Queen Mary 2 Makes Historic First Transit Through the Panama Canal

Cunard’s flagship continues World Voyage with milestone passage through the canal’s new locks

Monday, 26 January – Cunard’s flagship, Queen Mary 2, completed her historic first transit through the Panama Canal, marking a significant milestone in her 2026 World Voyage.

Guests travelling onboard the 108-night voyage experienced a rare occasion as Queen Mary 2 began her inaugural passage through the canal’s new set of locks on Saturday, 24 January. Following an overnight stay at the Cocoli Mooring Station, the ship continued her transit, passing beneath the Bridge of the Americas on Sunday, 25 January.

“As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2’s first passage through the Panama Canal represents another remarkable milestone for Cunard,” said President Katie McAlister. “Our world-renowned voyages deliver enriching, meaningful and truly unique experiences for our guests, and the Panama Canal transit is an iconic highlight of this magnificent Queen’s 108-night World Voyage. Guests will also visit unforgettable destinations including Los Angeles, Sydney, Cape Town, Hong Kong and Singapore, before returning to Southampton.”

Following the canal transit, Queen Mary 2 will visit Fuerte Amador, Panama, for an overnight stay, and Manzanillo, Mexico, before arriving in Los Angeles on 2 February. Her arrival in Southern California will mark a long-awaited return after 17 years, as she completes this memorable leg of her world voyage. Queen Mary 2 will also reunite with her legendary namesake, The Queen Mary, for the first time in 20 years. She will return to Southampton on 30 April 2026.

Cunard’s Queens will continue once-in-a-lifetime transits through the Panama Canal as part of several upcoming voyages in 2026 and 2027.