The world-renowned ocean liner Queen Mary 2 arrived in Table Bay Harbour on Monday night as part of her 2026 world voyage, drawing attention once again to one of the most iconic passenger ships still in operation today.
The vessel arrived from Durban and is scheduled to depart Cape Town on Tuesday evening, continuing her journey toward Southampton in the United Kingdom.
Operated as a flagship of modern transatlantic travel, the Queen Mary 2 is often described as a “floating piece of maritime history.” Built in France and officially launched in 2004, the ship remains one of the largest and most prestigious ocean liners in service. She is designed to carry 2,691 passengers alongside a crew of 1,173, offering a blend of luxury cruising and long-distance ocean travel that is increasingly rare in the aviation age.
On board, passengers are accommodated in elegantly styled Art Deco-inspired staterooms and suites, with the exclusive Queens Grill Suites offering premium personalised service, private dining options, and enhanced onboard privileges.
Entertainment aboard the vessel reflects its reputation as a self-contained floating city, with offerings ranging from live theatre productions and themed party nights to cinema screenings, live music performances, and guest speaker programmes that feature experts from a variety of fields.
Later this year, the Queen Mary 2 is set to mark a significant milestone in maritime history – her 450th transatlantic crossing, reinforcing her legacy as one of the last true ocean liners still dedicated to regular long-distance sea travel between Europe and North America.
As she departs Cape Town, the vessel continues not only a scheduled voyage, but a tradition of ocean travel that spans more than a century of maritime heritage.
