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Combine at the world’s most iconic floating hotel with a luxury cruise aboard the regal Queen Mary 2 with our exclusive QE2 cruise packages…

Built in 1967 and originally known as Hull 736, Queen Elizabeth 2 was synonymous with luxury cruising. The ship’s colourful history, which saw her cover 5.6 million miles and complete 806 transatlantic crossings for Cunard – as well as a stint carrying troops in the Falklands War – means the QE2 is rightfully remembered as the world’s most famous ocean liner.

Now based in Dubai, Queen Elizabeth 2 has been reborn as an elegant hotel. The period furniture and original portholes have been maintained, while modifications to the ship’s suites and restaurants mean that she sits effortlessly among the world’s most desirable hotels.

The collection of packages below give you the opportunity to enjoy a stay on Queen Elizabeth 2 either before, or after, a voyage aboard another famous Queen, the QM2 . We’ve included a variety of Cunard sailings to suit all preferences and are delighted to feature itineraries in the Mediterranean, Asia and Australia.

For further information, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 . Alternatively, simply choose your preferred enquiry from the collection below and make an online enquiry.

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What is it like to cruise on the Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship - Here is our Review!

We cruised on the Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship in September 2021 on one of the first cruises from the UK. Here we describe our experience on board which will give you an insight into what cruising with Cunard is really like.

We booked our cruise on the Queen Elizabeth using my Blue Light Card  which gave us a discount and a fantastic price of £369 for the 4 nights cruise. In this post we describe our experiences on board this ship so you can decide if a Cunard cruise on the Queen Elizabeth is for you.

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Cruising at Christmas with Cunard – What do the ships look like?

Embarkation and our first day on board - Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Review

After a very slick testing experience and embarkation process at Southampton, we were on board by 1530. 

As we walked on to the ship we were welcomed by staff in traditional Cunard Uniform and a stunning peacock floral display. Looking around the beautiful wooden interior of the ship it certainly felt like we had been taken back to a different era of cruising.

We had booked a guaranteed standard balcony cabin and had been allocated a cabin on deck 8 towards the aft of the ship. To comply with the safety regulations we headed to our cabin to watch the safety video and report to our muster station which was really easy to do. First impressions of the cabin are really good, spacious with a sofa and decent sized balcony and lots of storage. We filmed a cabin tour which can be found at the end of this post.

After a walk around the top deck we met our friends at the Commodore Club situated right at the front of the ship on deck 10. A stunning lounge full of Cunard pictures and nostalgia. 

As we hadn’t eaten since breakfast we  decided to go and find a snack. We headed  to the Golden Lion Pub which serves food but it was fully booked. So we went to the buffet to be told it had just shut at 4pm. We headed to the restaurant to also be told that food had finished there too and there are no other options for dining on the ship until 6pm. This was disappointing and a first for us as food on all our other cruises has never been hard to find!

While we were in the Britannia restaurant we decided to see where our table was for dinner and found that even though we had linked our bookings with our friends we were not sat on a table for 4 but 2 tables for 2 which were only inches away from another table. There were no closing of tables to promote social distancing that we had experienced on our previous cruises post pandemic. 

We decided to try to speak to the Maitre’d to see if we could change to a table of 4 but unfortunately this proved impossible. We asked the staff in the restaurant if we could speak to someone and we were told in a very rude and dismissive manner that we couldn’t be helped and that we had to come back at 6om. After such a frosty response we decided to find someone else to speak to and was met with not only another rude response but also a shrug of the shoulders, and told to come back at 6. In all the 25 cruises (with the exception of MSC Opera in 2018!) we have been on we have never been spoken too like this. Appalled and pretty angry we decided to head to a bar!

At the aft of the ship on deck 9 is the Lido Pool. Here there was a celtic duo Shane Moran and Cameron Ross performing who were very good and we enjoyed a drink in the sunshine. Unfortunately the wind picked up and we were getting cold so we heading inside and found the Gin and Fizz bar. Must say after our dealings with the disappointing dining staff the bar service we recieved at both these venues was exceptional which was a relief. 

6pm arrived and we returned to the Brittania restaurant and spoke to a lady at the entrance. We explained our concerns regarding our allocated table but were told that she couldn’t change it maybe we could sort it out tomorrow….a little exasperated we asked were there any other tables available at all in the whole restaurant that we could be moved too and after a few minutes she did reluctantly come up with a solution and we were allocated an empty table for the 4 of us.  That was hard work but we got there in the end!

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Our table 515 was next to the window over looking the promenade and our waiter Dave was a delight. We enjoyed a fabulous meal, starters of Rissoto of Wild Mushroons, Crab and Shrimp Skagen, Roasted Cauliflower Soup. Mains of  Medallions of Pork and Palliard of Beef went down a treat. For dessert we had Sticky Mango Rice and Chocolate Marquise. We must say our actual dining experience as we sailed away from Southampton in the Britannia was superb and we left there very contented and full.

After dinner we found the Queens Room where house band Alchemy were playing. What a fabulous venue this is. We had a lovely time, listening to the band and watching some fabulous dancers too. So good to see dancing is back!

Excellent service in the Queens Room too and we had our first Perfect Serve Gins – Queen Victoria – which were delicious! The Bloody Mary’s were good too. 

Then we went to the Golden Lion Pub to watch the live music and the Royal Court Theatre Orchestra were playing. Well we thought Cunard would be a quiet, stuffy affair but how wrong were we, the pub was rocking! Singing and playing a selection modern and old hits they had the majority of people in their feet. It was such a fun end to a fabulous night.

Believe it or not it was now nearly 0100 and Paul sniffed out some food. The  Lido Buffet has snacks which are available until 0100 and Paul enjoyed a Cheese, Tomato, and Pesto panini and Chocolate pudding. Thankfully I spotted some cookies which I took back to the cabin ready for day 2!

After a disappointing start to the day, we have had the best evening and laughed so much with our friends Deb and Steve. Service has been exceptional and our first day definitely ended on a high.

Entertainment on board Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Review

I woke up at 0700 just in time to see the end of a lovely sunrise and managed to drag Paul out of bed 2 hours later in time to make it to the Lido for the buffet breakfast before it closed at 10:30. The choice and standard of food available was excellent, we both had a cooked breakfast with Paul finishing with what he described as the the most chocolaty chocolate muffin he’d ever had.

We then headed to reception to change some reservations as the app was being a tad unresponsive. This was quickly resolved so we then went to find the garden lounge which was showing the football. This was a decision that Paul would later regret as his beloved spurs sank to a miserable 3-0 defeat.

However, on a positive note the Garden Lounge is a lovely venue on deck 9, mid ship, just between the Lido Buffet Restaurant and the Pavillion Pool. We received fabulous service by Gary and Bogden with the added bonus of bowls of crisps and nuts provided with drinks.

Bingo was next, and our investment of $30 won us nothing! So we decided to try our luck at the quiz. Unfortunately another poor result with a dismal 11/20.

It was now time to get ready for the Black and White Gala Night. We put on our finery and went to the Britannia Restaurant for dinner. Starters of Madeira Duck Parfait and Golden Beetroot were delicious. I went for Beef Wellington which was cooked perfectly and Paul had venison with roast vegetables and creamy cabbage which he throughly enjoyed. The meal was finished with an excellent lemon soufflé with lemoncello sauce, and a chocolate brownie and service was excellent throughout.

With dinner done it was time for the Top Hat show at the Royal theatre. It was an enjoyable show but we were eager to get to the Queens Room as soon as it finished to watch the Big Band.

Big Band Night in the magnificent ballroom was such a wonderful experience. A 12 piece orchestra played Big Band Tunes from a bygone era and it was just magical. The dance floor filled up with excellent dancers and the professional dancers on the ship put on spectacular performance too. This was a very special moment!

Up next was Shaun and Cameron the Celtic Duo who were not only fabulous musicians but very funny too!  It was their last night on the ship as they were getting off in Liverpool tomorrow, which was a shame as we would of loved to see them again.

After a late night wander around the lit up Lido and Upper Deck we decided to have one for the road at the Commodore Club. A very stylish and comfortable area, with the added bonus of bring entertained by Clarolyn Maier, a very talented pianist and singer who covered Hits of Broadway to the Great American Songbook.

After such a fantastic night, we couldn’t resist a little visit to the late night snacks at the Lido, where again the little pies and paninis went down well.

We are loving our time on the Queen Elizabeth and can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Review - Liverpool and our third day on board.

I woke at 0530 to find we had already arrived in Liverpool. Unfortunately the sky was drab and grey, so no sunrise photos to be had. However it was great to look just to the right and see the iconic Liver Building! 

On the Queen Elizabeth you can have breakfast delivered to your cabin free of charge. You just need to tick the items on the menu card and indicate the time you want it and hang it on the door by 0100.  Our breakfast arrived as requested at 0930 and was thoroughly enjoyed.

We are planning on uploading a full tour of this beautiful ship to our You Tube Channel so after our leisurely breakfast we started filming some footage. We got as far as deck 2 and spotted Deb and Steve in the Golden Lion Pub. Feeling it would be rude not to say hi, we popped in. Steve pointed out that there were 6 types of Bloody Mary’s on the menu. Not needing a lot of arm twisting we sampled one each and they were superb.

We dragged ourselves away from the pub and filmed some more for our ship tour and headed off to afternoon tea, we had booked this at reception the previous day as our app was not playing ball. 

We had heard such good things about the afternoon tea on Cunard but have to say we were fairly underwhelmed by what was on offer. No afternoon tea stand just a menu with a choice of sandwiches and cakes that came on small plates. The service was quite cold too. There wasn’t anything particularly wrong with anything but it was just not what we expected, we could have gone to the buffet and got exactly what we had been served. Talking to friends there are occasions where afternoon tea is served in the Queens Room with Silver Service but unfortunately that didn’t happen on our cruise.

The other frustrating thing was the dining room was virtually empty but they still sat two other couples about two feet away from our table. We understand it is more convenient for staff but with post covid social distancing being encouraged elsewhere, we thought this was a bit odd.

It was nearly time for sail away so we headed back to our cabin. We had a small bottle of bubbly as a welcome gift, every cabin receives one on Cunard. Deb and Steve bought their bottle up too and we enjoyed a sail away with bubbles from Liverpool on our balcony. 

As we were sailing out to sea we went to the Lido deck as a Saxophonist and DJ were playing a set. It was great music to listen too but a little bit nippy. We were all given blankets and had a fab time! 

For dinner we headed to our usual table 515 and again recieved fabulous service from Dave and Michael. We started with Salt Beef Hash and Horseradish, followed by White Radish and Asian Slaw Salad. Then mains of Lemon Sole and Spinach, Feta and Mushroom Strudel. All just simply delicious. The sun was starting to set so I went for a walk around the decks to capture some photo’s while Paul enjoyed a warm Bakewell Tart and Vanilla Custard. 

I met Paul, Deb and Steve in the Garden Lounge so we could watch the Dixieland Band. Great tunes from the deep south kept us entertained. Next stop was the  Yacht Club on deck 10 where Amethyst Duo were playing. This is another a beautiful venue with a huge chandelier in the centre that changes colour.  

On the daily programme we noticed there was a quiz due to start in the Golden Lion Pub so decided to head to deck 2 to join in but unfortunately the pub was packed and there were no seats available. 

We walked next door to the Queens Room where the Orchestra where joined by the vocalists Jack and Ester. In hindsight we were so glad we couldn’t get in the pub as we had a wonderful end to the evening. There was a table for 4 free just to the side of the orchestra which gave us a fabulous view of the dance floor and of the band. 

Playing popular songs in the style of the different genres of dances, they even inspired us to get up and Waltz! We had been practising in our small kitchen at home, we didn’t disgrace ourselves but we definitely need more practice! 

The orchestra are just superb, they play such diverse music and are such fun to watch. We just loved the trombone version of Macerana! Tonight was such a fabulous night. 

By the time the entertainment finished it was the early hours again and guess what the boys were peckish! So up to the late night buffet which we just managed to catch before it closed where they enjoyed  pannini tuna melts and a cheese platter.

Cruising with Cunard has surprised us in so many ways and unfortunately this cruise is going way to fast.

Cunard Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Review - Our last day on board.

We put the alarm on for 8 so we could get up for breakfast but quickly turned it off and woke up at 10! Still the Coffee and Godiva chocolates which are left on our bed each evening started the day well. 

John Peters was doing a talk this morning called ‘Tornado Down’. For those that don’t know of John he came to the worlds attention in January 1991 during the first Gulf War when his bruised and battered face flashed onto television screens around the world. His description of his experience was horrific, how he managed to keep mentally positive and how we can overcome even our worst fears and nightmares, is a true lesson to us all in what is important in life. It was an emotional and thought provoking presentation and I am glad I had some tissues in my hand bag! Cunard have enrichment talks every day and we are so glad we got the chance to see this. He was actually in the Theatre but the talk was televised throughout the ships bars and lounges which was great. 

Lunch today was in the Golden Lion Pub. Paul and I both had Ploughman’s lunch and Deb and Steve both had Fish and Chips, which we all agreed was really tasty, The food in the pub is all included at no extra charge, it does get very busy so we recommend getting in early. 

As it was our last day on board it was sadly time to pack. Suitcases that you want to be taken off the ship have to be outside your Cabin between 5pm and 11pm. 

Packing done the boys decided that we should have another go at the bingo, as today was Snowball Jackpot Bingo Finale. So we headed to the Garden Lounge on deck 9. After a very tense time, we had 1 number on two tickets to win the jackpot of $760…..alas a lady on the next table got her number before us and won! 

Next up was the quiz where we scored a respectable 15, but sadly missed out on  winning a Cunard pen! Feeling a bit peckish the boys popped to the Lido restaurant and came back with a pepperoni pizza and some cakes and scones from the Lido Buffet Restaurant next door. It all went down very well.

After the fabulous evening we had last night we all decided we wanted to get to the Queens Room early to get our front row seats by the band for Dancing in the Streets.While we were waiting we decided to play Crib, after a tense time the score was 1:1 then the band started! 

The Band with Jack and Ester played and sang hits of Motown, Soul and just really great party music. The dance floor was packed with everyone strutting their stuff, and the four of us happily joined them. The band did 4 sets over 3 1/2 hours and even after all that the whole of the Queens Room, including us were shouting for more.  It was such a fun night that had sadly come to an end. 

Hungry again we paid our last visit to the late night snack buffet. More pies and cheese plates were consumed, as we all discussed what a fabulous time we had all had!

Our Verdict of our Cruise on the Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship - Will we cruise with Cunard again?

Our cruise on the Queen Elizabeth has been full of surprises. After a frosty start we all agreed that we had had a very enjoyable time on board. The ship is elegant and sophisticated and takes you back to a bygone era which we loved. We knew that the standard of food and service was going to be excellent but what surprised us the most was the variety of entertainment on board and how much fun it was. We also filmed a vlog series on board which you can watch below.

We also were very impressed with the cabins that we booked. We stayed in a standard balcony cabin and our friends booked a deluxe inside cabin and you can have a look around both of these cabins in the videos below.

We had such a great time on the Queen Elizabeth that we have booked another cruise on this ship for December, we are also planning a transatlantic cruise on the Queen Mary 2 too! We are looking forward to seeing what this ship will look like at Christmas and we can’t wait to be back on board!

View more video blogs on YouTube > > >

Queen Elizabeth Cruise Ship Review - Cabins

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Cunard Line Queen Elizabeth Cruise Review

Elegant art deco detail meets british formalities on the high seas..

Updated February 20, 2016

The newest member of the three-ship Cunard fleet, the Queen Elizabeth aims for a distinguished cruise experience glimmering with a touch of English royalty. Elegance is promised in Cunard literature, along with “spacious luxury and excellent service that attracts discerning travelers.” That kind of hyperbole is rampant in the travel industry, of course, but marketing push aside, the Cunard Line does indeed have a storied legacy to live up to.

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Cunard Line, and Its Queens

About our cruise, the experience, our cabin: balcony, other cabins, britannia restaurant, lido restaurant & lido grill, asado, jasmine, indian bistro, aztec, the verandah, the golden lion, in-room dining, café carinthia, commodore club & admiral’s lounge, the yacht club, queens room, the garden lounge, midships bar, the grills lounge, royal spa & fitness centre, other recreation, other decks, shows & entertainment, empire casino, other venues, children’s facilities, internet facilities, dress codes, general health & safety, tips, alcohol policies & loyalty program.

Starting in 1840, Cunard was the first company to schedule regular trans-Atlantic crossings between Southampton, England and New York. Over the years the line established other seagoing firsts—the first ship to be lighted by electricity, the first “wireless” (radio) at sea, the first gym and health center, the first swimming pool, and more. In 1936 Cunard’s ocean liner the Queen Mary famously launched a new era in sea travel, and in 1940 the original Queen Elizabeth debuted as the largest passenger ship ever built (although this 83,650-ton Queen Elizabeth was destroyed by fire in 1972, it retained its title as the largest until 1996). At the end of WWII, Winston Churchill claimed the two ships—requisitioned by the British government to ferry 1.5 million troops around the world—had shortened the war in Europe by at least a year. There was also the legendary ocean liner QE2 launched in 1969—after 6 million miles the QE2 left the Cunard fleet in 2008; its ultimate fate is undecided.

