CUNARD Queen Mary 2 in 2024: STILL the WORLD'S most LUXURIOUS ship?
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- Опубликовано: 22 май 2024
- The Cunard Queen Mary 2 has often been titled 'The World's Best Luxury liner and ship. Is that still true today? Our review will uncover if the magic is still there.
Famous for the transatlantic crossing between Southampton and New York, the QM2 is now sailing around the world. We'll walk you through, on a full ship tour, so you can see the dazzling array of elegance and luxury, what activities take place, the cuisine you could expect. In this video we take you into the heart of the ship, you'll see the gorgeous Gala Nights, when people dress up to the nines.The amazing restaurants, and timeless staterooms. We then ask: should you book a cruise on her? Would it be perfect for you?
We take you from top to bottom, as we explore her restaurants, bars, the Queens Ballroom, Champagne Bar, Britannia Dining Room, The Queens Grill, The Queen Mary 2 Queens Grill suite, the Princess Grill suite, decks, the Spa facilities, Kings Court Buffet, public rooms and accommodation.
We'll share with you exactly what it's like to live onboard this ship for the voyage. What can be improved and Cunard cruise news.
We visit amongst others : the Carinthia Lounge, G32 nightclub, Royal Court theatre, Gala Dinner, afternoon tea, the biggest library at sea, illuminations planetarium
Cruise tips
Cruise news
Cunard cruise ship tour
Cunard Line
Cunard Queen Anne
Cunard Queen Elizabeth
Cunard Queen Victoria
We have several other videos on Cunard Cruises. You can watch those videos here:
Which Cunard Cabin to choose:
• Cunard: Choosing the P...
What is a Cunard buffet like:
• Cunard Queen Mary 2 .....
Queen Mary 2- The Coronation Cruise:
• What's it REALLY like ...
The Quirky side of Queen Mary 2:
• Video
QM2: A virtual Walk around:
• Video
The complete Guide and ships tour to the Cunard Queen Mary 2:
• CUNARD Queen Mary 2 in...
0:00 - Is Queen Mary 2 still the best?
1:27 - How does the ship look?
2:47 - Queens Room
3:45 - Afternoon Tea
5:16 - Britannia Dining Room
6:16 - Gala Dinner
9:46 - the Decks
11:30 - Golden Lion Pub
12:45 - G32, Royal Theatre, Planetarium
14:31 - Kings Court Buffet
15:35 - Quirky parts of the ship
18:47 - Carinthia Lounge
21:10 - Activities, Library, Casino
22:47 - Cabins
24:57 - Sir Samuel's Godiva Chocolate
25:47 - our verdict - is QM2 right for you?
28:00 - our other videos
This is our Queen Mary 2 documentary!
世界で最も有名で最も豪華なクルーズ船、キュナード クイーン メリー 2 を体験してください。なぜこれほどエレガントで、伝統的で、そしてとても楽しいのかをビデオでご覧ください。その経験は世界最高のものです。クルーズ船、レストラン、ダンスが楽しめるエレガントなボールルーム、クイーンズ ルーム、カジノ、バーやクラブ、キャビン、そして食事のすべてをご案内します。
Hi, welcome to Ritzy Travel Guide, bringing you our latest travel reviews from around the globe! We'll be travelling right around the world on cruise ships, all inclusive resorts, tropical destinations... and the deals of the day.
In this video :
Drone shots, amazing work from:
KC Image Works
Cruisescape
Dronescapes
Cunard food, Cunard Snack, cruise ship food, Cunard midnight snack, Queen Mary 2 horn
Coming soon to our channel: full review of P&O Arvia Cruise Ship and P&O Iona cruise ship. We compare them to the offerings from Cunard. Which is better for you ... Arvia and Iona, or the Cunard Ships
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Links to our other videos:
1. P&O Azura - full cruise ship review : • P&O AZURA in 2024: is ...
2. Sindhu restaurant - P&O cruise ship : • Video
3. Epicurean restaurant - P&O cruise ship : • Video
4. Tenerife Carnival 2023 : • Video
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ABOUT ME:
Hi, my name is Bill! Together with my family we have lived in 5 countries around the world, and spend our life travelling, in both a professional and recreational capacity. The aim of this channel is to give an honest, practical viewpoint, showing exactly what we found, and what tips we may be able to offer. We do not sell vacations, and the objective is to give a fully independent, and real picture. We hope you enjoy the reviews we post. Please do feel free to comment and share. Thanks!
