HUNDREDS of people lined Sydney Harbour to welcome the world's most majestic ocean liners - the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth - as they arrived this morning.
On the water, dozens of boats formed a guard of honour.
Business workers, joggers, workmen all watched on as Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 gracefully sailed through the harbour, just after 6.30am.
It is the first time the pair has arrived in tandem in Sydney.
A tourist Peter Basstle, from the UK, described the sight of the two Cunard liners together as "magic".
"Does it get any better than this, this is incredible," Mr Basstle said.
But while the superships had a smooth passage, it will be far different story on the Harbour foreshore.
The historic visit is expected to cause gridlock as thousands flock to the CBD for a glimpse of the royal rendezvous.
The stately sisters glided either side of Fort Denison, sounding their whistles as they passed about 6.30am before going their separate ways.
The luxurious 11-deck QE, complete with a croquet field and royal spa, will berth at Circular Quay's Overseas Passenger Terminal until midday tomorrow. Its opulent transatlantic sister, the QM2 - taller than the Eiffel Tower and featuring a planetarium - sets sail from Garden Island about five hours later.
The royal visit is expected to inject more than $3 million into the NSW economy, with around 6000 cashed-up passengers enjoying the delights of the Harbour City.
Sydney's Transport Management Centre is bracing for mayhem on the roads.
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