Throngs of onlookers lined the Liverpool waterfront to watch the Queen Mary 2 ocean liner sail out of its “spiritual home” on Merseyside after a two-day stay during a national tour.

Cunard’s flagship vessel’s trip to the city marked the 185th anniversary of the firm’s first transatlantic crossing, which departed in 1840.

The ocean liner set sail for Oban in western Scotland on Friday evening, when spectators said a fond farewell to the vessel from both sides of the River Mersey, with fireworks lighting up the skies.

It was the third and final visit to the city by Cunard this year following Queen Anne’s calls in May and August.