If you enjoyed this video, please do leave a comment in the box! By the way you can watch our latest video on Cunard here: ruclips.net/video/VwicqlGFqOo/видео.htmlsi=O9suMAuSuN05_KMM
I'm glad to hear people still like to dress up on the "informal" nights. Having booked my first post-pandemic cruise (on QM2 in July), I was disappointed to see that the Cunard dress code had been relaxed yet again, for I always enjoyed not just wearing a dinner suit on the formal nights but having the opportunity to give my jackets and ties an outing on the other nights.
Yes, even on informal nights people were very much dressing up. You will certainly not look out of place if you do so!
I wear jacket and tie every night in the Britannia Restaurant. Why not?
Indeed, a lot of people do.... I did!
I’ve booked a crossing for next summer. I have absolutely no intention of wearing formal gear at any time on the ship. I only ever wear a tie at weddings and funerals. I guess I’ll be eating in the buffet on Gala Night.
@egpx the buffet serves great food!
This is it. This is what I think of as "ship." What was very interesting is you showed the lifestyle onboard first and the music lounges. In fact, much of what you showed was lounges and restaurants. In most videos there is a focus on food first and staterooms. Lounges may or may not be shown. And do you still here the "standards" and jazz on the ship and do people ballroom dance? Apparently so. On so many ships people are singing "Sweet Caroline" with the obligatory "bah, bah, bah" and "so good, so good, so good" that it almost seems like an athem. Not sure if this is done on the QM2 or not but wouldn't miss it if it were. Food looked wonderful. Great to see a library and planetarium and for me not even the staterooms looked "dated." They just looked right for the style of the ship. The hidden areas were interesting but most interesting was how you go to them. Thank you.
Hi, many thanks for your kind comments. I try, as much as possible, to show real life and, atmosphere aboard, so people can view it as it is.
I worked 2 contracts for Cunard on the QM2 on loan from Princess Cruises. I loved it! It was such a different cruise experience from a North American line. The formality, the tradition, the British heritage, the royalty. Very special and it was a priviledge to work on her. A true ocean liner, a cruise ship flat out in bursts could maybe hit 30 knots. The QM2 could sail all day at 30 and in sea trials broke 37.
Thanks so much for your comments, great to hear your recollections. Yes, it must be very different working for Cunard compared to Princess. You can probably water ski at 37 knots... Imagine that behind the QM2!
@@ritzytravelguide Love your videos. As a Canadian, long live the King!
Thanks very much!
How do you get to work on the ship?
all ships must be better than the princess cruise ships
I would much rather travel on an elegant cruise ship than one full of glitz and glamour and screaming children.
I am planning, sometime in the next 2-5 years, to travel from Montreal to England aboard one of the Queens.
Thank you so much for showing the Britannia class travelling, whilst so many RUclipsrs only show first class accommodation.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Hi Jon, lovely to hear from you. I'm sure your dream will come true. In 5 years you'll make that trip over from Montreal!
By the way, in case you didn't spot it on our channel playlist, we also have videos covering our recent cruise on the Queen Elizabeth.
You can watch that here:
ruclips.net/video/sPYtWWc89H4/видео.html
@@ritzytravelguide Thanks. I'll give it a go.
BTW, I subscribed. :)
Jon
@JonTanOsb Thanks for subscribing!
Going on the 400th crossing from NY this August. Thrilled!
Did I read that right, 400?!
Was on the QM2 last week , my first ever cruise. I loved the formality, my sister dressed to the nines every night (there’s not much opportunity at home). Of course we didn’t have to dress up. I missed all of the afternoon tea opportunities as I was in the Atlantic card room playing bridge and to be honest I never entered it through the toilet area always the lobby on the other side. The serenity and service of this cruise was fabulous ( to be honest I don’t fancy getting off every day to sightsee) I would recommend it to anyone
Hi there, many thanks for your comments. It's always great to hear people's lovely stories. The QM2 is indeed a very special experience!
We have a new video on the Queen Elizabeth, coming out next week. Keep a look out for that... you'll be able to detect some differences between the 2 ships!