Acquired by Miami-based Carnival Corporation in 1998, the Cunard Line got a new lease on life with the arrival of the one-of-a-kind Queen Mary 2, in 2004—at the time the largest, tallest and most expensive ever built. This was followed in 2007 by Queen Victoria, and in 2010 a new incarnation of Queen Elizabeth went to sea, a 90,400-ton, 2068-passenger vessel that is virtually identical in size and layout to Queen Victoria—both considerably smaller than Queen Mary 2. The main differences between the younger “siblings” are in décor, a few venue name changes, and Lizzie boasts an additional 39 cabins. The Queen Mary 2, on the other hand, remains an outlier—not only for Cunard but for the industry as a whole; it’s a true ocean liner designed for speedy trans-Atlantic crossings, much like her predecessors in the Cunard Line.

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The new Queen Elizabeth gets around: In her first year alone, the vessel visited 108 different destinations. Upcoming sailings navigate Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia and the South Pacific, many of them starting or ending at Cunard’s home port, Southampton (70 miles southwest of London’s Heathrow Airport); itineraries primarily encompasses cruises longer than a week.

With expectations high and our finest duds carefully packed, we boarded Queen Elizabeth with heightened anticipation.

First things first: Queen Elizabeth is one of the most beautifully designed cruise ships we’ve had the pleasure of sailing. Structurally, the vessel has a lot in common with Signature Class ships built for Holland America—both Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam share the same hull design. But from there, physical similarities end, and the ship’s lavishly detailed art deco interior spaces are a loving tribute to 1930s design fads from when the original Queen Elizabeth first sailed. The main dining room, the Britannia Restaurant, is a stunner; the lobby atrium, flush with polished wood, gleams warmly. These and other common areas of the ship were transporting, as befits a vessel with a direct connection to royalty (HM The Queen named this ship in Southampton in 2010, as she did the QE2 in 1967; at the age of 12, Princess Elizabeth also attended the naming of the original Queen Elizabeth in 1938).

But soon after embarkation, a nagging thought emerged: Was this Queen Elizabeth providing a luxury cruise experience, as Cunard advertises, or was that level of service and amenities limited only to those who signed up for the pricey Princess Grill or Queens Grill suites? While those guests had their private dining room and private sun deck, suites represent just 12 percent of the ship’s accommodations. Most of us were lodged in simpler digs and, from our perspective, we disembarked feeling that Cunard’s luxury angle was oversold, particularly when it came to service, which was sometimes clunky or nonexistent. Some crewmembers went overboard adopting a stiff-upper-lip attitude and, frankly, overly prim formalities aren’t a turn-on for us (except from a bemused distance). Fortunately, our fellow cruisers—who were primarily British—were easy-going and not condescending at all; we felt quite at home.

Our balcony cabin measured 192 square feet inside (when comparing cruise lines note that Cunard’s advertised cabin sizes include the balcony square footage; most others do not). While this size was hardly cramped for two guests, by comparison, starting sizes for standard cabins on the ships of Seabourn and Silversea cruise lines are almost 50 percent larger. The bathroom was particularly unimpressive. Nonetheless our Queen Elizabeth cabin was attractively appointed, with more lighting and décor than is typical on mainstream cruise lines; fine bedding and quality bath products were another plus.

Meals should have been a standout on Queen Elizabeth, but they weren’t consistent. For all its sumptuous design, the Britannia Restaurant, was the biggest disappointment, with spotty service and middling food, especially at dinner, which was also noisy. The Lido Restaurant, the ship’s buffet, was just average. But lunch and dinner at The Verandah, the ship’s most upscale venue, was excellent and the wait staff shined. We think The Verandah is one of the best specialty restaurants at sea, well worth the surcharge. And the corner of the Lido that was converted into one of four different ethnic venues nightly was a very appealing alternative to the Britannia, also involving only a modest up-charge.

There were lots of smaller attributes to Queen Elizabeth we appreciated, such as the near absence of printed literature plugging the spa, art sales and other marketing that typically litters our cabin mailbox on other ships. There were none of those annoying art auctions to trip over, and ship photographers were not overly aggressive about making their quota for the day. We loved the well-stocked library, and the ship’s retail outlets had a much broader range of wares than most of the mainstream cruise lines. The shows in the Royal Court Theatre were well executed, and the live music percolating through various areas of the ship was welcome. And the daily list of activities was noteworthy: From white glove tea service to bridge lessons, and ballroom dance class to watercolor art lessons, there was plenty to keep us occupied while at sea.

What stuck with us well after we returned home was the accessible elegance of the Queen Elizabeth. The vast majority of passengers dressed to the nines for Formal (and even Semi-Formal) nights, and we enjoyed doing our best to keep up. While the ship’s British lineage is often experienced through an American veneer—Cunard is owned by Carnival Corp. and the ship’s tender is the Yankee dollar—for the average American, the Queen Elizabeth won’t feel like a mass-market experience. It’s a fine option for anyone who loves the monarchy and all things English; couples who want a showcase for their evening wear or to show off their (ballroom) dance moves will also feel right at home.

With itineraries that reach for the four corners of the globe, Queen Elizabeth is a ship we look forward to boarding on a future cruise—but we’ll hope that the service issues we encountered on this voyage will have been smoothed out.

Editor’s Note: In March 2013, after our voyage, Cunard announced that it was loosening its dress code for its cruises going forward. Formal evenings remain, requiring “dinner jacket, tuxedo or dark suit with tie for gentlemen; evening or cocktail dress for ladies.” Other nights are now designated as Informal—"jacket required, tie optional for gentlemen; cocktail dress, stylish separates or equivalent for ladies."

More than any other mainstream cruise line, a “class system” is still in effect aboard Cunard’s vessels. This anachronism dates to the early days of steamship travel, when guests of different cabin classes did not mingle together; the upper classes had their own dining rooms and entire decks of older ships might be off-limits to those in lower class, “steerage” cabins. On today’s Queen Elizabeth there are four “classes” of passengers, yet the vast majority of the ship is open to all.

Britannia Class represents the standard accommodations for Queen Elizabeth, in the usual assortment of Inside, Oceanview and Balcony cabins—in total they represent 84 percent of the ship’s 1034 cabins. We were comfortably lodged in a Balcony Cabin for our journey.

One step up is the Britannia Club level, 38 balcony cabins on Deck 8 that are essentially identical to balcony cabins on lower decks, but guests at the club level have a separate room adjoining the main dining room without set seating times (though sharing the same menu). Fares for Britannia Club cabins average about 40 percent higher than those for the least expensive balcony cabins—a steep up-charge for what is essentially just a more private and quiet main dining room.

Next level up is the Princess Grill category, which represent the entry-level suites. These start at 335 square feet (including balcony), and add in such extras as marble bathrooms with both tub and shower; guests here dine in a private restaurant on Deck 11 with an elevated menu. Top category is the Queens Grill suites, larger still, adding in butler service, nightly canapés and another private dining room on Deck 11. Both Princess Grill and Queens Grill share a lounge as well as a sun terrace on Deck 12 (where meals can be enjoyed when the weather suits).

Non-suite Balcony Cabins represent slightly more than half the accommodations on Queen Elizabeth, so this is the yardstick by which we’ll judge the ship. Our cabin was attractively appointed with plush bedding and great lighting, but it was not what we would call “luxury” in most other respects.

The cabin measured 192 square feet inside (Cunard says Balcony Cabins start at 228 square feet, but this figure includes the balcony). While we’ve definitely stayed in smaller cabins on mainstream cruise lines, the cabins of true luxury lines are larger: The smallest cabins on the ships of Silversea are 240 square feet (not including balcony); the smallest of Seabourn Cruises’ cabins are 277 square feet (admittedly, their cruises are also quite a bit more expensive than those of Cunard Line). But size aside, we were generally happy with our quarters.

Waiting for us in our cabin when we checked in was a bottle of Pol Acker sparkling wine, a French blanc de blanc we’d never heard of. While the wine is standard for all guests, there was also a plate of chocolate covered strawberries, gifted by our travel agent.

Tastefully appointed, the bedroom area of our cabin yielded no surprises, but the linens wrapping our mattress were upgraded, with a plush pillowtop concealing most of the seam between the two single mattresses, and a cushy duvet on top. The sleeping arrangements were very comfortable. We loved having ample light for reading in bed. Daylight from the balcony opening was well concealed behind a sheer, a blackout liner, and a decorative fabric curtain.

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The compact bathroom for our cabin was interchangeable with bathrooms for most other mainstream cruise lines—that is, there was nothing special about it. The small shower (only) measured 30 inches wide and 27 inches deep, at its maximum, with a thin synthetic curtain that could be pulled around—not exactly a generous cubicle for showering. Towels were inconsistently replaced by our cabin steward, even when they were hung up to dry; two pools towels were left for us under the sink. The inclusion of Gilchrist & Soames amenities—shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion—and a jar of cotton swabs were the only “extras” beyond what we usually find in typical cruise ship bathrooms. In all, we were disappointed that the bathroom was no better than ordinary.

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One of the best features of our cabin was abundant lighting. There were two main systems: One covered three ceiling lights in the entry hallway, a light on the wall opposite the bed and a light at the balcony door; the second illuminated two ceiling lights above the bed pillows. Both of these could be turned on at the cabin entry as well as switches on both sides of the bed. There were also three reading lights—two at the bed on nightstands and one next to the couch—plus an additional pair of lights over the desk.

The TV in our room was a 22-inch Sharp monitor that pivoted, allowing decent viewing from the couch or bed pillows. The selection of entertainment was diverse. There were three channels dedicated to English-language movies—about 40 in all, each played on one or two days of the cruise, several times in a row (most of the films were from the previous year, with a few older classics thrown in the mix). There were also German-, Spanish- and French-language movies on other channels. One channel each was dedicated to reruns of popular UK and US television programs, along with the major news and sports networks, plus 10 music channels.

At the desk were several outlets for different plugs, including two US. An additional plug in the bathroom, for “shavers only,” could be switched for either 120 or 230 volt.

Under each bed was an under-dresser for storing clothes. There were three individual closets at the cabin entry—two measured slightly over 22 inches, the third was 25 inches wide. In the closets was a pair of bathrobes, slippers, and a safe.

The cabin minibar fridge was stocked with Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and ginger ale ($2.65 each), Cunard-brand water, still or sparkling at $3.95 per 1.5 liter. The latter could be purchased in bulk—six for the price of five. Spirits and other drinks could be supplied through our cabin steward.

The balcony measured about 54 square feet, which was sufficient for two chairs and a small table that we could use—just barely—for a simple meal. The front of our balcony was glass with a railing; some cabins had balconies with metal rather than glass fronting the space.

We did not stay in the rest of these cabins, but we have summaries here provided by Cunard Line. Note that any photos below may be provided directly by the cruise line and not our reviewer.

Our Standard staterooms are anything but ordinary. The smallest is more like a “deluxe” guestroom on other cruise ships. And they’re beautifully decorated with fine prints on the walls, soft colours on the sofas and coverlets and turndown service when it’s time to retire. Guests dine in the Britannia Restaurant with a choice of an early or late sitting.

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At any time of the day your luxury stateroom provides a welcome enclave of comfort and good taste. Wrap yourself in the soft bathrobe, ease into your slippers, then settle down to a film on your TV. Our turndown service sets the tone for a comfortable night’s sleep. Guests dine at a reserved table for either early or late dining in the Britannia Restaurant.

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Club Balcony

Cherish the relaxing lounge area of your private balcony stateroom with direct access to the ocean breeze. Comfortable and stylish, your luxury Britannia Club Balcony stateroom shall be your inviting home from home throughout your memorable voyage. Guests in Britannia Club Balcony staterooms dine in the intimate Britannia Club restaurant.

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Princess Grill Suites

For guests in our luxurious Princess Grill Suites, the delights of our Grills Experience are more pronounced than ever before. Your lavish suite occupies up to 513 square feet, with flourishes that include personalised stationery, a Bon Voyage bottle of wine, fresh fruit and concierge service. Guests dine at a reserved table in the single seating Princess Grill Restaurant.

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Queens Grill Suites

Queens Grill takes everything that is so wonderfully indulgent about our Grills Experience and raises it to exalted new heights. Luxuriate in your own secluded haven of up to approximately 2,131 square feet featuring marble bathrooms and whirlpool baths. Guests dine at a reserved table in the single seating Queens Grill Restaurant.

{{photo_gallery "Other Cabin 5 Photos"}} For those of us not parked in suites, there were four main dining options nightly. Although Queen Elizabeth does not have a large variety of dining venues, the diversity of food on offer was impressive. The lovely main dining room, Britannia Restaurant, had a menu with an ambitiously French bent, and though the food—from frogs legs to venison to fish curry—didn’t always live up to expectations, the variety on offer was surprising, with good options for vegetarians. Although the buffet Lido Restaurant was just average, each evening one corner of the venue was converted into one of four different ethnic menus, where we enjoyed pleasing food at a modest surcharge.

Queen Elizabeth’s alternative dining option, The Verandah, was excellent—a refined showcase for French cuisine with polished service and quiet surrounds. Our lunch and dinner here were among the best we’ve experienced at sea, well worth the a la carte surcharge.

But all was not perfect. The Britannia Restaurant suffered from a cacophony of noise and hustle-bustle, with uneven service from an under-trained wait staff. And the Lido Grill, an outdoor extension of the Lido buffet, was understaffed at peak hours. While these problems would not be unusual on a lower priced cruise ship, with Cunard positioning itself as a luxury cruise experience the line should deliver a higher, more consistent level of service.

Those staying in Britannia Club cabins were invited to dine in the Britannia Club dining room, at their leisure between 6:30 and 9 p.m. The menus appeared to be identical to that of the Britannia Restaurant, but the 84-seat Club dining room—located immediately next to the main dining room on Deck 2—was a quieter, more subdued space, and guests appeared to receive more personalized service. The Club was also open for breakfast and lunch daily.

Queen Elizabeth’s main dining room is one classy-looking venue, a two-story affair that straddles decks 2 and 3 aft. Awash in polished woods, swooping curves and art deco angles, the restaurant should be a showcase for upscale cuisine in a soothing environment. Alas, that was not what we found. The food, somewhat ambitious and with a French accent, was okay, but it could have been better. But the real problem was the service and ambience.

The first night of our cruise, meal service was disorganized, our waiter inattentive to detail, and the noisy bustle of diners and wait staff settling into their routines was clamorous; buckets of cleaning products sat a few feet from our table. On our second night here, our waiter was less distracted, but the noise level was still loud, capped off by a collision at the kitchen entrance that sent plates and food flying (at least once per meal there was the sound of crashing plates from somewhere). At breakfast, which was slow to arrive, we were asked if we wanted toast and, since we’d ordered French toast, we passed. When our French toast was delivered, we were asked again—white or wheat? Inattention to details like these was a recurring issue.

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There were two seatings nightly in the Britannia Restaurant, at 6 and 8:30 p.m., while next door open seating was provided in the Brittania Club, but only for those in that cabin category. A sign said there were no tables for two available in the main dining room, but we spotted several (no doubt in high demand). Breakfast and lunch were served daily.

Each evening our first course was hit-and-miss. A bowl of beef consommé with barley and vegetables was delivered lukewarm. A salad of spinach, citrus, pecans and red onion had spry greens (a strong point throughout), but was delivered undressed. When we asked for dressing only one option was brought over—the menu had offered a choice—and then ladled on in excess (a recurring problem). Roasted butternut squash topped with apple and pecan salad and micro greens was beautifully presented, but the dish was bland—it needed spark. But avocado soup with salmon was silky and rich—a satisfying cold starter. Classic escargots à la Bourguignonne were properly redolent with garlic and butter. Other items on the appetizer menu included crispy Thai vegetable spring roll, shrimp and salmon cakes, frogs’ legs Provençale, wild mushroom and goat cheese risotto, and cheddar cheese soup.

Entrées were a little more consistent, including a grilled sirloin, cooked right to order and served with hunky fried potatoes. On formal night a smallish broiled lobster tail was served with sesame-crusted fried shrimp and rich Newburg sauce, a tasty treat. There was a light Mediterranean vegetable tarte tatin, topped with a goat cheese bavarois—a nice find for vegetarians. But a fettucini with salmon was disappointing: Some of the pasta was dried out, as though the noodles had been sitting under a heat lamp. And chicken Kiev was distinctly unambitious, and we weren’t much impressed by the duck à l’orange. Other entrées included a free-range, mushroom-stuffed guinea fowl, braised venison, lamb shanks with root vegetables, and a baked salmon fillet and wild mushroom Wellington.

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Each night there were at least two appetizers and two entrées suited for vegetarians, and “spa” selections were available nightly.

Desserts were generally decadent and fairly varied. We enjoyed the Bacardi Limon crème brûlée, a chocolate marquise, and a pavlova topped with fresh strawberries. And when our sweet tooth was sated the cheese plate was worth trying, with three selections that changed nightly, served with a few walnuts, dried apricots and a roll.

