THE famous Cunard cruise liner Queen Mary 2 has arrived in Liverpool.

As part of a 14-night Northern Atlantic Westbound Crossing, the Queen Mary 2 arrived at 7am and will depart at 8pm today (Tuesday, July 16).

During this historic call to Liverpool, 300 passengers are set to join her on her voyage to New York via Reykjavik and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

In 2015, the Queen Mary 2 came to Liverpool with sister liners Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth to take part in the Three Queens event to celebrate 175 years of Cunard and its links with the region.

Founded in Liverpool, Cunard's first ship Britannia set sail from the city in 1840, inaugurating the first-ever regularly scheduled service across the Atlantic.

The company’s head office remained in Liverpool for 128 years until 1968.

Cunard's magnificent former HQ forms part of the World Heritage-listed "Three Graces" along with the Royal Liver Building and the Port of Liverpool Building - defining one of the world’s most recognised skylines.

This year will see 86 ships carrying 165,000 passengers and crew members in Liverpool, with the season expected to boost the local economy by £12m.

Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages have announced it will be bringing its first ocean liner Scarlett Lady to Liverpool in 2020.

Throughout today there will be a host of celebrations including a quayside concert featuring spoken word artist Lynsey Price, Liverpool's town crier and much more.

A confetti show will signal the departure at 8pm, all celebrations are free and spectators can enjoy the farewell from Princes Parade.

For more information visit https://www.cruise-liverpool.com/