passing under the Bridge of the Americas and marking a historic milestone in her service history. Later, in November, she will commemorate her 450th Transatlantic Crossing, a testament to her enduring legacy.
While Durban will be a day visit, Cape Town is among the select destinations on the 2026 World Voyage itinerary, offering an overnight stay, giving guests the opportunity to fully explore the Mother City.
“Queen Mary 2 is more than just a cruise ship; she’s a living piece of maritime history,” says Shaun McCarthy, managing director at Whitestar Cruise & Travel, Cunard’s South African representative.
“This will be one of several visits she has made to South Africa over the years, but this year seems especially significant. Not only is she marking important milestones, but out of roughly 300 to 350 cruise ships in operation today, about 150 of which are classified as luxury vessels, she remains the only true ocean liner in the world.
“Guests aboard can visit the art gallery and enjoy cosy evenings in its classic lounges, not to mention a visit to the only planetarium at sea. Also unique to Queen Mary 2 are dedicated kennels that allow guests to travel with their pets on transatlantic crossings only. The ship also features a theatre with West End–style shows, live music and ballroom dancing, as well as a fitness centre, multiple swimming pools, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, a jogging track with stunning ocean views, and a variety of dance and fitness classes,” adds McCarthy.
Queen Mary 2 is expected to sail into Cape Town around 05:30 on Sunday. For more information, go to https://whitestar.co.za.
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