Breakfasts were solid, with a range of cold and hot items. This included juices, a fruit smoothie of the day, sliced melon, a mixed fruit salad and compote of stewed fruits; regular and low-fat yogurts were offered, along with assorted cold cuts and cheeses. Cereals included packaged options, Swiss muesli, hot oatmeal and Cream of Wheat; baked goods were tasty (Danish, croissants, banana bread) and there were pancakes (blueberry or banana available), waffles and French toast. Eggs could be prepared to order (with low cholesterol available), along with omelets to order, eggs benedict, grilled Scottish kippers and poached haddock, with side orders of bacon (English or “streaky”), chicken sausages, Cumberland sausage, mushrooms, baked beans and grilled tomatoes. One complaint: The first morning our coffee was both weak and lukewarm, but on request it was quickly replaced with a hotter, slightly stronger batch.

The mood at lunch was more relaxed and quiet, and service was much better (the room was less than half full). A salad of garden greens was pleasing, perky with horseradish and dill flavors. Cold cranberry soup was rich with yogurt, not too sweet (or sour). For entrées we tried the barramundi and found it to be tough and fishy-tasting; a dish of beef and wine ravioli was pretty boring. A broccoli quiche was just okay. Other entrées included gnocchi with confit of duck and shiitake mushrooms, a fish curry and vegetable moussaka. Dessert of crème caramel was fine, while mud pie—made with chocolate mousse—was only fair; a more bittersweet flavor and a silkier texture would have been welcome.

The buffet restaurant took up most of the aft portion of Deck 9, and it was a busy spot, especially at breakfast. Fortunately we didn’t have too much trouble finding a table in the morning. Although the buffet offered a relatively good spread we found variety somewhat lacking from one day to the next—the four or five choices of prepared salads, for instance, did not change during our entire cruise.

Just outside the main seating area on the outdoor aft deck was the Lido Grill, open for lunch daily. But the two times we visited we found just one person staffing the grill, and a line for burgers. The cook was doing his best to keep up, but a second person should have been assigned, particularly since the vats of condiments (lettuce, tomato, onion, etc.) were often virtually empty. Another frustration, back inside: Almost daily, the stack of plates marked “cold plates” was filled with plates that were warm or hot—yep, just what we like to load our salad greens onto!

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At breakfast we found a fairly predictable selection, with a few items added that catered to the English crowd. Cereals included Kellogg’s brand boxes and a few healthy choices, along with hot oatmeal. There was a good range of whole fruits—apples, pears, plums, peaches, oranges, kiwi, grapes and banana, along with sliced pineapple, grapefruit, melons, and strawberries. There were yogurts—flavored or plain—and we looked forward to fruit smoothies, freshly prepared each morning (a different flavor daily, such as watermelon, strawberry and banana). There was lox with bagels, onions, tomato, capers, plus various cold cuts and cheeses with crackers and walnuts. Various breads and pastries were available, along with small jars of Wilkin & Sons preserve—raspberry, strawberry, apricot, orange marmalade. Hot items included a pancake and waffle station (in addition to maple syrup there was chocolate and banana-butterscotch topping) and an omelet station. Sides included bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, hash browns, baked beans—all the makings for a traditional English breakfast.

At lunch there was a modest salad bar including an unchanging array of five or six prepared salads, and we found a soup of the day—roasted shallot and butternut squash soup, cream of broccoli, stilton and spring onions, tomato soup. There was a pizza station, but the pies lacked spark and flavor. The carvery had a different selection daily, such as lemon and garlic chicken, prime rib and beef top round. Entrées included veal scaloppini with wild mushroom sauce, chicken schnitzel, vegetable moussaka, fillet of haddock, Somerset pork cider pot and a mixed vegetable quiche. Among the side dishes were steamed pesto new potatoes, cauliflower polonaise, steamed vegetables, creamed spinach with pine nuts, and pulao rice. The daily selection of desserts features puddings, cakes and cookies, and there was an ice cream station with vanilla and chocolate soft serve ice cream and cones.

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At dinner each night there was a theme buffet. This included nights dedicated to Italian, Scandinavian, American, English Carvery and Oriental. On the final night of the cruise there was a beautifully presented spread of seafood that came out, including prawns, mussels, salmon, tuna, fresh mahi mahi and cod, offered with various sauces. Also of note each evening was that one corner of the seating area each night was transformed into a specialty restaurant with a modest cover charge.

The ship’s standard beer and wine list was available, along with cocktails from the Garden Lounge and Lido Bar, on either end of the restaurant. A station was set up for drinks on both sides of the buffet, with coffee, decaf, and about a dozen teas from Twinings available. Iced tea, cranberry juice cocktail and, in the morning, orange drink were available; we also noted Horlicks powder for malted milk.

We were pleasantly surprised by this “alternative dining” venue. These days, it’s not unusual for cruises to devote a section of their buffet to a surcharge restaurant at night. But often these seem like little more than the buffet with window dressing, with minimal improvement on food or ambience. But Queen Elizabeth got it right, with not one but four alternating restaurants serving distinct meals for two or three nights in a row.

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There’s Asado, with grilled meats and side dishes served South American style. Jasmine offered a pan-Asian menu, and Indian Bistro offered a panoply of curries. The fourth option, Aztec, with Mexican fare, wasn't provided on our cruise (but usually is on cruises longer than a week). Menus were short, but portions were huge, and with a modest cover charge of $10 we found all of them to be a good value, the setting relaxed and not crowded.

For Asado, an appetizer combo delivered a spicy beef empanada, coriander and coconut crab cake, and ceviche of lobster and halibut. For mains we were invited to order two items from either the rotisserie—pulled pork marinated in chili paste and Argentinean spices or chimichurri chicken marinated in olive oil and garlic—or the grill. The latter option included rump of lamb in oregano, garlic and ancho chilies, beef short rib marinated in beer and lemon, a chicken skewer, grilled chorizo sausage, or prawns marinated in Serrano chili and citrus zest. There wasn’t one of the four we tried that we didn’t like. With by side dishes (avocado and sweet potato fritters were fabulous), and dessert (chocolate banana cheesecake, caramel flan or a donut with lime-pineapple-coconut ice cream), we were stuffed when we left and still had food on our plates.

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We returned the following night for Jasmine, and again, food was plentiful. The meal started with a pot of jasmine tea, with an hourglass-style timer. A tasting platter came with Korean barbecue pork spare ribs, shrimp toast, a chicken lollipop coated in sesame seeds, California style maki rolls, and wakame, pickled ginger and sour cucumber. There was a choice of two soups: Vietnamese phở, or Thai tom kha gai with crab, chicken and coconut milk—both were flavorful and spicy, but salt overwhelmed the tom kha gai. Dim sum was delivered—fried shumai and seafood Rangoon—and then off to our choice of one of three entrées: crispy duck with pancake, Mandarin-style crispy chili beef, and kropeck-crusted shrimp with sweet and sour sauce. Again, there wasn’t one we didn’t like, but the shrimp was most tantalizing. Dessert was another combo plate—a glass of mango lassi, coconut-caramel cheesecake, and a dish new to us called Wattalapam, a cinnamon and cashew caramel custard which seemed like a variation on Mexican flan.

On a roll, we signed up for Indian Bistro, and again it reached well beyond the typical cruise menu. We'd caution that spices weren’t particularly watered down for non-Indian palates. Starters to share included tandoori chicken, lasoon wali macchli (garlic fried sole in yogurt and ginger), onion bhajis (fritters), sheikh kebab (minced lamb skewers) and aloo chana chaat. The latter was the winner here—greens, potatoes and chick peas with tamarind, dates and pomegranate. The quantity of food that followed was truly overwhelming. Sides of dal, aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) and makai saagwalla (corn and spinach), mains like Malabar fish and shrimp curry, lamb Jalfrezi and chicken tikka masala, with naan bread and basmati rice. Desserts were equally memorable: fried bread pudding with cardamom, pistachio, and saffron-spiked condensed milk; rice and coconut pudding served atop pineapple carpaccio; and a cappuccino crème brûlée.

There’s also Aztec, which wasn’t offered on our cruise, but we hope to try in the future. The Mexican menu featured starters of guacamole and chips, tamales, chile relleno and tacquitos, with entrées ranging from chicken with pecan-prune mole, a port and chorizo skewer, crepes with shrimp, and beef tenderloin.

Vegetarians should note that, at all four of the options, entrées were strictly meat, chicken or seafood based. But there were plenty of starters that were vegetarian, and we suspect a fairly diverse meat-free dinner could be composed on request.

In addition to the ship’s standard wine and cocktail list, there were themed drinks and wine to accompany each of the menus. And instead of an amuse-bouche a small cocktail sample was offered at the start of the meal. At Asado it was a mini caiprinha—cachaça, lime and passion fruit puree. With Jasmine, we enjoyed a sake taster.

Each venue was open for only two or three nights—the schedule was posted in the Lido Restaurant. While the space seated only a few dozen, it wasn't full on any night we ate here, though reservations are still advised.

Styled after the original Queen Elizabeth’s Verandah Grill, a favorite of the cruising elite in the 30s, this is the modern-day vessel’s top dining room. Seating only about 60, with a surcharge for dinner and (on sea days) lunch, the menu focuses on French cuisine. Not only was the food exceptional, but service was spot on—proper and deferential, but not stuffy or condescending. The room is plush and inviting, with lots of space between tables, allowing for quiet, intimate meals. The wine list is heady, but the sommelier was knowledgeable, and didn’t push us towards pricier wines (of which there were many).

This is truly Queen Elizabeth’s special occasion spot, but—relative to specialty dining on other ships—we found the charge fair. Instead of a set price for the entire meal, items are priced a la carte. At dinner, appetizers were $6-$7, entrées $17-$18, desserts $6-$7—so budget about $30 for dinner, not including drinks or tip. At lunch, appetizers were $5-$7, entrées $11-$12. Only quibble: We experienced a fair amount of engine vibration here at lunch.

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For dinner there was a choice of cold and hot appetizers, every one of them mouth-watering. There was a lobster and shellfish salad, nuzzled against avocado and tomato jelly. For another, a lump of crab bathed in chilled asparagus and feta cream, lathered in crustacean foam. We loved the presentation of the homemade ravioli, plumped with fresh peas and parmigiano reggiano set against a pair of fried quail eggs encrusted with Guérande salt and floating in watercress jus—packed with flavor and not overly rich.

Hearty entrées included a rack of lamb for two, roasted in a salt crust dough and served with shallot potato cake and “stuffed” courgette. Beef fillet was accompanied by morels, baby vegetables and black truffle. The filet of sea bass was baked with a wild mushroom crust, topped with a dollop of onion-fennel marmalade, and floating on a ying-and-yang sea of sorrel sauce and chicken jus.

Perkiest dessert, in taste and presentation, was lemon tart, topped with peaks of braised meringue; the winged creature to its side was an almond wafer with a raspberry sorbet torso. We also liked the dark chocolate parfait filled with caramelized praline and topped with espresso semifreddo. Vanilla soufflé was infused with Edmond Briottet peach liqueur, and the cheese trolley was laden with fine options from England and France, followed close by a trolley with after-dinner drinks—aged rums and cognacs.

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Again at lunch the appetizers sparkled, including a chilled green apple and cucumber soup with lobster salpicon and blackberry sorbet. Also lovely to look at (and eat) was the scallop mousse framed with chunks of langoustine and served atop of a green bean risotto. For mains, the supreme of guinea fowl was accompanied by a potato parcel, the fillet of beef was served with an orange-cognac sauce and parmesan bistro fries, and the roast rack of pork—Noir de Bigorre—perched atop puy lentils and Morteau sausage.

In addition to the standard cocktail selection, the Verandah had the most extensive wine list, a collection notable for its breadth of both Old World and newer wineries from more than 15 countries, with an emphasis on France. Despite some headier selections (Château Lafite-Rothschild First Growth—$895 for 1981, $1650 for 1999), the bulk of the list was below $100. The menu also feature the “Collection de Rothschild,” the ship’s selection from the Bordeaux and New World vineyards of the storied winemaking family, including Opus One from Napa, Caro in Argentina, plus Cunard-label wines produced by Rothschild and available by the glass. Five different wine flights—three glasses each and perfect to accompany a number of the dishes—were available for $25-$45.

The Verandah was open nightly, and on sea days for lunch. Reservations were essential, but we found plenty of openings available on the first day of our cruise.

Queen Elizabeth’s pub doesn’t quite feature the creaky, lived-in ambience of our favorite watering holes in England (that’s an American’s opinion), but it kept the British cruisers happy. International sporting events were played on the telly, while karaoke, a pianist for sing-along sessions, trivia contests, and board games were also available.

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A short list of food items were available for lunch, with no surcharge added, such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash and cottage pie. While the food was nothing special, and we didn’t much care for the presentation of plastic packets of ketchup and malt vinegar on the side, it was sufficient for a change of pace.

In addition to the ship’s standard cocktail list, several draft ales were available, including Boddingtons, Guinness, Old Speckled Hen, Stella Artois and Becks; there was also Aspall cider on tap.

The Golden Lion was open from 10 a.m. till late in the evening.

There were two room service menus available. The first, for breakfast, was on a door hanger to be placed outside the night before; delivery times were in 15-minute blocks between 7 and 10 a.m. Selection included hot and cold cereals, toast, pastries and muffins served with various preserves, yogurt (plain or fruit), fresh fruit plates and a selection of juices. Hot options included eggs (scrambled, sunny side up, over easy) accompanied by bacon, sausage, baked beans, hash browns or grilled tomato. Coffee, tea, milk and hot chocolate were offered.

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Our breakfast one morning was ordered for 8 to 8:15 a.m.; the knock came at 7:54, and food arrived on a large tray with plastic lids on each plate. There was ketchup for hash browns, and a slice of lemon (perhaps for the fruit plate?). Toast was wrapped in a linen napkin. Salt and pepper was in paper packets along with plastic packets of ketchup, mustard and mayo (we found this tacky—glass jars or ramekins would have been more appropriate). Linen napkins wrapped silverware.

Breakfast was pretty much as expected. Eggs over easy and sunny side up arrived as ordered. We also ordered toast, a single small slice came—we'd have liked more, if it weren't barely lukewarm. The fruit plate was a bit flavorless, and comparable to what was on the buffet. Juices were fine, the coffee was watery.

A second menu was available 24 hours. This included salad, cold and hot sandwiches, fajitas, a Mediterranean quesadilla, penne Bolognese, grilled sirloin steak, and various burgers, including turkey. Dessert options included warm apple pie with custard sauce, vanilla cheesecake with cherries, a frozen chocolate bombe and crème caramel. There was no surcharge for late-night orders.

When we called for lunch, we were on hold for 1 minute before placing our order; no estimated delivery time was provided, but the food arrived 27 minutes later. We asked for the Caprese salad, nicely presented with a mound of arugula and dressed with basil infused olive oil; the menu called it balsamic dressing, but we couldn’t taste much vinegar. The mozzarella was good—not the rubbery American kind—but the tomatoes were bland. A toasted York ham and English cheddar panini sounded better than it tasted; the sandwich was warm, but the fries cool; a limp spinach salad sat alongside. Chicken Thai curry (also available with shrimp) was great—a mound of jasmine rice surrounded with a flavorful green curry; the dish packed lots of heat (more than some might like) but hit the spot for us. For dessert we had the chocolate fudge cake and it was about as expected, satisfying if unexceptional.

In addition to the soft drinks and water in our minibar, the in-room beverage menu had a good selection of 1.5-ounce “nip” bottles, starting at $5.95 up to 7.95, with 1-liter bottles available for $55 to $75, accompanied by six sodas of our choice. The short list of beers included Budweiser, Corona, Heineken, Guinness Draught and Spitfire Real Ale ($5.50-$5.95) but only two wineries were represented on the room service list: Cunard Private Label, and Wente Vineyards—other labels were available on request. Champagnes and sparkling wines included prosecco from Valdobbiadenne ($7.25 for 150ml and $35 for a full bottle), Delamotte brut NV ($12.75 and $59.50) and Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and rosé ($17.50-$19 and $82-$95).

As with the ship’s bars, a 15 percent service charge was added to drinks ordered through in-room dining. In addition to the soft drinks and water in our minibar, the in-room beverage menu had a good selection of hard liquors. The 1.5-ounce “nip” bottles started at $5.95 for Myer’s rum, Canadian Club or Teachers whiskey, and G&J Greenall gin; 1-liter bottles of these were priced $55 (bottle orders were accompanied by six sodas of our choice). Other liquors included Johnnie Walker Black Label, Glenkinchie (12-year) Scotch whiskey, Courvoisier VS cognac and Grey Goose vodka, at prices ranging up to $7.95 for a nip bottle and $75 for a 1-liter bottle.

The short list of beers included Budweiser, Corona, Heineken, Guinness Draught and Spitfire Real Ale for $5.50-$5.95. Only two wineries were represented on the room service list: Cunard Private Label and Wente Vineyards—$5.95 for 150ml, $9.95 for 250ml and $29.75 for a full bottle—but other labels were said to be available on request. Champagnes and sparkling wines included prosecco from Valdobbiadenne ($7.25 for 150ml and $35 for a full bottle), Delamotte brut NV ($12.75 and $59.50) and Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and rosé ($17.50-$19 and $82-$95).