I love Cunard because of the timeless elegance and the chance to dress up because we never get to do that at home. I would like to cruise on the QM2 but fare prices in Oz are really expensive. We've done a few Australian cruises on Queen Elizabeth and loved them. Thanks for the excellent tour.
Hi Joan, yes I see that Elizabeth is often in Australia.... we'll be sailing on her this October, but that's in the Mediterranean, from Barcelona. Elizabeth is such a beautiful ship...bit smaller than QM2, but in a way I prefer that, as the layout is less chaotic!!
The queen Mary 2 is not a cruise ship it’s an ocean liner
That's right. The only one in the world. I wonder if they'll ever build another one.@@Jay-oj4hj
I AGREE....it is a once in a life-time experience
It is...and increasingly Cunard is offering some really good deals on price. It will give more people a chance to enjoy this fabulous ship
Except that now I've got the dresses for the gala nights, I'm making it a twice-in-a-lifetime experience. At least. :-D
@@catrinlewis939 🤣 Quite right!!
Thank you for your wonderful review. Having been a previous passenger on the QM2 Transatlantic, I can attest to its superiority as the most refined means of travel. The service is impeccable, yet approachable and accommodating. A memorable experience.
Thanks so much for your lovely comments on the video and review, that is much appreciated!
Queen Mary 2 is a elegant classy timeless beauty! Love the beautiful wood paneling, Wedgwood china and 1930’s Art Deco styling touches! Glad to see people dressing up for dinner! I personally do not like so many of the new modern cruise ships. Cold ,sterile unappealing styling. They look like shopping malls from the 1980’s and 1990’s ?!?! Tacky!! Cunard has the right look and ambiance. I’m also glad to see that you gave the ship such a positive review. I also agree that so many of the videos on RUclips are WAY TOO overly critical and picky. Ships are out at sea in incredibly harsh weather , so of course you are going to see a little bit of rust here and there !?!? Duh !🙄 but some people just feel they have to be overly critical to make their videos relevant 🤷😒 anyway thank you for the positive and wonderful video!!👍. MikeW
Many thanks for your comments Michael. She is indeed a beauty! I always try to be as objective and fair as possible when doing reviews; and so this really is my honest opinion and conclusions. On other cruises I have been far more critical. But with the QM2 we had very little to be critical about. The experience was excellent. Cunard is now pricing its cruises very competitively, and doing it's best to remain solvent. Changes have to be made, to stay in business in today's world, but I think they have adapted well and kept the essence of what Cunard is supposed to be. We are booked on a variety of cruises this year, to be able to compare and contrast. Including Princess, MSC (for a total contrast!) HAL, and in autumn, a trip on the Queen Elizabeth.
Luxury The Q M 2 ??? A Holiday Inn , has more luxury .
I have been watching this ship when she was built, amazingly, she looks still in good conditions!
@Shipspotting_Vietnam and the QM2 just had a makeover a few months ago, so looking absolutely tip top!
Oh, I see! I leave love the bow of this ship, watching her all the time on RUclips! I hope i can see her once day here in Vietnam!@@ritzytravelguide
This is actually one of the more usefull reviews, very nicely done, thank you!
Thank you very much!
If you want a ship that is elegant and understated, not into thrill rides for adults or kiddies, allows people to dress as responsible adults.....QM2 is for you. 5000 passenger amusement park she is not. On crossings the Insight lectures are fascinating - Cunard hires people who are/were at the zeniths of their careers to speak to you. There are no hard sells on this ship either. - no one from the spa in your face trying to get you to book treatments, no one from the bars trying to sell you drink packages, there is no nagging like there is on the other lines. Formal nights are such a treat. People really do act differently when they are dressed to the nines.
I 💯 agree with you on these observations, formal nights are very charming! It's a welcome change not to have anyone trying to upsell you something! Our next cruise assignment is on MSC Virtuosa, in 2 weeks time, and it could well be the complete opposite!
You are reminiscent of John Mills, such a marvellous and thorough tour, no raucous music, banging drums, you could teach the TV documentaries a thing or three, thank you, such a treat...take care
That's so kind of you... many thanks indeed for your comments.
