The 2,996-passenger ship will continue sailing for Cunard until the end of its 2028/29 World Voyage before undergoing an "extensive reimagining" and be renamed before entering service for its sister brand in May 2029.

Carnival UK, P&O Cruises and Cunard President Paul Ludlow revealed the renamed Queen Anne ship will be the maiden vessel in a new class of ship for P&O Cruises.

In a related move, Arcadia, a P&O Cruises ship which entered service in 2005, will transfer across to Holland America Line in May 2029.

Ludlow insisted the decisions reflected "a careful, long-term view of our portfolio and where the individual strengths of each ship can best support guest demand and the future direction of our two cruise lines". 

Ludlow added: “Queen Anne was created as a bold and contemporary expression of Cunard, combining the brand’s hallmark service and sense of occasion with modern design, an extensive choice of dining and entertainment, and highly flexible public spaces.

“Those qualities give her a natural affinity with the modern P&O Cruises holiday experience. This choice will complement the existing fleet and make her a defining addition to the next chapter of P&O Cruises.

“Queen Anne has established a special place within the Cunard fleet and she has an exciting programme ahead, including a central role in the Four Queens celebration in Liverpool in May 2028."

Ludlow said that the move would not affect Carnival UK's commitment to the Cunard brand. "We will continue to invest in the ships, service, itineraries and guest experiences that make Cunard unique, while building on the strong following enjoyed by each of its three Queens," he continued.

Ludlow also highlighted next year's "major upgrade" project of Cunard's Queen Mary 2 as an example of how Carnival UK remains committed to Cunard as a brand.

"As the world's only ocean liner providing regular transatlantic service, it’s a one-of-a-kind asset, and our investment is designed to ensure it continues to delight guests for decades to come," he said.