As with the ship’s bars, a 15 percent service charge was added to drinks ordered through in-room dining.

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Named for the RMS Carinthia, a beloved Cunard liner launched in 1925, this was the ship’s tea and coffee emporium, a classy space with overstuffed couches, potted orchids and art deco embellishments. In this age of java joints on every street corner we were a little surprised that Café Carinthia didn’t open until 7 a.m., when we found it struggling to wipe the sleep from its eyes (on many cruise ships the coffee venue is open 24 hours).

A light menu was available through the day. In the mornings, this included some of the ship’s pastries, while from 12 noon till 2:30 p.m. there was a quiche Lorraine tartlet with mesclun salad, shrimp salad served on rye with roasted peppers and olives, smoked salmon in a lemon pepper bap, etc. At teatime (3 to 5 p.m.), a strawberry tartlet, black and white profiteroles, and Alsacian apple tart were offered. There was no additional charge for these items.

The tea selection was from Jacksons of Piccadilly, tea emporium started in 1815 and now focused on Fairtrade registered growers around the world. Eleven options were availed, including Ceylon Earl Grey, Kenyan, Assam, Chinese white tea silver tips, and Sencha green tea, available infused with, mint, lemon, lime or elderflower. Prices were $2.50-$2.75, served with proper china and a teapot, with a biscuit (no tea bags!).

The coffee selection included Americano, espresso, cappuccino, mocha, and latte (available with various syrups). Prices ranged $2.75-$4.25 for the regular size to $3.75-$5.25 for large. Iced iterations were available ($3-$4.50), along with hot chocolate, which could be spiked with Amaretto, Frangelico, Bailey’s or Grand Marnier ($7.25).

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This was our go-to spot for pre-prandial imbibing. The Commodore Club sprawled across the bow of the ship at Deck 11, creating an observation lounge that was ideal for watching the world go by, or the sun settling in for the night. It also had the most extensive cocktail list on board.

However, at most hours Commodore Club suffered from very slow service. Over the course of multiple visits we found the venue either understaffed or the staff present to be poorly utilized staff. On one visit we waited more than 15 minutes for the cocktail waitress to get to our table—does Cunard realize they’re leaving money on table with all the drink orders not taken? Fortunately, when they eventually arrive, the drinks are very good.

Hot canapés were served at cocktail hour. There wasn’t a lot of heart to them, but the odd good nibble was proffered.

The Admiral’s Lounge is a small area off to the starboard side of Commodore Club. While typically seating only 10, it was used primarily for lectures and private cocktail parties (and as overflow one evening when all the tables were taken at Commodore Club). In the hallways outside the lounge were handsome models of the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.

Immediately next to the Admiral’s Lounge is Churchill’s Cigar Lounge, a small room dedicated to cigar and pipe smokers, with black and white photos of Sir Winston Churchill disembarking the Queen Mary in 1943. The humidor offered a selection of cigars including Hoyo de Monterrey, Montecristo (and Montecristo 1 and 2), Ednundo and Petit Ednundo, Davidoff Soecial T and Short Perfecto, and the Cuban Hopmann Coronas Major. There was a small selection of port, as well.

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Set on Deck 10, this was effectively the ship’s disco. On some evenings there was recorded ballroom music for dancing early, then the DJ would emerge at 9:30 p.m. or after to shake our grove things, usually with a different theme nightly (50s and 60s Night, 80s Night, etc.). On our voyage we didn’t see many guests using the disco most nights.

Named after the QE2’s original Yacht Club, note the silver Asprey’s yacht from the QE2 as well.

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This splendid, two-story ballroom served a number of purposes during our cruise. Chief among them was dancing, of course—nightly and with a live orchestra. Other entertainments were scheduled here, along with afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea was served here from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., daily except embarkation day. The sandwiches were unexceptional, but the scones, warm from the oven and topped with strawberry jam and clotted cream, were terrific. The event was very popular—rather than wait in line we found it best to arrive towards the end of the hour as tables started to open up. (Afternoon tea was also offered at the Lido Restaurant, though we much preferred the ambience at the Queens Room.)

Nightly music offerings included Big Band Concerts, with a smooth, polished 13-piece band, along with Ballroom and Latin dancing. There was dozens of couples on board with all the right moves, including a few that were knocks-outs. Tip: If you’re not fleet on your feet (as we aren’t) don’t miss the ballroom dance lessons offered early in the cruise itinerary. Wish we’d attended.

On Formal Nights a themed ball was scheduled for the Queens Room, and themed attire was encouraged (though not required). The first of these was the Cunard Ball, with black and white dress; the second was the London Ball, when appropriately decorated hats (with feathers for ladies) were suggested. Other themed nights on Queen Elizabeth included the Buccaneer Ball, the Elizabethan Ball, the Venetian Masked Ball, and the Starlight Ball.

On one sea day, a classical piano concert was held here—Rachmaninoff, Chopin and the like were featured.

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Styled after London’s Kew Gardens, this Deck 9 lounge had a conservatory-style glass half-domed roof, making it an appealing hangout when the weather was chilly. It was a good place to stock up on drinks when the nearby Pavilion Bar was not staffed. A pianist played here after 9 p.m. each evening.

The ship’s standard bar menu was available at the Garden Lounge, as well as a selection of fresh squeezed juices and smoothies. Fresh juices and presses included orange, grapefruit, apple, pineapple, celery and carrot ($4.25 each) with non-alcoholic cocktails also offered, such as watermelon and ginger cooler, and the apple and mint Collins ($4.75), also available with mineral boosters like gingko biloba. We ordered a smoothie one morning ($5.50) and were disappointed to see that the principal ingredient was ice, something we don’t bother with at home; among the flavors were mixed fruit, Berry Bliss, Tropical Paradise, Pineapple Blast and Pommeberry.

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This swell-looking bar served as the ship’s Champagne bar, with various Veueve Clicquot on offer, by the glass $17.50 for yellow label, $19 for rosé), by the half-bottle ($46), or full bottle ($82, or $96 for 2004 Reserve). It’s one of the areas of Queen Elizabeth we wished we had utilized more during our journey.

The ship’s resident pianist and (separately) harpist played recitals here at various occasions during our cruise.

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Guests staying in Princess Grill or Queens Grill suites had exclusive access to this area of Queen Elizabeth, located at midship on Deck 11. It included a cushy private lounge, a private dining room for Princess Grill guests as well as separate room for Queens Grill guests (with additional menu items available), and a private sun terrace on Deck 12, the highest public area of the ship.

As we were housed in a more humble cabin, maybe next time we’ll upgrade and gain entry.

{{photo_gallery "Venue 12 Overview Photos", "Venue 12 Food Photos", "Venue 12 Drinks Photos", "Venue 12 Other Activities Photos"}} Although a number of the recreational pursuits were light, there was a great selection of activities. The entertainers aboard were excellent, and the main theatre was a classy venue for shows.

Managed by Steiner Leisure, the major player in cruise ship spas, the Royal Spa was properly elegant and subdued and featured a full-service salon. The ship’s gym was accessed through the spa, as was the Royal Bath House, a surcharge facility within the spa.

Massages ranged from a back, neck and shoulder ($69 for 25 minutes, $109 for 50 minutes) to Swedish massage ($119 for 50 minutes) to sports or bamboo massage ($129 for 50 minutes, $179 for 75 minutes); the Royal Spa massage for two was $259 for 50 minutes, $355 for 75 minutes. Several Ayurvedic treatments were available, including Shirodhara ($99 for 25 minutes), Shirobhyanga massage ($130 for 50 minutes) or Chakra Rasul ($175 for 50 minutes). Fifty-minute facials included Elemis Skin Specific, Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing, Oxydermal, and Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift ($109 to $145). Men’s facials, barbering and grooming were available, along with hair, nail and waxing services for women. A 12.5 percent gratuity was added to the price of all treatments.

The Royal Bath House was an extra-charge facility located within the spa, which could be accessed by the day or with a pass for the full voyage. The bathhouse included a thermal suite with heated ceramic loungers, sauna and steam grottos, a relaxation area, and an indoor hydrotherapy pool.

The gym was stocked with the latest equipment, with treadmills, bikes, bench presses, cross-trainers by TechnoGym, along with rowing machines, weights, and more. In the aerobics room there were stretching and legs, bums and tums sessions at no charge, and available for $12 were Fab Abs and Pilates classes (there were also bikes for spinning, but no sessions scheduled on our cruise).

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The Pavilion Pool was protected from the wind but still fairly open for sunning. There were two small Jacuzzi tubs and a pair of shower stalls for rinsing off, and in addition to sun loungers, sheltered outdoor furniture was available. A second pool area, the Lido Pool, was a popular spot for eating, sunning and swimming. There were two Jacuzzi tubs, a couple shower stalls and a good quantity of loungers. The pool depth was 4-feet, 9-inches at one end, 6-feet, 8-inches at the other.

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Deck 11 forward served as the Games Deck, and we found a nifty collection of outdoor activities with an English bent. There was Short Mat Bowling (like lawn bowling), Croquet and Paddle Tennis. There were instructions for each, and tournaments were announced in the Daily Programme.

There was also an informal and inviting Card Room. Beginning and intermediate Bridge lessons were offered on the first full day of the cruise, and unhosted Social Bridge sessions were scheduled on remaining days. There were also several Scrabble box sets available for play (along with an Oxford English dictionary).

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The Promenade Deck was the one deck that circuited the entire ship. Jogging and power walks were permitted only from 8 a.m, to 8 p.m. (three laps equaled 0.9 mile). There were a deck chairs lining the corridor at midship. Deck 10 was the uppermost deck straddling the ship’s mid-section. There were plentiful loungers, four shuffleboard courts, and the Ping Pong tables were much in use. There was also a netted area for golf practice.

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Queen Elizabeth’s handsome theatre was modeled after the Gaiety Theatre on Isle of Man, a classic opera house still in operation. With seating for 800-plus, sightlines were excellent owing to the Royal Court’s steep rake and minimum of obstructions (we loved the box seats flanking the main seating area); portable headsets were provided for hearing-impaired guests.

The theatre was used for several different types of performances, best of which was La Danza, a dance review that showcased various styles from around the world. It wasn’t the type of show we’d normally jump for but we were impressed. The 55-minute performance utilized both backing tracks and a live band—there were great costumes and fine choreography to showcase the energetic 12-member team of hoofers. Also worth seeing was Vanity Fair, an English-style review, with songs from Mad Dogs and Englishman and Crazy for You. Again, the costumes were snazzy, though no real sets were involved (for this or any of the shows we saw). Other live shows included a comedian, a pickpocket act, and a classical vocalist.

In the Queens Room nightly music offerings included Big Band Concerts, with a smooth, polished 13-piece band, along with Ballroom and Latin dancing. There were dozens of couples on board with all the right moves, including a few that were knocks-outs. Tip: If you’re not fleet on your feet (as we aren’t) don’t miss the ballroom dance lessons offered early in the cruise itinerary. Wish we’d attended.

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Compared to the big-name brands catering to the U.S. market, Queen Elizabeth had a smallish casino, with 54 slot machines. But this appeared to be sufficient on our cruise—we never observed the facility heavily used. Table games included Blackjack, Face Up Blackjack, Roulette, Three Card Poker, Caribbean Poker and Three Stud Poker.

The casino was the only place on the ship where cash was accepted, and U.S. dollars only. There was a full bar here, serving the ship’s standard cocktail menu.

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The Royal Arcade was a gallery of interconnected stores on Deck 3 offering good shopping opportunities—in fact, we found a somewhat broader selection of merchandize than is availed on most mainstream cruise lines. Products from Chopard, Fabergé, Anya Hindmarch, Zandra Rhodes, Emporio Armani, Molton Brown and Gina Bacconi were among the more unique finds showcased at the Royal Arcade, in addition to the usual suspects for watches, jewelry, clothing and duty-free cigarettes and alcohol. Merchandize was priced in U.S. dollars throughout.

Near the shopping arcade, but easy to overlook was the Emporium, a cubbyhole boutique with a few specialty items. This included Cunard-brand chocolates and Queen Elizabeth-logo products, Fortnum and Mason teas, as well as sundries such as deodorant, toothpaste, insect repellant, shaving products, sun block and over-the-counter remedies.

A gallery of photos taken by the ship’s photographers was available for purchase at the Images Photo Gallery. Individual prints were $24.95 each. Photos could be ordered as prints or on CDs—a package of 10 was $149.95, 15 was $199.95 or an unlimited number was $299.95. Ship photographers were not overly aggressive, which was refreshing. A video of the voyage was also available for purchase at the end of the trip. We reviewed one but we were pretty unimpressed with the quality—it made our overall journey look like a bore.

Managed by Clarendon Fine Art, we found a lot of nice artwork hanging in this gallery, with a good deal more subtlety and nuance than is common in the art showcased on mass-market ships. Though most of it was not pieces that we’d jump to buy, we enjoyed perusing the canvases. Another thing we liked: There were no hard-sell art auctions on our voyage.

While most cruise ships have just a small collection of paperbacks for sale, Queen Elizabeth’s had a genuine Book Shop with a selection of several hundred titles for purchase. This included fiction and nonfiction (mostly paperbacks), a few travel guides, a particularly good selection of children’s books, plus lots of books about the ship and the Cunard Line. Also offered were diaries, pens and notecards.

Just outside the Book Shop, don’t miss the display cases with royal memorabilia—Christmas cards from Charles and Diana, photos and newspaper clips about Queen Elizabeth and Cunard Line through the years.

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The ship's excellent Library is among the finest at sea, with more than 6000 books covering a range of stories, styles and subjects, including a large collection of travel guides for the areas Queen Elizabeth commonly sails. The latter were not available for check-out (they could be read in the comfy chairs here), but other titles could be borrowed. There was also a small collection of jigsaw puzzles, plus Chess, Checkers and Yahtzee sets.

The intimate yet stunning Grand Lobby atrium occupied three levels starting from Deck 1, accented by a striking wood mural of the Queen Elizabeth as a backdrop to the curved staircase. At the lowest level was the Purser’s Office, the Shore Excursion desk and the future cruise sales desk. Wrapping around the upper decks of the lobby were The Verandah restaurant, Café Corinthia and the Midships Bar. A couple events took place here during the cruise, such as a pastry demo one day, but otherwise this beautiful space was under-utilized.

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Play Zone was designed for kids aged up to 6 years old, supervised by British registered nursery nurses and youth coordinators. There were Play Station 3 games, arts and crafts stations, toys, games and a private outdoor play area. Next door, the Zone was for older children and teens.

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Queen Elizabeth’s Internet Centre was located on Deck 1 and offered 21 Mac computers for checking email. While the equipment was good, we found access to be very clunky, with service not available for multi-hour periods. We didn’t find the attendant particularly knowledgeable about the service or the problems we had connecting; the venue was staffed two hours in the morning and 2½ hours in the afternoon on sea days, and 2 hours in the evening on port days.

The pay-as-you-go rate for internet use (using the ship’s computer or our won laptop) was .75 cents per minute. Packages brought prices down: 120 minutes was a more-reasonable $47.95 (.40 cents per minute), for instance. Printing was charged at .50 cents per page.

Next door, Connexions 1 was a learning facility with 19 Mac computers used for hands-on classes. Among the free options were 30-minute classes on iPads, iPods and iPhones and Tablets. “Next Step” worshops were $30 and included 60-minute sessions on Apple’s iPhoto (managing and editing images, creating books, calendars and slideshows), Adobe Photoshop Elements (basic repairs, effects, using layers), Apple’s iMovie. There was an advanced seminar called Using your iPad Efficiently, priced $10. All but one of the classes was offered only once, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule at the start of your cruise.

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More than perhaps any other cruise line we’ve traveled with, Cunard believes in a dress code, and Queen Elizabeth is a dressy ship. While it’s not necessary to invest in a wardrobe overhaul to embark, many passengers use a Cunard cruise as an opportunity to show off their fanciest finery. The rules sound imposing, but after a day or two we felt very much at home.

During the day, casual dress was encouraged, but bathrobes and bathing suits were “not suitable” for indoor public areas. After 6 p.m., evening attire fell into one of three categories, carefully detailed in ship literature before and during the voyage. On our seven-night cruise, two nights were designated as Elegant Casual: Jacket, no tie required for gentlemen; dress, skirt or trousers for ladies; no shorts or jeans. Two nights were Semi-Formal: Jacket and tie for gentlemen; cocktail dress or trouser suit for ladies. On the three Formal nights, black tie or formal dark suit was required for gentlemen, evening dress or other formal attire for ladies (gentlemen’s formal wear was available for hire or purchase onboard the ship). Note that the dress code for the Lido Restaurant at dinner was Elegant Casual nightly, for those who didn’t care to put on the dog on Semi-Formal or Formal nights.

