SOUTHAMPTON — Cunard has been forced to delay the launch of its highly anticipated new ship, Queen Anne.

Previously scheduled to launch in January 2024, the new Pinnacle-class Queen Anne – the line’s first new ship since the debut of Queen Elizabeth in 2010 – is now set to depart Southampton on May 3, 2024, visiting La Coruna, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal.

In a letter sent to booked guests, Cunard cited reasons beyond its control for the delay, namely supply chain issues and energy constraints. As a result, Queen Anne’s maiden season sailings departing from Jan. 4, 2024, up to and including April 14, 2024, have been cancelled.

The company has automatically transferred guests to the ship’s new seven-night maiden voyage in 2024. Guests who are unable to join the new maiden voyage can cancel or rebook on a different sailing. If they cancel, they will receive a full refund plus a 10% future cruise credit based on what costs have already been paid.

Queen Anne’s new inaugural season of voyages will go on sale in December, with general bookings opening on Dec. 7.

The ship is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.