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QE2 returns Home
Today's visit of the world's most famous ship coincided with the opening of the city's £19m cruise liner terminal at Princes Dock.
The worlds most famous ocean liner arrived at 07.00 with the aid of three tugs and River Pilot Bob Swift on board.
Despite driving rain, many of the passengers were out on deck to wave to the members of the public who had braved the weather to catch a glimpse of the legendary liner.
Later in the morning the City of Liverpool Cruise Terminal was officially opened by HRH Duke of Kent whilst Council Leader Warren Bradley presented Cunard President Carol Marlow with a street sign 'Cunard Way' to mark the decision to name the bridge leading to the terminal Cunard Way.
Ms Marlow said: "I think it is fair to say that Cunard has left its mark on this wonderful city and I know for sure this wonderful city has left its mark on Cunard.
"We are immensely proud this access road will be named Cunard Way. It is wonderful the way it reinforces the links between Cunard and Liverpool, our spiritual home.The QE2 gave a sigh of relief when she came in this morning. She thought she had come home."
There was attendance from over 200 invited Civic guests and representatives from the Maritime sector who enjoyed music from 'The Travelling People' sea shanty band before boarding the QE2 for a reception.
Later in the day the sun came out just before 1500 passengers disembarked to enjoy a gala concert at Liverpool Cathedral with performances by Lesley Garrett accompanied by the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir. Many members of the public had been fortunate enough to attend the concert by registering their interest for tickets via Liverpool's 08 card
At 22.00 a huge mid river firework display took place which thousands of people turned out to see on both sides of the Mersey.
The QE2 is set to return to Liverpool on October 3rd 2008