Additionally, on each Formal Night a themed ball was scheduled, and themed attire was encouraged (though not required). The first of these was the Cunard Ball, with black and white dress and featuring the “Officer’s Gavotte” dance in the ballroom; the second was the London Ball, when appropriately decorated hats (with feathers for ladies) were suggested. Other themed nights on Queen Elizabeth included the Buccaneer Ball, the Elizabethan Ball, the Venetian Masked Ball, and the Starlight Ball. These sounded intimidating before we boarded, but the festivities were easy to enjoy from the sidelines (only a small percentage of the attendees wore themed attire).

On most other cruise lines dress codes aren’t strictly enforced—not so on Queen Elizabeth. One gloriously sunny afternoon we were milling about the Lido Restaurant as it was opening for the evening; a few minutes after 6:00, managers gently reminded three separate men that shorts were not permitted after 6 p.m. Our advice: Don’t get stressed out with the dress code, but pack accordingly and then focus on enjoying the overall experience.

Editor’s Note : In March 2013, after our voyage, Cunard announced that it was loosening its dress code for its cruises going forward. Formal evenings remain, requiring “dinner jacket, tuxedo or dark suit with tie for gentlemen; evening or cocktail dress for ladies.” Other nights are now designated as Informal—"jacket required, tie optional for gentlemen; cocktail dress, stylish separates or equivalent for ladies."

Complimentary washers and dryers were available on all of the decks with cabins, except Deck 1. Each had an ironing board and iron, and laundry detergent packets were provided. The machines got a real workout during our cruise, and in the laundry room on our deck two of the three dryers and one of the three washers were out of order. Full laundry and dry cleaning services were also available.

We felt safe and secure aboard the Queen Elizabeth, and sanitation practices seemed well in order. The Muster Drill was conducted in an orderly, efficient manner. We were required to bring life vests from our cabin, for instructions in wearing them. Our room keys were not scanned, and names were not taken during a roll call.

The Medical Centre was located on Deck A (forward) and a doctor was available for routine, non-emergency consultations. Hours were generally 8 to 10 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. daily. Seasickness tablets were available at the Purser’s Desk.

Smoking was not allowed in any public areas except for the Churchill’s Cigar Lounge (located next door to the Commodore Club) and in designated areas of the open decks. Smoking was not permitted in the casino. Smoking was allowed on cabin balconies.

A hotel and dining service charge is added to the checkout bill for all guests, divided between waitstaff, cabin stewards, buffet stewards and others. The amount is $11 per day, per guest (including children); for those staying in Grill accommodations the service charge is $13 per day, per guest. Additionally, a 15-percent gratuity is automatically added to every drink order, including minibar purchases.

The ship’s alcohol policies are somewhat vague, and leeway seems to be granted to individual embarkation ports. Cunard states: “There is no restriction to the amount of that can be carried onboard.” But the line also warns that Cunard “reserves the right to remove alcohol at the gangway should the need arise. It is not our intention to invoke this policy as a matter of course and we will only implement on occasions where we consider it likely that the health, comfort, safety and enjoyment of guests may otherwise be compromised. Should you wish to take wine or champagne onboard to celebrate an event, the number of bottles you take on will be at the port authorities discretion.” For wine consumed in restaurants the corkage fee was $20.

We did not find Cunard’s frequent sailor program, Cunard World Club, to be exactly flush with benefits. Cruisers are automatically enrolled after their first voyage. At the entry level, the Silver tier, starting with their second cruise members receive up to 5 percent off early bookings on select voyages and other perks. After a second cruise (or 20 nights), members attain Gold status, availing two hours of complimentary internet access, a cocktail party, and “preferred” reservations in the specialty restaurants.

After 7 cruises (or 70 nights) members are elevated to Platinum status, which adds an additional two hours of complimentary internet, a 20 percent discount on laundry and dry cleaning, and a complimentary wine tasting and Senior Officers’ Party. With 15 voyages (or 150 nights) comes Diamond status, with further benefits.

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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What It Was Like to Cross the Atlantic on the Queen Elizabeth 2

By Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

In the last decade, cruising has grown immensely , with hundreds of ships regularly ferrying passengers to nearly every corner of the globe: from Miami to the Caribbean, around the Cape Peninsula, through the Panama Canal, up and down the Mediterranean Sea. There’s a route, and a cruise line , for every type of traveler. But for many seasoned cruisers, one ship, and one iconic route, will always stand out as the crown jewel: Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2 , more affectionately known as the QE2 .

In operation from 1969 to 2008, the QE2 brought the rich and famous— Neil Diamond, Nelson Mandela, Elton John, Elizabeth Taylor, and several members of the Royal Family among them—from New York to Southampton, England, and vice versa. The ocean liner was a luxurious—and for some, less nerve-wracking—way to cross the Atlantic, and, at one time, was the only way to do so by sea.

When she was finally taken out of service, and eventually brought to Dubai to be turned into a floating hotel , crew and former passengers alike were “distraught.” We spoke to some of those former crew members and guests to find out what it was like to be on board, and what exactly made the ocean liner so alluring.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Sleek, streamlined, and elegant

The QE2 ’s design stands in stark contrast to the ships most travelers see today. “There are no ships like it today, quite frankly,” says Andy Dinsdale, a former cruise director on the QE2 . “She was the fastest ship of her type in the world at that time. You look at the ships nowadays, they're all sky rises on ship bases. The QE2 was sleek, she was slim. She was made to cut through the ocean waves and she did it beautifully—fast and elegantly.”

Tim Davey, who worked as a crew purser and hotel officer onboard the QE2 in the early 90s, echoes the importance of the ship's design. “This thing had some really sexy shapes about it, you know? It was well maintained, always immaculate. And it was the pride and joy of Cunard every time it came into port. You knew you were on something special, whether you were a passenger, or a crew member.”

When she first came into service, the QE2 had a slick modern '70s “space-age-y” design, Dinsdale says. Public spaces were decorated with plastic laminates, modular furniture, and abstract art. Over the years, refurbishments led to a slightly more grandiose aesthetic, but many original structural elements remained.

Christian Reay , who sailed as a passenger in early 2007 and has since been on 17 cruises, said in an email that he remembers the ship’s “sleek, yacht-like” design, the “intricate ceilings and space-age pillars” of The Queen’s Room, where afternoon tea was served, as well as “her funnel in the traditional Cunard red and black livery, and the beautifully tiered aft decks and superstructure.” 

“I still remember being in the taxi, approaching the Queen Elizabeth II Terminal at Southampton docks, and seeing QE2 for the first time, and being completely in awe,” Reay said.

The interior of the Queen's Room, where afternoon tea was served and cocktail parties were hosted, 1969

A dining experience ‘second-to-none’

Guests on the QE2 dined according to the tier of room they paid for. Still, though, the food in any dining room was considered five-star. “From top to bottom—even if you're in the Columbia Dining Room, which was for those in the lower cabins, the food and the experience were still magic,” Davey says.

Drinks were a given, too. “The cocktail waiters were just magnificent. I've never seen mixologists like that before,” Dinsdale says.

Former guests concur. “No midnight buffet has ever been the same since,” Benedict Montgomery , who sailed with his family around the Norwegian Fjords aboard the QE2 in 2006, said in an email. “From elaborate ice sculptures to fresh oysters and lobster to whatever your heart desired, there was so much choice.”

British traditions were a highlight, too. “Afternoon Tea took place each day, promptly at 3 p.m., and it was an event not to be missed,” Reay says. “Immaculate white gloved waiter service, and a vast selection of finger sandwiches, cakes, French fancies, and scones with jam and clotted cream.” Altogether, “The dining experience was second to none,” he says.

Passengers in a VIP lounge during the QE2's first year of service, 1969

An elaborate event

Entertainment abounded on the QE2 , especially for Atlantic crossings. Guests could enjoy a drink at the piano bar, listen to classical music or jazz orchestras, practice ballroom dancing, or attend lectures given by filmmakers, former Concorde pilots , and more. “When you're doing a five day transatlantic, you want to know that you're going to have the opportunity to meet a famous author and do some education across the pond as well,” Davey says.

Caitlin Morton

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Jessica Puckett

Occasionally, a themed cruise would be on offer, sailing with soap opera stars, former Olympians, or comedians. Beyond the notable names, guests mingled with one another—“The QE2 had this way of attracting people from all around the world who would come to sail on here, so there were always interesting people around,” Davey says. And guests dressed for the occasion, wearing suits and gowns to dinners. “You were really going on the QE2 to be part of an elaborate event, and it made it special.”

Luxury from start to finish

Also unique to the QE2 ? Its partnerships with other luxury modes of travel at the time. Packages were available to allow guests to travel on the Orient-Express train to Southampton, sail over to America, stay a night or two at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, then fly a chartered Concorde plane back to London. “That means of traveling the world—you’re going in the lap of luxury on all three” modes of transport, Dinsdale says.

Janice Jeffery, who took the Concorde to Singapore on her 21st birthday while working for Cunard, and arranged these packages for guests, says the experiences helped to put the cruise line back on the map.

“Now I meet people, and they always say, ‘my big regret was I never did Concorde and I never did QE2 ’ because they were iconic," she says. "I don't think we'll see anything like that again. There are too many ships and too many planes.”

Sailing out of New York, 2008 

A warm welcome

In the QE2 ’s heyday, world cruises were still somewhat of a novelty—so much so that locals would crowd into ports to see the ocean liner coming in. Jeffery and Davey recall hundreds of small sailing boats and motor vessels that would sail in with them in ports like Rio de Janeiro and Sydney , and the excited crowds that would greet them, lining the decks as they sailed into places like South Africa ’s Port Elizabeth.

Davey remembers sailing into New Zealand , “and just the flotilla of boats that would come and greet you and sail into the harbor with you was amazing.” Stateside, locals would stand on their balconies around Fort Lauderdale ’s port with air horns and flashlights. ”The captain would sound the QE2 horn three times, and then they would all answer with their horns. And it became a ritual sailing out of Fort Lauderdale,” he says.

The end of an era

The nostalgia for the QE2 is evident, carved out of her long history, penchant for carrying notable guests, and white glove service. "It reminded people of a bygone era which sadly none of us will ever experience again,” Montgomery, who has since sailed on 13 more cruises, says of the fanfare over the liner. “She evoked a lot of real love in passengers and crew,” says Jeffery.

With 1,800 passengers and 1,200 crew, there was much more attention paid to each guest, too. “It didn't matter what level of cabin you were in, you were treated like royalty,” Davey says. Montgomery, who sailed at age 11, recalls the wait staff “always went out of their way to ensure a fussy child, like I was, enjoyed the experience.”

That level of service is at the core of the QE2 ’s legacy. “Why do [travelers] go to The Savoy in London? Why do they go to The Ritz ? They want to have that feeling of being looked after in a way that the Romantic era of the Victorians were,” Dinsdale says.

While cruisers can no longer experience a transatlantic crossing or world cruise on the famed liner, they can still spend a night on board , docked in Dubai's Port Rashid; former crew say she’s been well looked after, too. Says Davey: “If you have that hankering to go and see the traditional old lady, you still can, and that's a great way for it to end up.”

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Cunard Queen Elizabeth Deck Plans & Reviews

Cunard Queen Elizabeth

Activities & entertainment

• Aerobic Area
• Afternoon Tea
• Art Classes *
• Ballroom Dance Classes
• Bridge Classes
• Card Room *
• Champagne Afternoon Tea *
• Darts Competitions
• Deck Quoits
• Fencing Classes
• Fitness Classes *
• Gala Evening Balls
• Golf Competitions
• Hair Salon *
• Hot Tubs (4)
• Hydropool *
• iPad and Computer Workshops *
• Needlework & Knitting Corners
• Onboard Movies
• Royal Court Theatre (Middle)
• Royal Spa & Fitness Centre *
• Royal Spa Treatment Rooms *
• Scavenger Hunts
• Shuffleboard Competitions
• Solo Travelers Get Togethers
• Thalassotherapy Pool *
• Thermal Suites *
• Wellbeing Seminars
• Children's Outdoor Area
• Teens' Outdoor Area
• The Play Zone
• Nightly Live Music
• Onboard Lectures
• Passenger Talent Shows
• Queens Room
• Royal Court Theatre
• Bar - Pool Bar *
• Admiral's Lounge *
• Garden Lounge *
• Midships Bar - Atrium Bar *
• Lido Restaurant - Casual
• Churchill's Cigar Lounge - Cigar Bar
• Café Carinthia - Coffee and Wine *
• Golden Lion - English Pub *
• Lido Grill - Fast Food
• The Verandah Restaurant - French *
• Britannia Club - International
• Britannia Restaurant - International
• Commodore Club - Martini Bar *
• Lido Bar - Pool Bar *
• Grills Lounge - Suite Guests
• Grills Terrace - Suite Guests
• Princess Grill - Suite Guests
• Queens Grill - Suite Guests

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Queen Elizabeth

Cruise line Cunard

• Sydney (NSW Australia)
• Miami (Florida)
• Seattle (Washington)
• Vancouver (BC Canada)
• Yokohama (Tokyo, Japan Kanagawa)

Queen Elizabeth current position

Queen Elizabeth current location is at East Asia (coordinates 33.57021 N / 136.86194 E) cruising at speed of 18.7 kn (35 km/h | 22 mph) en route to TOKYO. The AIS position was reported 9 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth current cruise is 9 days, round-trip Japan Circumnavigation . Prices start from USD 1099 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 26 Apr, 2024 and ends on 05 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Queen Elizabeth

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Queen Elizabeth Itineraries

Queen elizabeth review, review of queen elizabeth.

The 2010-built MS Queen Elizabeth cruise ship is same-designed as MS Queen Victoria (2007) and has as fleetmates the Cunard liners RMS Queen Mary 2 (2004) and the fleet's newest boat (2024-built) Queen Anne .

The vessel (IMO number 9477438) is currently Bermuda- flagged (MMSI 310625000) and registered in Hamilton . The flag state/registry was changed from Southampton (UK) to Bermuda in order to be able to host onboard weddings.

On the 10th of October 2007, Cunard announced the ship's name. Cunard's last traditional-design Atlantic Ocean liner RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 (1969-built, IMO 6725418) retired in 2008 (on Nov 27th).

The cruise ship was named after and christened by HM Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022). The namesake is the Royal Navy battleship HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier (2014-built).

History - construction and ownership

Cunard Line is a British-American cruise brand, operated by Carnival UK and owned by Carnival Corporation (shipowner). Cunard is headquartered in Southampton (England UK) and is among the world's oldest passenger shipping companies . In 2015, Cunard Line celebrated its 175th anniversary.

The 2300-passenger liner Queen Elizabeth is a luxurious ocean liner. QE appeared in October 2010 when she was named in a grandiose ceremony by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Reminding the rich inheritance of the first Cunarder to bear the name, her stylishness both echoes that legendary age and improves her luxury modern charm. QE- the running mate to Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria has a modified design and is slightly larger than Queen Victoria, having more vertical stern.

With her black hull, white structure and red funnel signals, externally Cunard Queen Elizabeth has the charm of the company's British heritage, following Cunard's tradition. Modern luxury and the best of Cunard's values are what guests can expect onboard.

The ship is identical in design to MS Queen Victoria, although the max passenger capacity is slightly higher because of the steeper stern. This difference is the reason why the largest suites (at the stern) have smaller balconies. The games deck is covered by a roof at the end of deck 11, which is not similar to the sports deck on Queen Victoria with her not continuous canvas covering. RMS Queen Elizabeth's original whistle was used to make a copy of it for the new ship.

Unlike previous Cunard ships, this is not a true liner, as it doesn't have a heavy plating (throughout the hull). The bow is constructed with heavier plating in order to cope with Transatlantic crossings. Also, the ship has a high freeboard.

The ship's decor is different from Queen Victoria's, although with identical interior arrangements. As a tribute to the previous Elizabeths (the original one and the QE2), this cruiser evokes the 1930s, when Cunard's first QE was launched. A feature on Queen Mary 2 (not available on Queen Victoria) is the Britannia Club section of the restaurant, featured on Queen Elizabeth. This way passengers in Britannia staterooms are allowed to use single-seating dining arrangements, not having to upgrade to the more expensive Grill cabin grades.

Decks and Cabins

Cunard Queen Elizabeth staterooms (1043 total) include 127 Suites, 611 Balcony, 146 Oceanview and 162 Inside cabins, in all 9 types and 34 categories. The ship has 20 wheelchair-accessible and 9 studios (single-occupancy cabins). The largest are the Grand Suites (1495 ft2 / 139 m2 plus 970 ft2 / 90 m2 terrace).

Cabin types include Queens Grill, Princess Grill, Britannia, Suites (Grand, Master, Penthouse, Queen, Princess), Standard Balcony staterooms, Outside and Interior (windowless). Most cabins (Britannia Balcony) are sized 190-420 ft2 / 18-39 m2, with cabin balconies sized 70 ft2 / 7 m2.

The boat has 12 decks (all passenger-accessible) of which 7 are with cabins. Of all staterooms, ~85% are outside, with 71% of them with step-out balconies.

