Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 achieved a historic milestone by completing its first transit through the Panama Canal on Monday, January 26th, during its 2026 World Voyage. This significant event took place while guests on board enjoyed a unique experience as the ship navigated the new locks of the canal on Saturday, January 24th.
Following an overnight stop at the Cocoli Mooring Station, the vessel continued through the canal and passed under the iconic Bridge of Americas on Sunday, January 25th.
Cunard president Katie McAlister commented on this achievement, stating, “As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2’s maiden transit through the Panama Canal marks another extraordinary milestone for Cunard. Our world-famous voyages truly deliver enriching, meaningful and unique experiences for our guests, and the transit through the Panama Canal forms an iconic element of this magnificent Queen’s 108-night World Voyage, where guests will visit memorable destinations like Los Angeles, Sydney, Cape Town, Hong Kong, and Singapore, before returning to Southampton.”
A Historic Return
After the canal crossing, Queen Mary 2 will spend the night in Fuerte Amador, Panama, before heading to Manzanillo, Mexico, and arriving in Los Angeles on February 2nd. This arrival is particularly notable as it represents the ship’s first return to Southern California after 17 years, culminating in a reunion with her namesake, The Queen Mary, for the first time in 20 years.
Upcoming Transits
Cunard plans to continue offering once-in-a-lifetime transits through the Panama Canal on several upcoming voyages in 2026 and 2027, providing guests with additional chances to experience this engineering marvel. Upcoming highlights include:
- Queen Elizabeth, September 24, 2026: Following a second summer in Alaska, she will embark on a 21-night journey from Seattle to Miami, including a Panama Canal transit.
- Queen Anne, January 22, 2027: She will traverse the Panama Canal as part of her 56-night South America Discovery itinerary.
- Queen Victoria, January 10, 2027: Departing from Southampton, she will visit over 30 ports, including a Panama Canal crossing after stops in New York and Aruba.