I have just come across your guides, they are truly wonderful, I am now taking a peek at the coronation video, I was on P and O Aurora at the same time, be interesting to see how your sailing compares to mine, I adore the Aurora, however its not as great as it once was, loads of cutting corners, I really loathe that Carnival has taken many lines over, favour the traditional, was better when Lord Stirling was at the helm, the Aurora is P and O best ship, I have now become a great admirer of your guides, thank you once again, the best in depth guide I have seen...take care ....Linda@@ritzytravelguide
@@lindaridd4393 Hi Linda, that is so kind of you, many thanks indeed. Aurora is one ship we have not been on, so interested to hear your thoughts. We have been on a couple of P&O Cruises this year, and can agree that they are very definitely cutting cost. I think across the cruise industry as a whole Covid had a huge impact. The era of cruising that we all remember has gone, and that we must all adjust to the way that the cruise lines now operate. On the big upside there are now more cruise companies opening up shop than ever before... which can only be good news! We now have an infinite variety of cruise choices.... and the fun of investigating which one is best for all of us 🙂
I have watched the coronation sailing much better than on Aurora, no fireworks, had a coronation lunch with a massive cake, no ice sculptures, the coronation was shown live in the theatre, area in the atrium where there was the background to Westminster Abbey, thrones and crowns, where photos could be taken, all this on the Baltic, massive admirer now, looking forward to watching many more....Linda@@ritzytravelguide
Interesting comparison. Thanks a lot. We have more Cunard adventures coming up soon on our channel, as we'll be on the Queen Elizabeth this October, on a Mediterranean Cruise, so will be filming lots!
I'm not really a "cruiser," but I've been considering a transatlantic crossing on this ship... this video was very helpful, thank you!
Thanks for your comment, glad you found it helpful. If you're considering a northern Atlantic crossing (as opposed to a more southerly one which typically go via Portugal and the Azores)... then QM2 is by far the smoothest, and most enjoyable option
@@ritzytravelguide Indeed, I am considering the northern Atlantic, perhaps even for the extra bit to Hamburg. It would be a great excuse to visit the city 🙂
Wonderful review and Great Video! Thanks for posting!
Thank you so much!
Love your vids. Really informative.
Thank you!
Your presentation is highly interesting to watch. Thank you very much and take care. 😊
Many thanks!
Such a wonderful, silly but entertaining, and useful review! I love the QM2 and would love to sail on her some day, and wouldn’t mind seeing you aboard! Thanks for a very enjoyable half hour.
Thanks very much for your comments. One day you'll get to sail on the QM2 and you'll have an experience to treasure!
Fun to see this when a person I knew in the past was working in there and told me about her work. Now I know more about place she was working in the past. Looks amazing.
That's a lovely story! Now you can imagine. The ship really is beautiful
Churchill’s is used multiple times everyday. The brush is to clear the ash away. It’s very popular in the evening after Dinner. I’m back on board in 3 weeks and I shall frequent that room multiple times no doubt. Nice video btw. Glad you enjoyed! 💖
Many thanks indeed! Have a great trip
Just subscribed. Thanks alot for all the great info 👍
Great to have you with us!
Very refined. Once in a lifetime experience. ❤
It really is a life experience 🙂
your music choice and stylish video made me feel delighted! your funny too
Thank you very much 🙂
I am on a back to back crossing in September on QM2 and I can't wait. Been onboard several times and always relish in the dressing in the evening. As noted, not just on Formal nights. A truly relaxing and recharging time onboard.
Wow, 2 back to back crossings! Well done...not sure I have the stamina to do that! I wonder how many others are back to backing with you.
This was a great video. We just booked a Norwegian Fjords cruise on the QM2. We were hesitant at first based on the reviews we read on "Cruise Critic." The ship looks beautiful. Thank you for posting.
Hi. The QM2 has an absolute timeless elegance, you will have an amazing voyage to remember!
Thank You! It has been almost 45 years when this 20-year-old sailed transatlantic on the QE2. ====@@ritzytravelguide
An excellent insight to the QM2 very interesting and yes, now is the time I think, to book a cabin ! Thanks for the video ....
You're very welcome 🙂. Glad you enjoyed it. There's very few ships left in the world, that operate like those in Cunard. Any of them would put a smile on your face. You might even try the new Queen Anne, once she is launched in 2024
@@ritzytravelguide ...I wander around You Tube and just occasionally , I find something really worth watching and such has proved to be the case this evening...thank you !