The Princess and Queens Grill suites are situated around the ship, with excellent views, or in the midships, where balconies are deeper. Most of the top suites are on Deck 7, in addition to Queens Grill penthouses, two Master and two Grand Suites which include huge balconies, separate dining areas, and whirlpool baths. These are named after the knighted Cunard Commodores. The Master Suites have a bath with a sea view, and the top category- the Grand Suites offer outdoor dining and a wraparound balcony. Queens and Princess Grill offer personalized stationery and marble bathrooms. The intimate Grill restaurants offer exceptional menus (with sophisticated creams and browns that glitter crystal and gold) and exciting sea views- located on Deck 11. The doors open to the Courtyard, and steps will lead you to the upper Grills Terrace, providing more exclusivity than the lower one, available for all guests.

Theoretically, MS Queen Elizabeth is a classless ship, but passengers are actually separated (like on all Cunard liners) as their onboard dining locations are according to their cabin's category/cruise fares paid. Britannia Restaurant is for regular cabins, Princess Grill - for junior suites, and the Queen's Grill is for deluxe suites. All the other public rooms are free to be used by all passengers.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Four main dining rooms and the Verandah- an alternative restaurant, the Lido- a buffet and a changing specialty option, are Queen Elizabeth suggestions. The Britannia Restaurant is the main dining room on board the ship, where everyone dines except the Grills and Britannia Club cabins. You may choose between two seating- 6,00p.m. and 8,30p.m. Britannia is open for full served breakfast on sea days from 8,00a.m. to 9,30a.m., on port days from 7,30a.m. to 9,00a.m.; lunch is from 12,30p.m. to 2,00p.m., open seating at both. A wide choice is on the dinner menu- five appetizers, six entrees (two of which vegetarian choices), two salads, six desserts, including cheese.

A step up from Britannia is the Britannia Club, which is a separate room for inhabitants of top-grade Britannia cabins. The menu is as, in Britannia, the atmosphere- more exclusive, dinner is from 6,30p.m. to 9,00p.m., open seating, breakfast and lunch served also there. The two Grill restaurants are on Deck 10, accessible with special keycards, sharing the outdoor terrace with a splashing fountain, sheltered by high walls. The Princess Grill's menu is similar to Britannia, but with more items and a la carte menu. Queens Grill's menu is with bigger a la carte menu and you can have what you want.

The Verandah Restaurant on Deck 2 offers really outstanding food and is available to all passengers. It is open from 6,30p.m. to 9,00p.m., for lunch from 12,00p.m. to 1,30p.m. If you dine there you will enjoy a real luxury cruise. The Lido is a 24-hour casual dining venue on Deck 9. Breakfast is served from 4,00a.m. to 11,30a.m., and is followed by lunch until 3,00p.m., afternoon tea is at 6,00p.m., dinner- from 6,00p.m. to 11,00p.m., snacks available through the night. Other dining venues are Cafe Carinthia on Deck 3, which is open from 7,00a.m. and serves breakfast- pastries, lunch- quiches and salads, and afternoon tea. The Lido and the Queens Room offer afternoon tea and sandwiches, burgers, pasta and other, as well as the menu from dining rooms.

The Britannia Club, which is one of the four basic QE dining rooms, replaced the Chart Room bar which is available on Cunard's Queen Victoria, while the Todd English specialty restaurant, featured on both QM2 and QV, became The Verandah. This restaurant, managed by Cunard's executive chef, is remindful of the glory days of the first Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, on which The Verandah Grill was regarded as the finest restaurant at sea. The Midships Bar, which is another much-loved Cunard's feature, is back, as is the Yacht Club nightspot, which is a lounge fondly remembered by fans of QE2 for its late-night dancing. Despite that Cunard is American owned cruise company, there's no lack of British icons such as a Fortnum & Mason hamper ordering service, Harris Tweed for sale and a sunlit Garden Lounge that's spiritual by the glass houses of Kew Gardens.

When you book you may request a sitting. The Britannia restaurant has two for dinner - at 6 p.m. and at 8.30 p.m. Princess Grill and Queens Grill do not have sittings - when they are open, you can dine any time you choose. A note for confirmation sitting and table number will be left in your stateroom when you board. Lunch and breakfast do not require allocated tables or sittings.

During the day, passengers definitely tend towards country club casual dress code. At night, even when it isn't a formal-designated evening, people dress anyway. There are three dress codes in the main restaurants after 6 p.m. each evening - which one applies each night you will be told in pre-voyage documentation and daily program in your stateroom: Formal (men - dinner jacket with a black tie or dark business suit; women- evening dress); Semi-formal (men- jacket and a tie; women - cocktail dress/trouser suit); Elegant casual (men - a jacket, tie is optional; women - skirt, dress or trousers). Shorts and T-shirts or shorts are not permitted!

Follows the complete list of Queen Elizabeth restaurants and food bars.

• Verandah Restaurant (French specialty restaurant at a surcharge)
• Britannia Restaurant (1351-seat, 2-level Dining Room; serves open-seating Breakfast and Lunch. Dinners are waiter-served, with 2 assigned sittings at 6 or 8:30 p.m. Inside is the Britannia Club which is a private dining room for Britannia Club Balcony guests)
• Britannia Club Restaurant (single-seating, complimentary dining venue for AA-Balcony Room guests only)
• Lido Restaurant (450-seat buffet-style restaurant for Breakfast and Lunch; In two of its sections are offered itinerary-inspired dishes for dinner)
• Winter Garden Lounge (supper club/formal dining venue; features gourmet food and Afternoon Champagne Tea)
• Queens Grill Restaurant (142-seat, for Queens Grill Suite guests; with regular and an a-la-carte-priced menu)
• Princess Grill Restaurant (132-seat, Princess Grill Suite guests only; open-sitting, with the same menu as at the Queens Grill)
• The Courtyard Restaurant (40-seat; serves Grills staterooms guests only).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Queen Elizabeth cruise liner is quite similar in many aspects to her sibling, Queen Victoria, in most of the design, cabins and enrichment programs. The decor indefinably feels lighter; chic, geometric Art Deco-inspired interiors unlike to the heavier Victoriana. There is beautiful artwork, rich Italian marble, polished wood and soft light everywhere, diffused by glittering chandeliers. The rippling sounds of a harp, soft piano or gentle jazz trio throughout the public places emphasize the whole feeling of old-fashioned glamour. There isn't neon or glitz on this vessel, and there are some gimmicks. Instead of capturing the public's imagination with water slides and high-tech discos, Cunard cruise company cashes in on its awesome inheritance, a sense of cause and old-fashioned pursuits like ballroom dancing, lawn bowls or afternoon tea in the Garden Lounge.

Live music is played all over the ship. If you enjoy evening drinks in Midships bar or Cafe Carinthia, listen to the pianist and the harpist in the Grand Lobby. The Golden Lion pub presents a singing pianist, quizzes, karaoke. Every day dancing, morning, noon and night on Queen Elizabeth- most in the Queens Room built for the purpose, gold and blue. A large dance floor and stage for band complete the picture. Single ladies are accompanied by gentleman hosts. Jazz concerts and piano recitals are also held there. Every few nights Royal Balls are organized in the Queens Room. Other evening events are shows in the theatre, with 20 V.I.P. boxes. Forward is the Empire Casino and the Golden Lion pub. The pub is cozy and modeled as a British pub, is cozy enough. Roulette, Texas Hold'em, BlackJack and numerous slots are available in the casino- a nonsmoking area. The only smokers places are on balconies, the starboard side on Decks 3 and 10, in Churchill's Lounge on Deck 10. The Midships Bar has seating around a marble bar and comfortable armchairs. In Queens Room, where a lot of people gather each evening drinks are also served. Bigger lounges and bars are on Decks 9 and 10.

Family-oriented in terms of facilities, Queen Elizabeth has the look of a "grown-up" ship. For that reason, families might feel better on P&O or Princess lines. The Zone on Deck 10 is a teenagers' room for computer games, air hockey, Xbox, and for the smaller ones QE suggests a colorful children's playroom full with toys. Outdoor deck space is featured, as well. These operate on port days only, but you better book in advance.

Cunard cruise ship weddings, ceremonies, and parties could be held in some of the QE's lounges. There is no chapel on board the QE ship.

Follows the complete list of Queen Elizabeth lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Royal Court Theatre (832-seat, 3-deck, with a giant movie screen; hosts high-tech visual programs, grand musical productions, and shows, as well as theatrical spectacles, performances by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art)
• iStudy (Cunard ConneXions; separate meeting rooms featuring Internet computers); Internet Centre
• Grand Lobby Atrium (with a grand piano, grand sweeping staircase, interior glass-wall lifts)
• Golden Lion Pub (116-seat traditional British pub bar; features a large selection of the UK and international beers, large-size TVs, live entertainment, small dance floor)
• Empire Casino (222-seat, 6000 ft2 / 610 m2; with 115 slots and 11 gambling tables, served by Casino Bar)
• Queens Arcade (quiet area for relaxation with panoramic views)
• Cunard Place (nautically themed museum); Clarendon Fine Art gallery; Images Gallery (photo gallery)
• Cunard ConneXions (a complex of 3 rooms which host onboard events)
• Chart Room (cocktail bar with live jazz)
• Queens Room (2-level formal dancing ballroom; hosts evening dancing parties and daily dance lessons)
• Veuve Cliquot (Champagne Bar); Cafe Carinthia (patisserie, specialty teas and coffees bar); Midships Bar & Lounge
• Royal Arcade (boutique shops, top name brands); Fortnum and Mason Shop
• The Alcove (a quiet room with a big jigsaw puzzle); Card Room
• Royal Spa & Fitness Centre (size 20000 ft2 / 1860 m2, 2-level; with a Spa, Thalassotherapy Pool, Thermal Suite, Finnish and Herbal Saunas, Treatment Rooms, Relaxation Lounge, Aromatic Steam Room, Beauty Salon)
• Fitness Centre (Gym Room and Weights area; with exercise bikes, Elliptical machines, treadmills, steppers, rowing machines, yoga mats; has Aerobics Room for classes)
• The Library (with a large book selection - over 6000 volumes)
• Pavilion Pool (with 2 Whirlpools and poolside Bar); Lido Pool (with 2 Whirlpools, Bar and Grill)
• Commodore Club (indoor observation lounge with panoramic windows and live piano music)
• Admiral's Lounge (premium liquors)
• Churchill's Cigar Lounge (smokers room with a selection of fine liquors and cigars)
• The Yacht Club Lounge & Disco (nautically themed, glass-domed)
• The PlayZone (indoor/outdoor kids area for children 7+ yo); The Zone (for children 8 to 12 yo); Teen Zone (teenagers club area)
• Games Deck (glass-domed; with tennis court, shuffleboard, croquet, quoits, giant chess, golf simulators, first time at sea complimentary fencing lessons)
• The Terrace (private outdoor area, Grill passengers only); The Grills Lounge (Grill Suites guests only).

Itineraries

Queen Elizabeth itinerary program each year has a World Cruise leaving roundtrip from Southampton UK , with several one-way itinerary segments. The liner also sails in Europe (Canaries, Mediterranean and UK mini cruises), leaving from Southampton.

In February 2018, Cunard announced that for season 2019-2020, the cruise liner will be deployed in Australia to serve a 101-day program. During this season (December 2019 through March 2020), the ship had scheduled 6 roundtrips from Melbourne and 2 roundtrips from Sydney NSW on itineraries to Tasmania, New Zealand, South Australia, Papua New Guinea (14-day from Sydney, with maiden port calls to Conflict Islands and Kiriwina / Trobriand Islands).

For season 2019 (February-March), the ship had a 54-day long Australian season with homeporting in Sydney NSW and Melbourne. In 2019 and 2020, the liner offered a unique for Cunard Alaskan program based on roundtrips from Vancouver BC Canada (read more in the Wiki section).

In summer 2021 (July through October), Cunard scheduled for Queen Elizabeth an ex-UK season with 10 "British Isles Voyages" and 3 "Sun Voyages" (3- to 12-nights itineraries). "British Isles Voyages" offered scenic coastal cruising including Jurassic Coast (Dorset England), Land's End (Cornwall England), Scotland's Isle of Arran , Kintyre Peninsula, Sound of Mull. Four ex-UK voyages visited Belfast Ireland , Greenock , Invergordon , Liverpool , Newcastle , Holyhead Wales (first-time for Cunard). Balcony cabin prices per person (with double occupancy) started from GBP 600/EUR 700/USD 830 (4-night British Isles Voyages), GBP 900/EUR 1050/USD 1240 (7-night Sun Voyages), GBP 1300/EUR 1520/USD 1790 (10-night British Isles Voyage). Bookings were opened only for UK residents.

In late-October 2021, Cunard canceled Queen Elizabeth's Asia 2022 program (a total of 19 itineraries planned between Feb 20 - May 17) which was based on homeporting in Yokohama Japan . The revised 2022 schedule included roundtrips from homeport Southampton to Norway, Spain's Canary Islands, and Western Mediterranean ports, ending with a Grand Voyage (westbound Transatlantic crossing and Panama Canal transit) ending in Vancouver (BC Canada) .

Queen Elizabeth - user reviews and comments

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Other Cunard cruise ships

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Queen Elizabeth Wiki

The Fincantieri Monfalcone -built Queen Elizabeth as vessel design is similar to P&O UK's Arcadia , Princess' Coral and Island , and Costa's Luminosa and Deliziosa . HM Queen Elizabeth II is the ship's Godmother. The naming ceremony was on October 11, 2010. The British monarch also christened Cunard's RMS Queen Mary 2 (2004), and in 1967 - Queen Elizabeth II (QE2 ship ceased operations in 2008).

The inaugural cruise/maiden voyage started on October 12, 2010, leaving from homeport Southampton to Canaries (Spanish autonomy territory). The itinerary visited Lisbon , Cadiz , Tenerife , Santa Cruz de la Palma and also Funchal (Madeira Island, Portugal) . For its first year of service, Queen Elizabeth did around 142,000 mi (230,000 km) of cruising to 100+ different destinations. Among the many celebrities who participated in the onboard show programs were Ruth Scott, Lord Jeffrey Archer, Brian Hoey.

The ship's first birthday was celebrated in Malta (Port Valletta) on October 12, 2011.

On January 13, 2011, the 3 Cunard liners met in the USA ( New York City ) on a second "Royal Rendezvous" to commemorate the second year after the first Royal Rendezvous. On this occasion, Elizabeth and Victoria crossed together the Atlantic Ocean. All Cunard ships gathered again in Southampton on June 5, 2012, to celebrate HM's diamond jubilee. A month later (on July 15), for the first time ever, Queen Elizabeth and QM2 docked together in Hamburg (Germany) .

In October 2011, the vessel changed its registry/flagstate  from the UK to Bermuda, which allows cruise wedding ceremonies to be held on the ship. The word “Southampton” on the stern was replaced with “Hamilton”.

On March 12, 2013, the liner passed by RMS Queen Mary - an earlier Cunard fleet member. QM is now permanently docked at Long Beach CA (Los Angeles) , serving as a ship hotel. On March 13, 2017, the ship departed on its ever first cruise leaving roundtrip from Japan ( Kobe-Osaka ). The 7-day itinerary (March 13-20) came after the local municipal government asked Cunard to schedule a Kobe-based cruise as in 2017 Port Kobe celebrated its 150th anniversary. The voyage included the Japanese ports Kagoshima , Busan , Hiroshima  and Kochi . This "surprise cruise" became part of the 2017 world voyage. CLIA's "2017 Summit at Sea" conference (May 9-17, 2017) was held onboard the ship. The itinerary (May 8-12) was roundtrip from Southampton to Hamburg .

In 2019, Cunard repositioned the liner for a 2-month long season in Australia (February-March), with departures from homeports Melbourne and Sydney on 7 cruises to NZ, South Australia, and Tasmania. For the liner's Australian deployment, Cunard partnered with 4 local brands (R.M.Williams / fashion, Akubra Hats, Starward Whisky/distillery, and Australian Dance Theatre). Under the Starward distillery partnership, the ship carried "The Seafarer" (a 225-litre barrel of the boutique whisky). It was loaded in Sydney NSW and positioned on the top deck to spend 12 months around the world, and will be opened in February 2019 at the Australian season's start. The partnership with Australian Dance Theatre will result in live performances, along with onboard dance classes and workshops.

Operated regularly and starting in January each year, Queen Elizabeth offers Cunard World Cruise deals with affordable pricing, popular destinations, and big-city ports to visit around the world.

Cunard cruises Alaska 2019-2020

In 2019, MS Queen Elizabeth had scheduled Cunard's first-ever Alaskan cruise season in over 20 years. The 27-day Pacific Ocean crossing itinerary (Asia-Alaska repositioning, May 5-31, 2019, Yokohama to Vancouver ) included as call ports Aomori , Tomakomai-Sapporo , Kodiak , Juneau , Anchorage , Skagway , Sitka , Ketchikan , Icy Strait Point . Cunard's 2019 Alaskan program included all four 10-night long roundtrips out of Vancouver to Tracy Arm Fjord and Hubbard Glacier .

