The birthplace of the most famous shipping line in the world, Liverpool is fittingly taking centre stage in the global celebrations to mark Cunard's 175th anniversary. One million people are expected to head to the city's waterfront to witness the spectacular gathering of the three Cunard Queens - Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth - on the weekend of May 24-26. Liverpool was Cunard's world headquarters for 128 years and, in a magnificent salute to their spiritual home, the ships will perform a series of synchronised manoeuvres on the River Mersey. The souvenir guide to this magical occasion will explore Cunard's special links with Liverpool, recalling previous ship calls to the city and detailing how the historic event will unfold. The programme will also look ahead to the International Mersey River Festival in June, when visitors will be able to board tall ships, Royal and Merchant Navy vessels, narrow boats and barges over three fun-filled days. There will also be a preview of Queen Mary 2's voyage from the Mersey to Halifax, Boston and New York on July 4 - 175 years to the day after Cunard's Britannia made its first transatlantic crossing.