Queen Mary 2 ocean liner arrives in Liverpool

The call marks the 185th anniversary of Cunard's first transatlantic crossing from Liverpool in 1840

Cunard's flagship liner Queen Mary 2 has returned to Liverpool.

The call by the world's only ocean liner marks the 185th anniversary of Cunard's first transatlantic crossing, which departed the city in 1840.

The vessel arrived at Liverpool cruise terminal at about 20:00 BST on Wednesday and will stay for two nights as part of a British Isles Voyage, departing for Oban on Friday evening.

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: "Liverpool will always be the spiritual home of Cunard and it is wonderful to be back."

The ocean liner is staying for two nights as part of a British Isles Voyage

The vessel arrived at Liverpool cruise terminal at about 20:00 BST on Wednesday

"So many of our proudest moments are tied to this city, from Britannia's first sailing to the naming of Queen Anne, and it feels very special to be celebrating together once again," she said.

The city is set to host a series of events to honour the anniversary.

There is set to be a formal welcome for Captain Tomás Connery and senior officers at 16:30 on Thursday at Liverpool Town Hall to recognise Cunard's connection to the city.

There will also be guided tours of the Cunard Building for both QM2 passengers and the public and a pop-up market will host more than 40 stalls featuring local food, drink, crafts and art inside the Cunard Building's Grand Arrivals Hall.

The QM2 is scheduled to depart for Oban on Friday evening at 20:30

The liner is 14 decks tall and has 1,353 staterooms

This is the third visit to the city by Cunard this year

Liverpool City Council's cabinet member for health, wellbeing and culture, councillor Harry Doyle, said Liverpool and Cunard shared "a bond that spans nearly two centuries – a relationship built on heritage, pride and unforgettable moments".

"This celebration is not only a tribute to our shared history, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to future collaborations with Cunard," he said.

The ocean liner will remain alongside at Liverpool Cruise Port until the voyage's departure, scheduled for 20:30 BST on Friday.

QM2 is expected to pass New Brighton at 20:50, Crosby at 21:15 and Formby at 21:40. All timings are subject to change.

This is the third and final visit to the city by Cunard this year following Queen Anne's calls in May and August.