That's very kind of you to say, and much appreciated!
I love your presentation style, am definitely subscribing
That's very kind of you to say, thank you so much 🙂
Thank you sir for this excellent guide of the iconic Queen Many II Ocean Liner.
This is a wonderful video presentation.
I subscribed from Washington DC !
Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
I would love the dressing up side of being on this ship ❤❤ I love getting all fancy ❤
If you like to dress up... it's 's exactly the right ship!!
Charming and informative review, thank you.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching
Speechless! Much respect to all the workers🎉 Pamela in USA
The QM2 is gorgeous. Still one of our favourites
Hi - The "paintbrush" in Churchill's cigar room is merely to gently brush the ash from the ash trays when they need emptying, before returning them to the tables for re-use, great video enjoyed the detail, I have subscribed, interested to see your future travels, tried many cruise lines over the years (including Cunard), however the best experience for me has to be Silversea.......
Many thanks for your reply, and kind comments, much appreciated! Thanks for clarifying about the paintbrush, that makes sense. Silversea does often get very glowing feed back. We also like the offering from Oceana and Regent Seven Seas.
Yup, came here to say that. 😊
Thanks
That's not correct.
The brush and glass tray, is for brushing the cigar, if it has "plume", prior to smoking.
Plume is a light powdery substance that can occur on cigars, when they have reached their maturity, and are optimal for smoking.
The glass tray is not an ashtray.
Myself and my daughter are on the 1st September mini cruise and really enjoyed the review as it gave us a good insight to the ship. Thanks x
Have a great time! Where is the mini cruise going to?
@@ritzytravelguide we are traveling to le havre then back to Southampton It's my daughter's 40th birthday so we are hoping to have a fantastic time on the ship.
That's a lovely taster cruise aboard. You'll like it so much, you'll want to do it again
We have always loved the Q Mary II
And like always enjoyed the classic style and the English costumes 🙏
Yes indeed
Thanks for all the great info. I'm trying to talk my mother into crossing the Atlantic in style.🤞
Good luck! QM2 is the world's only surviving Ocean Liner (as opposed to cruise ship) so it would be the most stable, and least susceptible to rough weather conditions.
@ritzytravelguide
Just been over to the website and it looks like next yr is already sold out !
@@ajalvin2012 for all the transatlantic sailings ?
I'm just off the boat at Southampton took my 16 year old daughter and for our first cruise I got to say we both loved it everyone was so nice and helpful....wished I seen your video before we went
Hi Gerard, so glad you enjoyed it! You might be so smitten, you buy another cruise in quick succession!
The QM2 is my favourite ship. I love dressing up every night and the afternoon tea dances are amazing. Food was great and the atmosphere was so elegant so completely different from the big cruise ships. We had a similar experience on the Queen Victoria and I am looking forward to trying the Queen Anne.
Queen Anne should be fascinating. Have you booked it?
@@ritzytravelguide We've just booked it for the Norwegian Fjords next June! Had our first ever cruise to Alaska from Vancouver on the QE last month - wonderful experience.
Best of the best presentation among the cruise ships' ones
Thank you!
Very interesting.
Thanks!
Love your video. We went on QM2 around 10 years ago and loved it. I thought it might have lost it's timeless uniqueness and character but it does not seem to have done. I know the layout can be a bit odd. We somehow missed the outside lift. Maybe we sould go back again. What saddens me, I get the feeling that this might well be the last ever true ocean liner and if so what a sad day for cruising.
Many thanks for your kind comments. Totally agree it would be such a shame if the QM2 is the last lady of an era of true ocean liners. Perhaps a final voyage aboard her, for you, is calling 🙂
This looks sweet I'm 35 and would enjoy this old fashioned and slower paced journey
I think many people would!... and your age range really doesn't detract from the enjoyment at all. We spoke to several younger people, in their 20s and 30s, who were having an amazing time
Everything I want to do on Cunard’s luxury QM2
3:20 Ballroom ( Now days they call it a Dance room)
3:52 Afternoon tea
5:55 Britannia restaurant
6:35 Chart Lounge (Lounges on passenger ships are called cafes)
7:42 Back in the Britannia dining room
10:38 Departure party
11:09 Indoor pool
12:16 Golden Lion Cafe
13:00 Nightclub G32
13:32 Royal court thether
13:39 Four D’S ballroom
14:44 Kings court buffet
20:42 Carithia buffet and lounge
My cruise is 8 days
PS: I’m going to Southampton so I might meet you at the end of the cruise!