On Queen Elizabeth, Cunard offers culturally-rich shipboard programming for all 2019 cruises to Alaska. The program includes four 10-day roundtrips (themed ‘The Last Frontier") with departures from Vancouver BC (2019 departure dates - May 21 and 31, June 10 and 20), with call ports Icy Strait Point , Juneau , Ketchikan , Sitka , Victoria BC , Skagway . Highlights include scenic cruising through Inside Passage , Hubbard Glacier , Tracy Arm Fjord . Cunard’s 2019 Alaskan program includes the following special onboard amenities:

• Lectures by Dr. Rachel Cartwright - a naturalist with 20+ years of experience in Alaska
• Live performances by Alaska Native Voices and members of Huna Tinglet tribe
• Presentations by LaDonna Rose Gundersen - cookbook author and commercial fisherwoman
• Dedicated in-cabin TV entertainment, including the documentary series “The Ketchikan Story”
• Complimentary hot cocoa and blankets provided on Sun Deck
• Live Navigation Bridge commentaries

On Queen Elizabeth, Cunard also planned a full 2020 Alaskan season (June through September). Due to high demand, the Alaskan 2020 program was doubled (in comparison to 2019) with 10 roundtrips from Vancouver (ranging 9 to 12 days) plus one roundtrip to San Francisco (overnight on Independence Day).

Each Alaskan voyage offers popular destinations along the coast of British Columbia (Canada) and Alaska (USA), and longer port times in Juneau , Ketchikan , Skagway , Sitka . In addition, these voyages offer scenic cruising in Inside Passage , Hubbard Glacier and along Sawyer Glacier ( Endicott Arm and Tracy Arm ). Cunard customers also can combine these itineraries into B2Bs (back-to-back cruises) . Cunard's 2020 Alaskan cruises include:

• 10-day "Alaska Voyage" roundtrip from Vancouver (June 2-12, 2019), fares start from USD 1600 pp.
• 3-day "Independence Day Celebration" from Vancouver to San Francisco (July 2-5), fares start from USD 600 pp.
• 16-day repositioning from San Francisco to Vancouver (July 5-21), fares start from USD 2660 pp.
• 29-day repositioning from Vancouver to Tokyo (August 29-September 28), fares start from USD 4460 pp.

Cunard Line offers for booking over 140 shore tours in Alaska, including "Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest", "Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest", "Taku Lodge Feast and Five-Glacier Seaplane Discovery", "Dogsled Adventure by Helicopter", "Wilderness Sea Kayaking Adventure", "Cooking in Alaska's Wildest Kitchen", "Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour", "Scenic Mountain Ascent and World's Largest ZipRider".

Other Alaskan shore excursions are themed as ATV Expedition, Wilderness Cruise and Silverking Lodge Seafood Feast, White Pass Scenic Railway (Luxury Class), Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show and Crab Feast, Misty Fjords Seaplane Exploration, Ghosts, and Goodtime Girls Walking Tour, Exclusive Burro Creek Waterfall Lodge and Crab Feast.

Cunard also offers pre- and post-cruise rail tours, that include 3- or 5-day hotel plus 2 full days on the train. Rocky Mountaineer train travels through scenic destinations, such as the glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, mountain passes, tunnels, and river canyons.

MS Queen Elizabeth refurbishments review

The ship's last drydocking was in 2023 (March 16 thru April 3) in Singapore , conducted at Sembawang shipyard (owned by Sembcorp Marine Ltd). The project was for regularly scheduled maintenance works, including hotel upkeep, technical overhauls, steel works, minor machinery updates.

The ship's 12-day drydock refurbishment in 2018 (November 15-27, at Damen Shiprepair Brest in Brest France ) resulted in the following changes:

• All staterooms (cabins and suites) were upgraded.
• (deck 3) Royal Arcade was redesigned.
• (deck 1) Royal Court Theatre (main show lounge) was completely overhauled (its audio and video equipment was upgraded).
• (Lido deck 9) open-deck spaces on Sun Deck were upgraded with new furniture, shaded seating areas were expanded.
• (deck 9) ship's wellness complex "Mareel Wellness & Beauty" (Spa, Beauty Salon) was extensively refurbished, and its treatments menu was upgraded via partnership with Canyon Ranch.

Maintenance works included stabilizers, ABB Azipods (azimuth thrusters), water-ballast tanks, EGCS (scrubbers/exhaust gas cleaning system), piping and ducting, safety equipment (lifeboats, liferafts), tender boats, renovations of hallways and corridors, cleaning and repainting the hull. All works were conducted at Damen Shiprepair Brest shipyard.

The boat's drydock 2014 was conducted by Blohm+Voss (in Hamburg Germany ) and resulted in the following changes:

• hull works (cleaning and repainting) and routine maintenance
• technology enhancements: filter system upgrade, scrubbers (new eco-friendly technology to lower exhaust gasses and bettering the fuel efficiency), Azipod (Azimuth thruster) propulsion modifications
• onboard enhancements: new carpeting in all public spaces, passenger cabins (new mattresses and flat TVs), restaurant renovations (plus new coffee-tea makers), new jewelry shops (on Promenade Deck 3), restyling of the Lido buffet area (Deck 9), Photo Studio upgrade (new touch screen photo processing system), new sun-awning systems (on open decks 9 and 12)
• 9 new single cabins were added on Deck 2 (8 Oceanview, 1 Standard Inside) taking some of the Casino space.

Queen Elizabeth Deck 6 deck plan

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• Deluxe Interior

Princess Suite

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Grand Suite

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Cruisedeckplans provides full interactive deck plans for the Queen Elizabeth Deck 6 deck. Just move your mouse over any cabin and a pop up will appear with detail information, including a full description and floor layout, and a link to pictures and/or videos. These are the newest deck plans for Queen Elizabeth Deck 6 deck plan showing public venues and cabin numbers and locations.

You are viewing deck: Deck 6 plan

Click on another deck below to view more deck plans.   Click here for LIVE SHIP TRACKING

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Cabin Check Tool

Looking for deck 6 (deck) actual cabin pics and videos, sub categories on deck 6, click links below to view category info including cabin pics and videos for that category on the queen elizabeth..

This tool will help you see what is on the deck above and the deck below your stateroom. Don't be surprised by loud chair scraping noise above you.

Accessible cabins on Deck 6

These cabins are on the Queen Elizabeth

Cabin 6003 BE Category Balcony

Cabin 6004 BE Category Balcony

Cabin 6083 GA Category Deluxe Inside

Cabin 6089 GA Category Deluxe Inside

Cabin 6093 GA Category Deluxe Inside

Cabin 6108 BA Category Balcony

Cabin 6113 BA Category Balcony

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Type: Balcony

Cabin is 190 ft 2 , Balcony is 54 ft 2

Staterooms range in size from 190 to 420 square feet with 54 square foot balconies. A6 Cabins 4003-4042 and A7 Cabins have metal fronted balconies. A6 Cabins views are partially obstructed by lifeboats.

*Actual cabin size and layout may differ from size and diagram shown.

CDP Code: Balcony

- King-size bed that convert to two twins - balcony with loungers and tables - balcony has plexiglass lower half to enhance ocean views - - 24-hour room service - Bathrobe and slippers - Nightly turndown service with pillow chocolate - Satellite TV with multi-language film and music channels - Refrigerator, safe, hair dryer - Daily shipboard newspaper - Half a bottle of Bon Voyage wine - Direct-dial telephone - Fruit basket (on request) - 220V British 3-pin and 110V 2-pin sockets

Deluxe Inside

Type: Deluxe Interior

Cabin is 200 ft 2

Stateroom size ranges from 200 to 243 square feet.

CDP Code: Deluxe Inside

- King-size bed that convert to two twins - 24-hour room service - Bathrobe and slippers - Nightly turndown service with pillow chocolate - Satellite TV with multi-language film and music channels - Refrigerator, safe, hair dryer - Daily shipboard newspaper - Half a bottle of Bon Voyage wine - Direct-dial telephone - Fruit basket (on request) - 220V British 3-pin and 110V 2-pin sockets

Type: Grand Suite

Cabin is 1375 ft 2

Staterooms range from 1375 to 1493 square feet including balcony.

CDP Code: Grand Suite

- Master bedroom with king-size bed - marble bath with whirlpool tub - television - expansive balcony - dining area for eight - powder room - refrigerator - safe - luxury robes and slippers - hairdryer - phone - data port

Standard Inside

Type: Inside

Cabin is 152 ft 2

Category LC is a cabin for singles.

CDP Code: Inside

Type: Oceanview

Cabin is 180 ft 2

Stateroom size ranges from 180 to 201 square feet. Category KC is a cabin for singles.

CDP Code: Oceanview

- King-size bed that convert to two twins - 24-hour room service - Bathrobe and slippers - Nightly turndown service with pillow chocolate - Satellite TV with multi-language film and music channels - Refrigerator, safe, hair dryer - Daily shipboard newspaper - Half a bottle of Bon Voyage wine - Direct-dial telephone - Fruit basket (on request) - 220V British 3-pin and 110V 2-pin sockets - C4 and C5 staterooms have obstructed views.

Type: Penthouse

Cabin is 520 ft 2

Staterom size ranges from 520 to 707 square feet includijng balcony.

CDP Code: Penthouse

- King-size bed - living room - teak balcony - full bath with whirlpool tub - powder room - guest bath - dining area that seats four - frette linens - walk-in closets - fully stocked bar - refrigerator - safe - bathrobes with slippers - hairdryer - phone - television - data port

Type: Princess Suite

Cabin is 291 ft 2 , Balcony is 90 ft 2

Staterooms range from 291 to 420 square feet plus a 90 square foot balcony.

CDP Code: Princess Suite

- King-size bed - seating area with sofas - large balcony furnished with loungers and tables - full bath with tub - walk-in closets - frette linens - refrigerator - safe - bathrobes with slippers - hairdryer - phone - television - data port.

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4 Ships in the Cunard fleet

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Queen Mary 2 Overview

The Queen Mary 2 is famous for making her regular transatlantic crossings from London (Southampton) to New York. During these crossings passengers are welcomed to participate in tons of activities. During the day you can take acting classes hosted by performers from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art or get some exercise playing a tennis match on the Sports Court. The liner’s piece de resistance is the full-scale planetarium, where you can gaze above as you learn about the mysteries of the universe. At night get ready to break out your dancing shoes when you attend a formal ball. All throughout your cruise you’ll be meet with helpful staff and taste some of the finest food at sea. It’s truly a royal sailing experience. 

• Passenger Capacity: 2,691 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2004
• Last Refurbished: 2020

Queen Mary 2 Cruise Destinations

Cunard Line is famous for its transatlantic sailings, but they offer an impressive set of destinations and some fantastic itineraries all over the world. Visit four continents and hundreds of ports-of-call ranging from Tortola, British Virgin Islands to Tallinn, Estonia. Whether it be a historically enriching cruise to Northern Europe, or a tropical Hawaiian vacation, one of Cunard’s three regal ships will proudly be your vessel. 

From Mauritius to Cape Town, immerse yourself in the rugged beauty and special historical, cultural and culinary attractions of a cruise to Africa with Cunard Line.

Delight in the historic treasures and scenic pleasures of the Far East on a cruise through Asia aboard Cunard Line’s world-famous ocean liners.

Fall Foliage will delight you and the quaint history and culture will engage you onboard a cruise to Canada & New England.

Eastern Caribbean

Live the island life with Cunard in the Eastern Caribbean, where the sun is always shining. 

History comes alive when you visit sites like the Colosseum in Rome, Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin and the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. 

Northern Europe

History of royalty, fjords of Norway, and Baltic delights—Northern Europe cruises are an exciting vacation option.

Panama Canal

See man-made and natural wonders on a serene Cunard Line sailing through the revolutionary Panama Canal.

Transatlantic

Enjoy the excellent experience that is a vacation away from the everyday, sailing across the Atlantic and stopping at intriguing ports—try a transatlantic cruise.

Find adventure. Indulge on fine cuisine. Interact with everything from dolphins to wallabies. Travel the world with a World Voyage.

Queen Mary 2 Departure Ports

Traveling across the pond, there’s no cruise line better than Cunard, with more than 150 years of history, this brand makes routine cruises from Southampton to New York City and vice versa. However, they offer more than just transatlantic sailings. You can sail around the world with Cunard from Tokyo to Athens to San Francisco. Call The Cruise Web for a great offer on a Cunard cruise.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is a modern city that people from all nationalities flock towards to indulge in designer clothes, fancy hotels and the high life.

The near perfect days, beautiful scenery, pristine beaches and sparkling water offer the perfect backdrop for any dream adventure in Sydney, Australia.

Hong Kong, Hong Kong Sar, China

One of the world’s most exciting modern cities, Hong Kong offers a true East meets West experience where you can shop for traditional Chinese cure-alls and attend high tea all in the same afternoon.

Singapore, Singapore

Southeast Asia’s most modern city, Singapore, also contains a lot of history and treasures from the past, along with a perfect tropical climate – all making Singapore a wonderful destination year round.

Le Havre (Paris), France

In Northern France, explore Le Havre, a city with modern architecture and one of the most inspiring collections of Impressionist artwork.

Hamburg, Germany

A large city, Hamburg offers visitors an array of attractions. From the old buildings of the past to the vibrant red light district, there’s something for everyone cruising to Hamburg, Germany.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

The possibilities are endless when cruising to or from the City of Angels. Let your inner rock star shine as you explore the many wonders of Los Angeles, California.

Take in the incredible art scene of New York City, expand your cultural horizons in the city’s diverse neighborhoods and marvel at the architectural wonders.

Quebec City, Quebec

It’s easy to be wowed by Quebec City as Old World Europe is mixed with North American cultures alongside breathtaking landscapes and the flowing Saint Lawrence River.

On a cruise from San Francisco you can experience all that the ‘City by the Bay’ has to offer, from its artistic, forward-looking culture to the beautiful coastline.

The cruise port of Southampton features tons of diverse attractions that provide insight into England’s culture and storied past, including fortresses, gardens and national parks.

Queen Mary 2 Deck Plans

Deck eleven, deck twelve, deck thirteen, queen mary 2 staterooms.

Balcony (BB)

Enjoy the view from your private balcony or the comfort of your luxurious interior as you relax in your well appointed accommodation. The Britannia Balcony staterooms have two beds, a shower, living area and balcony.

Balcony (BC)

Balcony (bf).

Balcony (DB)

Balcony (dc), balcony (df).

Balcony (BU)

Balcony (bv), balcony (by), balcony (bz).

Balcony (B3)

Our spacious balcony staterooms include a sitting area with sofa, ample closet space and bathroom with shower. (269 sq. ft.)

Balcony (A1)

Your Britannia Club Balcony offers space to relax, both inside and on your generous balcony. You will also dine in the Britannia Club Restaurant, a private area of the grand Britannia Restaurant, offering you the freedom to choose when you eat each evening. The Britannia Club Balcony staterooms have two beds, a shower, living area and balcony.

Balcony (A2)

Inside (KC)

From organised coffee gatherings to a host of daytime activities, solo travellers will always feel welcome and busy on board. Of course, thereÂ’s something to be said for relaxation too so you will find plenty of personal space both inside and out. The Britannia Single Oceanview staterooms have one bed, a living area and a shower.

Inside (IA)

Relax in complete peace and comfort, cocooned from the stress of the everyday. The Britannia Standard Inside staterooms have one bed, a desk area with seat and a shower.

Inside (IB)

Inside (ic), inside (ie), inside (if).

Inside (HB)

Relax in complete peace and comfort, cocooned from the stress of the everyday. The Britannia Atrium View Inside staterooms have one bed, a desk area with seat and a shower.

Oceanview (KB)

Oceanview (EF)

Gaze upon an ever changing seascape from your large window, which offers lots of natural light in your spacious stateroom. The Britannia Oceanview staterooms have one bed, a living area and a shower.

our Princess Grill Suite is spacious and relaxing. A private balcony and separate seating area offers space to relax and, of course you have exclusive access to the Grills Lounge and renowned Princess Grill restaurant. The Princess Suites have two beds, a bath and shower along with a living area and balcony.

Your Queens Grill Suite is the pinnacle of luxury at sea. A personal butler will see to your every request, a large lounge area offers space to relax and your suite will command the very best views. The Grand Duplexes have a bedroom and two master bathrooms upstairs. Downstairs you'll find a guest bathroom, a living and dining area as well as a balcony.

Your Queens Grill Suite is the pinnacle of luxury at sea. A personal butler will see to your every request, a large lounge area offers space to relax and your suite will command the very best views. The Penthouse Suites have two beds, a bath, a shower, a living area and a balcony.

Your Queens Grill Suite is the pinnacle of luxury at sea. A personal butler will see to your every request, a large lounge area offers space to relax and your suite will command the very best views. The Queens Suites have two beds, a bath, a shower, a living area and a balcony.

Your Queens Grill Suite is the pinnacle of luxury at sea. A personal butler will see to your every request, a large lounge area offers space to relax and your suite will command the very best views. The Royal Suites have a bedroom, bath and shower as well as seperate living and dining areas.

