This image captures Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 arriving into Sydney Harbour during her 2026 World Voyage.

The world’s only ocean liner sailed into the harbour with the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge as a backdrop, marking a key moment in her circumnavigation of the globe.

As part of the celebrations, acclaimed Australian author Anna Funder unveiled A Letter from Australia to the World. What began as a simple call to write has evolved into a modern-day pen-pal exchange transcending oceans, cultures and time zones. Each of the more than 500 submitted letters will now journey aboard Queen Mary 2 as she sails across Asia, Africa and Europe, where guests will be invited to read and respond to the voices of Australia carried with her.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “For 185 years, Cunard ships have transported more than passengers; they have been the bearer of stories, ideas and human connection. As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2 represents a style of travel that values depth over speed and experience over urgency.

“We have been deeply heartened by the response from Australians who chose to put pen to paper and share a part of themselves with someone they may never meet. In doing so, they have become part of a living tradition that stretches across oceans and across generations.”

Queen Mary 2 is currently sailing her 108‑night World Voyage from Southampton. Following her call in Sydney, the flagship will continue her journey across the Asia‑Pacific region before returning to the UK later this spring.

Queen Mary 2 will return to Southampton at the conclusion of her World Voyage in April 2026.

For more information on Cunard or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com