That sounds like most of it!!
Great tour….
Booked on QM2 Oct. 6 Canada-New England and continuing transatlantic to Hamburg, Germany.
That's a great itinerary!
Excited to cruise and film this one in December - I've heard SUCH positive things about this ship, and very keen to see if she lives up to my expectations!
I'm sure you'll have a great time Fraser.... after all your MSC and Costa 'fun and games' the past few months ... it will be a welcome change to art deco style of cruising from yesteryear!! We, thoroughly enjoyed QM2.... so much so, we are booked on Queen Elizabeth this October
hello are you doing the 15th december crosing southanpton to new york?
we just booked recently so maybe see you on board!
“No, no, that’s not edible” 23:14 🤣
Shouldn't have eaten that lemon rind 😂
Oh dear such a short voyage and so many food choices. I spent 7 weeks or so on P&Os Aurora and never tired of their offerings. Not quite QM2 but still excellent.
Hi, We have yet to try out the Aurora, (or Arcadia)... would you recommend it? Sounds positive from your comments above
Jolly good review, thanks for that. Just booked on the Queen Elizabeth from Vancouver to LA later this year so looking forward to the Cunard experience. It’s been a bucket list thing for 50 odd years - I made an Airfix model of the QE2 as a child. The amazing thing about the Queen Mary is that the price is comparable to a premium economy BA flight from London to the west coast, so if this cruise goes well hopefully will do a transatlantic one later. Thanks for sharing your trip!
Hi Nick, many thanks for your message. You are absolutely right, that if you can find a deal it can be almost the same price to cruise, as to fly. Certainly in more style! Have a great trip with Elizabeth!
We just came off a 10-day Alaska cruise, our third on the QE and first in Queens Grill. On this ship and the Queen Mary 2 we have previously been in Britannia, Princess Grill and the Britannia Club (on QM2 only). No matter what restaurant class we have been in we enjoyed it. I can't say which ship I prefer, the QM2 or QE, but for cruises I prefer the QE. The QM2 is best enjoyed on an Atlantic crossing. I hope you enjoy the Cunard experience.
I think this review is very accurate. We’re diamond passengers and have travelled extensively on all three ships in different categories. The layout of the Mary is poor whereas the QV and QE the grills quests have a separate sun deck, lounge and sun terrace for eating at the top of the ship, all together.
On the Mary the dance floor is at the rear the grill’s restaurant is or was deck 7 more mid ship and the sunbathing deck separate again.
Hi Bill, I love your videos and unbiased commentary. My take on MSC is that if you were a young family with three kids this ship offers the mother no cooking and cleaning and therefor a real holiday for her. Plenty for the kids to do and it seems really good food. I am impressed realy as a lot more families can now afford all of that. They want a parking meter tied to those deck chairs so that everyone can get a fair go
Thanks indeed, yes a parking meter would be handy!!!
THANK YOU very much for your excellent review of QM2. I am booked on the ship for a Transatlantic crossing - Oct 2024 Southampton-NYC-Southampton - 15 days at sea and am looking forward to it!! I am also booked for Queen Victoria for 4 nights in Jan 24 Southampton-Hamburg. Both are w/Balcony staterooms!!! xx
Wow, very exciting for you! That's 2 amazing adventures in 2024. So much to look forward to, and plan. That's living life to the full.... well done you!! Let us know how they go!
@@ritzytravelguide Ah thanks!!! Very exciting!!!I will be doing vlogs forth both voyages xx
Remember to give us the links, we'd love to see them!
@@ritzytravelguide Absolutely!!! xx
Thank you so much for posting this most enjoyable video! I have not sailed the QM2 yet... I honestly feared that she was just a slightly glorified average cruise ship ( you know, tacky Las Vegas like)
I am glad to see the traditional elegance and style is very much alive and celebrated, including the higher class clientel. Thank you.
Greg T, California
Many thanks for your comments, glad you enjoyed the video! Together with a handful of the other lines, Cunard has probably one of the most traditional cruising styles!
