Cunard’s new vessel, Queen Victoria, has a three-storey Grand Lobby.

Cunard Line’s new £300 million ocean liner, Queen Victoria, will today (Tuesday 11 December) set sail from Southampton on her maiden voyage – a ten-day cruise of famous Christmas market ports.

The 90,000-ton vessel has distinctive red and black livery and is the second largest of Cunard’s fleet, able to carry 2,000 guests.

Built by Italian shipyard Fincantieri – one of the most technically advanced shipbuilders in the world – the Queen Victoria has signature luxury design elements such as an 800-seat Royal Court Theatre, a three-storey Grand Lobby, and a 1,000 square foot dance floor.

Teresa Anderson, Head of Interior Design, said: “Much of Queen Victoria’s interior design was inspired and carefully planned to take maximum advantage of the ship’s grand spaces. Classical motifs, along with art deco and nouveau touches blend in a subtle continuity and add an element of surprise.”

Carol Marlow, Cunard’s President and Managing Director, added: “Queen Victoria is a spectacular addition to a spectacular fleet.”

Having arrived in Southampton for the first time on Friday 7 December, the Queen Victoria was then named by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall during a one-hour ceremony, which culminated in the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle on her bow for good luck.