The iconic Queen Mary 2 has etched her name into maritime history by completing her first-ever transit of the Panama Canal, a landmark moment during Cunard’s 2026 World Voyage.

The historic passage took place over January 24 and 25, 2026, as the 149,215-ton vessel—celebrated as the world’s only true ocean liner—successfully navigated the modern Cocoli Locks and sailed beneath the famed Bridge of the Americas.

Guests onboard witnessed the rare spectacle up close, enhanced by an overnight stay at the Cocoli Mooring Station before the transit was completed.

The canal crossing now stands as one of the defining highlights of the ship’s expansive 108-night global journey.

A Global Voyage Rich in Milestones and Reunion

The Queen Mary 2’s 2026 World Voyage features an impressive lineup of extended port calls, including Los Angeles, Sydney, Cape Town, Hong Kong, and Singapore, before concluding in Southampton.

Cunard President Katie McAlister underscored the importance of the achievement, stating, “Our world-famous voyages truly deliver enriching, meaningful and unique experiences for our guests. Queen Mary 2’s maiden Panama Canal transit marks another extraordinary milestone for Cunard.”

Following the canal crossing, the ship made an overnight call at Fuerte Amador, Panama, before continuing to Manzanillo, Mexico. She is scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles on February 2, marking her first visit to Southern California in 17 years.

That arrival carries special significance, as it will reunite Queen Mary 2 with her legendary namesake, the original Queen Mary, for the first time in two decades.

Route Changes Highlight Cape Town’s Rising Role

The historic transit comes amid broader strategic changes to Cunard’s 2026 world cruise itineraries, driven by evolving global maritime conditions.

Ongoing security concerns in the Red Sea have made the Suez Canal route untenable, prompting Cunard to reroute both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne around the west coast of Africa.

This adjustment introduces new port calls, including Port Louis in Mauritius and Cape Town, reinforcing Cape Town’s growing importance as a major cruise hub amid shifting international shipping routes.

Queen Mary 2 is set to depart Cape Town on April 17, 2026, embarking on a 17-night return voyage to Southampton, while Queen Anne will sail from Cape Town to Singapore on a 22-night journey beginning January 31, 2026.

Although the rerouting has resulted in the cancellation of some itinerary segments, affected guests are being offered full refunds within 14 days in line with Cunard’s policy.

The Queen Mary 2’s 2026 World Voyage—marked by historic firsts and adaptive navigation—is scheduled to conclude in Southampton on April 30, 2026, offering guests a rare blend of maritime heritage and modern global exploration.