Your a few years late for the QE2
@@howardhdavidson you are correct. I corrected my typo:)
main entry to the card room is on the other side
Hi!
Having done four QM2 Transatlantics I appreciated this video a good deal.
Decor wise don't expect Cunard to go away from the Art Deco look - it is part of their DNA.
With regard to some of the nooks and crannies, the best way to navigate QM2 (based on experience) is to remember that many of the things you noted are right off of Staircase/Elevator Bank A. I had noted the scenic elevators quickly while doing my morning laps on the wraparound Promenade Deck and they give easy access to a lot of great locations. As to which decks have the most goodies it would be decks 3, 2 and 7 in order.
Cunard has always been VERY profitable but just like everyone else in the industry they are having to reload the coffers after the shutdowns (really businesses forced to shut down for over a year like these were should have had some type of financial recompense). QM2 is currently scheduled to dry dock for a refit in late October.
Hi, many thanks for your comments. We really like the art deco feel of Cunard, and hope it very much stays in their DNA. Hopefully Queen Anne will not stray too far away from this.
I've booked a transatlantic voyage on her next summer. I'm glad to hear she may be getting a refit later this fall. I've heard she's getting a bit worn, and it's good to hear they are going to revitalize her a bit.
@@ajs11201 it will be interesting to see what they do, and if it goes beyond standard types of maintenance
@@ritzytravelguide Yes, we'll find out soon enough if the maintenance will be limited to infrastructure or if visible touch-ups are planned.
@@ajs11201 Tips for Travelers addressed and refuted the "worn" statements. She is getting the refit she was scheduled to get in 2020 but the shutdowns interfered. Alas the total loss of income during the shutdowns caused a lot of lines to have to delay refits.
subscribed...wish you the best for your channel...hope to see you on a cruise sometime...we are on Cunard Queen Elizabeth October 23 out of Barcelona....cheers
Hi there, many thanks for your kind words. You are on the QE the week exactly after us! We're almost tempted to extend by 7 days, as the itinerary is great... but we have to be in Asia, end of October. May see you as we come off! Have a great cruise!
I have to admit that the introduction almost turned me off because of all of the gray heads I was seeing. 😅 . I kept watching and thought hmmm...maybe this is the ship for me. I want to take a world cruise 🛳 BUT RELAX. I do not need an enormous amount of onboard things to do. I'm looking into it. Thanks for the video.
You're welcome! The Cunard ships are very good 'all rounders', in terms of their offering, activities and restaurants.If you're looking for some alternatives for the short list, you might also consider : Oceania, Radisson (though quite pricey) or the later Celebrity Edge Class ships
The Queen’s room is Queen Mary 2’s main ballroom and Night Club G32 is the club of the ship that is named after her hull! I really like how she’s a luxury ocean liner because of her speed and a luxury cruise ship because of the fun aboard the ship. The main reason why it’s a luxury cruise ship is because of the way the cruise line built her
I hope you cover the Grilles!
We have in 2 of the other videos. Please check out our playlist 😊
Note: We will be aboard the Cunard Queen Elizabeth in October 2023. Remember to subscribe to our channel to see those videos when they come out..... in the meantime, after you watch this video....we have another about the QM2 ... it is on the very special Coronation Cruise. You can watch that here: ruclips.net/video/S0Kn0WYWBX4/видео.html
When I saw you had to walk through the restrooms to get to the card room I thought "that's actually not that weird for an older vessel" then I saw QM2 was launched in 2003'ish. 🤔
That buffet looked fantastic though and so calm.
It's a very relaxed and calm buffet, compared to a lot of others!
It's a very relaxed and calm buffet, compared to a lot of others!
The normal entrance to the room is on the port side - restrooms are on the starboard side.
I would love to go
Some days they do advertise late availability, at crazy low prices.... one day it may be you 🙂
QM2 ❤ schönstes Schiff/Liner der Welt!!!
Quite possibly!
My husband and I quite enjoy your cruise videos and have viewed many interesting vids. As a request, would you please do reviews on accessibility. We realise you are young, fit and agile and such issues related to mobility is not front of mind. But for those of us, young and older, who are dependent upon easy access, detailed info could be a game changer. Thank you!
Hi there, that's a very good idea. Let me see what I can do for future videos 🙂
We sailed QM2 back in 2004 when she was brand new, my first on a true OCEAN LINER. It was a delightful experience.
