It was a rare moment for luxury cruise line Cunard at the Port of Long Beach on Monday, February 2, 2026 when two Cunard Queens reunited for the first time in 20 years.
Queen Mary 2 departed on an 108-night World Voyage from Southampton, UK on Sunday, January 11, 2026, and anchored just off the coast of Long Beach, California to rendezvous with her namesake, Queen Mary, in a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Queen Mary 2 debuted 35 years after Queen Mary retired in 1967. Queen Mary 2 is known as the world’s only true ocean liner and for her transatlantic crossing between New York and Southampton. Additionally, she still houses a refurbished whistle from the original Queen Mary.
“This iconic rendezvous pays a powerful tribute to Cunard’s enduring legacy and the spirit of ocean travel,” said Katie McAlister, President of Cunard. “Queen Mary 2’s reunion with the original Queen Mary for the first time in 20 years reflects our past, present and future, reminding us of Cunard’s distinct connection to maritime history and the generations brought together through timeless elegance, innovation and one-of-a-kind journeys around the world.”
Queen Mary, who is celebrating her 90th anniversary, is a cultural icon permanently docked in Long Beach which serves as a hotel, museum and event venue. She is one of the world’s most recognizable ships and known for her Art Deco, paranormal and historical tours and exhibits as well as signature festivals.
“Welcoming Queen Mary 2 to Long Beach during our 90th anniversary year is an extraordinary honor, and watching the rendezvous this morning was a once-in-a-generation sight,” said Steve Caloca, Managing Director of the Queen Mary. “This historic moment reflects the enduring bond between the Queen Mary’s past and present and continued role as a living symbol of ocean travel, innovation, and preservation.”
In another historic moment, on January 25,Queen Mary 2 transited the Panama Canal for the first time in her career. After meeting up with Queen Mary, Queen Mary 2 docked at the Port of Los Angeles for an overnight stay. Queen Mary 2 is visiting more than 30 ports of call during her World Voyage with overnight stays not only in Los Angeles, but also San Francisco, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore and Cape Town.