Photo Gallery for Queen Mary 2 Cruise Ship

Get a glimpse at the regal atmosphere that awaits you on a Cunard Cruise among one of their three Queens: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth in this photo gallery. 

Commodore Club

Queen Mary 2

Winter Garden

Top 10 Queen Mary 2 Cruises

• Queen Mary 2 7 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From New York, New York (May 2024 - Nov 2026)
• Queen Mary 2 2 NIGHT Europe CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (May 2024 - Oct 2026)
• Queen Mary 2 2 NIGHT Europe CRUISE Departing From Hamburg, Germany (May 2024 - Jul 2026)
• Queen Mary 2 7 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (May 2024 - Dec 2026)
• Queen Mary 2 6 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Jun 2024 - Jul 2024)
• Queen Mary 2 8 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From New York, New York (Jun 2024 - Jan 2027)
• Queen Mary 2 7 NIGHT Canada / New England CRUISE Departing From New York, New York (Jun 2024 - Sep 2026)
• Queen Mary 2 27 NIGHT Europe - Northern CRUISE Departing From New York, New York (Jul 2024)
• Queen Mary 2 10 NIGHT Transatlantic CRUISE Departing From New York, New York (Jul 2024)
• Queen Mary 2 12 NIGHT Europe - Northern CRUISE Departing From Southampton, England (Aug 2024 - Aug 2026)

Learn More About Cunard

Accessibility

Learn about Cunard Line's handicap accessible cruises and accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities.

Savor variety of dining options aboard Cunard Line cruises, including the Queens Grill, Princess Grill, Britannia restaurant, Queens Room, Todd English, Kings Court, Golden Lion Pub and more.

Entertainment

Enjoy Cunard Line's onboard entertainment, including live music, the Royal Court Theatre, Commodore Club entertainment, Royal Night Theme Balls, Queens Room dancing, karaoke and more.

Onboard Activities

Participate in Cunard Line's onboard activities, including Cunard Insights lectures, Book Clubs, computer lab, duty-free shopping, sports courts, art galleries, dance classes, afternoon tea, deck games, golf simulators and more.

Service & Awards

Learn about Cunard Line's famous White Star Service and extensive list of onboard services. Plus, view Cunard Line's cruising awards.

Spa & Fitness

Relax in Cunard Line's pools, the Royal Spa and Canyon Ranch SpaClub, where spa treatments range from relaxing massages to Ayurvedic experiences.

Special Events

Learn about Cunard Line's special cruises with exclusive speakers, activities and shore excursions, including Wine Lecture and Tasting voyages.

Explore Cunard Line's luxurious staterooms, including Queen and Princess Grill Suites, balconies, oceanviews and inside staterooms - each beautifully appointed in Cunard's classic style.

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children aboard Cunard Line. Cunard's youth programs are for ages 2 - 17, including the Play Zone (ages 2-7), Kids Zone (ages 8-12) and Teen Zone (ages 13-17).

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Vintage photos show the Queen Elizabeth 2 cruise ship in its heyday during the 1960s and 1970s

• The Queen Elizabeth 2 was a luxury cruise liner launched in 1967.
• When it completed its maiden voyage in 1969, the QE2 was a marvel of modern cruising and design.
• The ship was retired in 2008 and later turned into a luxury hotel in Dubai.

Named for Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen Elizabeth 2 cruise ship is remembered as one of the most luxurious ships to ever sail the sea.

The ship was launched on September 20, 1967, by Queen Elizabeth herself, and it completed her maiden voyage the following year. 

Here's a look back at what the Queen Elizabeth 2 looked like when it first launched and during its heyday during the 1960s and '70s.

The Queen Elizabeth 2 was a British ocean liner and cruise ship that set new standards in luxury travel.

The Queen Elizabeth 2, or QE2, was launched on September 20, 1967. It cost £30 million, or $36.5 million, to build, according to Royal Museums Greenwich .

"There are no ships like it today, quite frankly," Andy Dinsdale, a former cruise director on the QE2, told Condé Nast Travel in 2021. "She was the fastest ship of her type in the world at that time. You look at the ships nowadays, they're all sky rises on ship bases. The QE2 was sleek, she was slim. She was made to cut through the ocean waves and she did it beautifully — fast and elegantly."

While flying was becoming an increasingly popular way to travel, cruising was still a way to cross the Atlantic for many people.

The ship was built by John Brown & Company of Clydebank, Scotland, for the Cunard Line.

It measured 963 feet long, which is 80 feet longer than the infamous Titanic that sailed in 1912. The QE2 weighed 65,863 tons and was fitted to carry 2,000 passengers. 

The ship was named after Queen Elizabeth II, who attended its launch.

In the photo above, Queen Elizabeth II and John Rannie, the managing director of the Clydebank shipyard, can be seen attending the launch of the Queen Elizabeth 2.

Roughly 30,000 spectators attended the ceremony and a bottle of Australian wine was smashed against the ship's bow. 

The ship completed her full maiden voyage in May 1969, after her maiden voyage in December 1968 was cut short due to turbine trouble.

For her maiden voyage, the QE2 sailed between Southampton, England, and New York. The voyage lasted about four days. 

Designed by Dennis Lennon, the ship's interiors were perfectly in keeping with the funky, modern design styles of the 1960s.

The photo above shows the interior of the Queen's Room, a large reception and dining area, on the QE2 in 1969.

The room featured carpeting and modernist furnishings that epitomized style and luxury at the time, which appeared inspired by the aesthetic of the jet and space age, The RIBA Journal reported.

Cruise liners like the QE2 set a new standard for luxury travel.

Above, passengers converse in the VIP lounge aboard the QE2 luxury liner in 1969.

The ship had a number of different dining rooms, which were seated according to which class ticket a passenger held, according to Condé Naste Travel. Afternoon tea took place each day with white-glove service, or guests could enjoy a cocktail at the piano bar.

The ship also offered guests the opportunity to attend classical music or jazz orchestra performances, take ballroom-dance classes, or attend lectures given by prominent filmmakers. 

There were multiple restaurants on board the QE2, including the Britannia Restaurant, which is still on board the ship today, and the Columbia Restaurant.

It was also typical for people to dress in suits, cocktail dresses, and gowns to eat dinner — something you rarely see on cruise ships today .

A photo of a recent menu that recreated the one served during the maiden voyage of the QE2 showed that guests dined on dishes like pan-seared scallops, fois gras parfait, halibut, and lamb. 

Many celebrities sailed on the QE2 during the height of its fame.

Actress Elizabeth Taylor and her husband Richard Burton sailed aboard the ship in 1970.

Audrey Hepburn, Carrie Fisher, Jane Seymour, and Meryl Streep are just a few other notable celebrities who have sailed on the QE2, according to Cunard.

By the 1970s, many of the modernist, space-age-inspired furnishings of '60s were replaced with simpler styles.

In 1972, the QE2 was refitted for the first time, and many of the original interior-design elements were removed. 

"In its original condition, which only lasted for three years, it was one of the great unsung masterpieces of the post-war era," Bruce Peter, a professor of design history at the Glasgow School of Art, told The RIBA Journal in 2018.

The cabins were still luxurious and spacious, but not as striking as they were when the ship first launched.

In the photo above, an employee makes the bed of one of the ship's cabins in 1975.

In the early 1970s, some of the ship's lounge areas were turned into restaurants and a casino in order to be more lucrative for the ship's owners.

As The RIBA Journal reported, "wear and tear" was another reason for the ship's redesign, thanks to years of cigarette smoke and the natural deterioration of the furnishings due to the thousands of passengers that sailed the ship during its first three years at sea.

In 1975, the QE2 set sail from Southampton on her first world cruise.

The ship sailed 38,000 miles and visited 23 ports in 92 days. The QE2 would go on to complete 25 world cruises during her career.

While the ship looks drastically different than many modern, luxury cruise lines of today, it still gave its passengers plenty of space to lounge, relax, and soak up the sun.

The photo above shows the original pool deck aboard the QE2. The original pool, where aqua aerobics classes once took place, is still there today.

In April 1982, the QE2 was briefly used as a troopship to carry members of the British military to the Falkland Islands during the war with Argentina.

The ship sailed to South Georgia with 3,000 troops aboard, and it arrived back in Southampton in June 1982. 

Throughout her life as an operating cruise liner, the QE2 traveled more than 6 million miles and carried more than 2.5 million passengers.

The ship was officially retired and sold in 2008. 

In 2018, after millions of dollars was spent refurbishing and restoring the ship to its former glory, the QE2 opened as a luxury hotel in Dubai. 

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CUNARD QM2 SHIP CRUISE ITINERARY, SCHEDULE, PRICES, INFORMATION

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• QM2 Transatlantic Crossings

This is the Cunard Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise 2024-2025-2026  schedule of all one-way and round-trip Atlantic Ocean crossings. It shows all departures from New York ,  Southampton-London , and Hamburg as dates and prices per person. RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic crossings are part of the Cunard Line’s regular Atlantic Ocean crossing service between the UK and the USA (London/Southampton and NYC New York). Next is the link to our complete  QM2 itineraries and schedule  (all sailing dates with the lowest prices comparison). This link is to our review of QM2 cruise ticket prices .

Longest QM2 Transatlantic crossings are between New York and Hamburg (Germany /9-day itinerary with Southampton, England). The longest QM2 Transatlantic cruises are when the Caribbean or Canada New England is part of the Atlantic Ocean crossing itinerary.

RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise experience

The Cunard Line maintains a scheduled Trans-Atlantic Ocean passenger service between the UK and the US. It’s almost like a ferry cruise service – but it’s absolutely not a ferry one!

The Cunard Transatlantic cruise schedule offers at least one crossing a month between UK/Southampton and USA/New York City, in the period from April to November or early December. Most of the crossings are 6 nights / 7 days in length. On the Cunard’s RMS Queen Mary 2 ship, it’s definitely the most civilized and adventurous exciting way to visit the UK and USA – or both!

Doing the 7-day voyage on Queen Mary 2 is not a Transatlantic cruise – it’s an Atlantic crossing. Most of the Transatlantic cruises are operated only in the low season when quite a number of cruise ships reposition between Europe and the North or South American continents. But the huge number of QM2 passengers use the Cunard crossings as their preferred travel mode between Europe and the USA. And QM2 is not any ship and not a regular “cruise ship” – she’s a real-deal ocean cruise liner, which power and hull strength helps her to withstand the nasty North Atlantic weather.

Celebrating the 200th QM2 Transatlantic Crossing

To mark her 200th Atlantic Ocean crossing, RMS Queen Mary 2 performed on July 6th a sail-by of NYC’s most famous attraction – the Statue of Liberty. The list of onboard special events includes lectures and presentations by renowned speakers (by the “Cunard Insights” enrichment programme), Big Band musical performances, a most special Gala Dinner (on 11 July). Stephen Payne (a naval architect, responsible for the QM2 design) will present an insight into her construction. He is also guest of honour at the Gala Dinner. Another renown speaker is the BBC’s Nick Owen. Performing onboard is a jazz orchestra of 13 musicians and 1 vocalist from the Juilliard School (juilliard.edu). They will perform in the Royal Court Theatre (in the evening), an afternoon tea dance, lunchtime jam sessions (in the Chart Room), and a late evening in the Illuminations (planetarium).

RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic Crossing statistics and facts

• This cruise liner is one of the biggest (weight 151,000 tons, capacity 2,500+ guests, and 3,056 max/all berths, 1,250 crew), longest (1,132 ft), tallest (550 ft) and most expensive (cost to build USD 800 million) passenger ships ever built. QM2 is also the only one still operational ocean liner, and she is the fastest cruise ship in the world (service speed 34 mph). RMS QM2 is the most famous cruise ship afloat – simply there’s no other ship in the world to enjoy such respect and recognition.
• In the course of the vessel’s 200 Transatlantic Crossings over 500,000 passengers were carried. They have consumed more than 8,400,000 cups of tea; more than 980,000 scones; over 481,000 bottles of champagne; more than 644,000 eggs; nearly 960,000 liters of milk, and 22,400,000 meals have been served. More than 1,000 dogs have been transported in the QM2 kennels.
• In comparison to other Cunard ships, QM2 has many seasons still ahead – RMS Queen Mary (1001 crossings), RMS Queen Elizabeth (896 crossings), ms Queen Elizabeth 2 (812 crossings).

The Cunard’s flagship QM2 cruise liner is a classic/authentic Trans-Atlantic Ocean liner offering deals on regular one-way and round-trip Cunard crossings between UK/England and USA/New York (NYC, Brooklyn). The regular QM2 crossings also offer cruises between New York and Hamburg (Germany) – again with both one-way and longer round-trip itinerary. In this survey, we list only the regular crossings which do not include additional ports of call.

Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic 2024-2025-2026 crossings (UK-USA-UK-Germany)

The following tables show all Queen Mary 2 ship departures from Southampton to New York and the reverse from New York to Southampton. They are part of the ship’s scheduled regular service on  Cunard Transatlantic Crossings: Westbound routes (from the UK to the USA) and Eastbound routes (from the USA to the UK). Prices are only indicative and subject to change.

QM2 schedule from Southampton to New York (UK-USA crossings) and Hamburg (UK-Germany)

The Queen Mary 2 cruise ship is usually departing from Southampton at 5PM and arriving in New York from 6:30 to 7AM. For exact New York USA arrival times please visit the Cunard Line’s website.

Cunard QM2 Southampton cruise port embarkation

There are four possible Southampton cruise terminals where you can board the Queen Mary 2 ship – so check your booking for the exact terminal:

• QE2 Terminal (dock gate 4)
• City Terminal (dock gate 10)
• Mayflower Terminal (dock gate 10)
• Ocean Terminal (dock gate 4).
• The taxi service from Southampton Central is ~10 min, costs ~£7 to Mayflower/City, and ~£10 to QE2/Ocean terminals.
• For schedules and price information on all the trains to Southampton from London and other major UK cities please visit nationalrail.co.uk. For the port’s cruise ship schedule you can visit CruiseMapper (cruisemapper.com/ports/southampton-port-115).

Queen Mary 2 Southampton boarding/check-in services open at 1 pm, and close ~3:45 pm (the exact check-in time is on your Cunard ticket). The line will also send you or you can download and print information about your departure date and room number (print them and put one on each of your bags). Remember that the baggage weight limit is 23 kg / 51 pounds per bag (no limit about their number).

At the check-in service desk, you show your ticket, passport, and credit card for on-ship purchases, and a photo will be taken for security purposes. You will be given a plastic card acting as an embarkation card, room key, and charge card on the ship. After the security check, you embark on the RMS Queen Mary 2.

Cunard QM2 New York cruise port disembarkation

All QM2 NYC disembarkation procedures are delivered to your cabin 1/2 days before the Brooklyn arrival. The Cunard’s “Express disembarkation” service allows you to leave the QM2 ship ~1/2 hour after docking (~7:30am). The standard procedure includes delivering to your cabin of colored labels for your baggage 1 day before the NYC arrival (put one on each of your bags, move them outside your cabin by the door between 8-12 pm the night before arrival. Your bags will be st the Brooklyn cruise terminal next morning, in a dedicated zone marked with your labels color. Know that they disembark the more expensive rooms guests first. The QM2 disembarkation time is 8-11 am.

QM2 schedule from New York to Southampton (USA-UK crossings) and Hamburg (USA-Germany)

Qm2 new york cruise information.

The Queen Mary 2 ship is usually departing from the New York cruise port terminal in Brooklyn at 5 PM. The ship’s check-in services start at 1 PM, and close at 3:45 PM. QM2 arrives at the Southampton cruise port at 6:30 AM. Again, please visit the line’s website for the exact Southampton UK arrival times confirmation.

QM2 New York/Port Brooklyn embarkation

Queen Mary 2 New York boarding/check-in services open at ~1 pm to ~3:45 pm (local time). The embarkation time, along with the other standard procedures information are the same as those about the UK departures from Southampton, since this is the Cunard policy and not the port policy-related issue. So you have the e-tickets with all the info, Cunard will send you labels with departure dates/room numbers, the bag weight limit is again 23kg per bag, you get through the security check, join the queue for check-in, show tickets/passports/credit cards, they take your photo, give you the plastic card for onboard uses, and you embark the cruise ship Queen Mary 2.

The QM2 Southampton disembarkation procedures are also the same as those for the NYC disembarkation – you’ll receive a note explaining them outside your cabin 1 or 2 days before the UK arrival, you can choose standard or “Express” disembarkation, put labels on your bags, place the bags outside your cabin between 8-12 pm the night before the UK arrival, etc. The London/Southampton disembarkation is between 8-11 AM local time.

Note: For exact times and prices on trains to NYC leaving from major US cities please visit amtrak.com  (the Amtrak train schedule).

QM2 schedule from Hamburg to Southampton and New York (Germany-UK-USA crossings)

You can share our “QM2 Transatlantic” review and the RMS Queen Mary 2 Transatlantic cruise schedule via our social buttons. Enjoy the ever best of the best British cruise ships departing from Southampton and New York, and be always happy on your uniquely special Cunard Transatlantic crossings on Queen Mary 2 – the Royal Mail Ship of the 21st century!

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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