Guest blog: Lauren Stone, Vice Consul, Consumer Goods- UK Trade & Investment
I had a unique opportunity last night to be part of a group of spectators gathered to bid farewell to the Queen Victoria, Queen Mary 2, and Queen Elizabeth as they left New York Harbour. This was an historic occasion—only the second time the “Three Queens” had been together in New York and the first visit for the Queen Elizabeth.
Gathering at the top of the Ritz Carlton Battery Park, a group of press, business leaders and travel professionals buzzed excitedly about the departure and fireworks that would soon illuminate the night sky. Despite frigid temperatures and bone-chilling wind, it was a clear night – and an ideal setting to send off these three beautiful Cunard vessels.
The ships are indeed magnificent, but they are also a symbol of the important UK/US relationship. Reflecting back on their history, the ships’ predecessors had a slightly different role; they were originally designed to support transatlantic communication and commerce.
Supporting the UK-US trading relationship remains as important now as it was when the Cunard Line began, and continues to add significant value to both countries. Today’s fleet provides an equally important role in supporting the British-American economies. Tourism via cruise ships and other means delivers millions of visitors to both of our shores each year. As the UK prepares to host the London 2012 Olympic Games, the importance of tourism is even more present in our minds.
And so the ships, filled with excited tourists, sailed away beneath a veil of lights. We all gathered our hot chocolates and bundled up in our warmest attire to witness the departure. And as the classical music and vibrant firework display commenced, smiles spread across everyone’s faces, and for maybe a brief moment, the cold didn’t seem so bad.