It was an 8 day cruise to the Caribbean from New York City.
I had no complaints at all,and I know now the ship has been remastered/refurbished as she is called
That would have been fabulous to travel with her when new. I'm sure the atmosphere would have been fantastic. QM2 is going into dry dock later this year. Cunard is being a little secretive on exactly what is being upgraded /changed. It will be fascinating to see what is done to the ship, and how far reaching a makeover is attempted. Whilst the main areas are still looking fantastic, the cabins could do with a bit of modernising, and adding infrastructure, such as Starlink around the ship, would keep her in touch with competitors
You did not mention the most amazing lectures available every day!!!!!!!!!
Hi Rex, you are absolutely correct, I should have done! They are excellent. An ommission on my part.
A fair review, in particular your comments on the inability to get from one location to another without a detour. No discussion of the staff I notice; maybe there has been some improvement in attitude over the last 3 or 4 years. Pleased to hear Captain Hashmi is still going strong; he took me to Cape town some years back on Queen Elizabeth.
Thanks for your comments. Yes,
Captain Hashmi is still very much there, and always very personable.
Thank you for the detailed video as we just booked for the first time ever on Queen Mary 2. When you are outside the smoking lounge in the hallway is there an odor of smoke ? I would like to know because our room is nearby and I have Asthma.
Hi, are you referring to the Churchill Lounge? If so, then no. You can't smell smoking outside. Only once you go in!
@@ritzytravelguide Thank you, yes I was asking if the smell lingers outside of the Churchill Lounge into the hallway. Now I feel better that I can enjoy our room.
i prefer informal, but it does look a ton of fun.
Hi there, the QM2 is surprisingly more lively and active than people think it would be! One of the better nigh clubs at sea, and live bands at almost every bar and venue. The list of included features on Cunard is a lot longer than other cruise lines!
I would dearly love to do a QM2 cruise but I’m not sure about the formality thing. I like the neat casual attire of most cruise ships.
Hi, Cunard is quite formal. Their dress code is reasonably strict if you go to the smart sections of the ship!
The formality only really kicks in after 6pm - and even then you don't have to bother at all with it if you're not planning to go into the 'dressy' areas e.g. Brittania Restaurant, Commodore Lounge etc. We're just off the QE - our first ever cruise - and I was a bit worried about it as we chose Club Balcony, but even in our restaurant smart casual was ok in the evenings - my husband was delighted not to have to wear a tie!
Glad you had a great time 🙂
Afternoon tea was one of the traditions that would make me want to sail this ship. After seeing the production and transformation to some sort of zoo carnival, I'll look elsewhere.
If you're looking for an alternative cruise line that gives a good afternoon tea, you could consider: Oceana, Holland America or Silversea. Theirs are normally good. Virgin also does a good one, though that attracts an additional fee
Couldn't agree more, the circus of the waiters walking in to Strauss is just too much for anyone with half a brain
I would definitely book this one❤ 1:27
Hi! Yes the Queen Mary 2 is so photogenic! The Champagne Bar, Chart Room, Grand Foyer, Queens Room, Commodore Lounge, Britannia Dining Room .... all make for fantastic backdrops 😊
I'm surprised you didn't try a Balcony Club cabin - on the Queen Elizabeth recently we enjoyed the Brittania Club dining room, always the same seats and a much better menu than you show here (4 choices for each course except the soup and salad when there were 2 choices). Bigger verandahs too plus a greater on board spending allowance - the 600 dollars we had covered our gratuities, wifi and coffees and wine each day so we didn't spend any extra!
That's a good tip!
Best in the world....QM2...
A timeless, elegant quality
FYI... you mentioned that the QM2 has the Golden Lion Pub... in my Queen Elizabeth June 2023, they also had this Golden Lion Pub and I went to it at least 2X at lunch time to have the "Fish & Chips (ie. French Fries) but looking at the menu you presented, I'm going to be trying other things in my future Jan. cruises (2).... I'm enjoying your videos immensely, hope we meet someday.
Hi Silvia, yes all the Cunard ships have the Golden Lion Pub. It's a tradition of theirs, and will be on the new Queen Anne too. On my recent cruise I met with the Fleet Executive Chef, and he confirmed the Golden Lion is going to be reinventing itself, just a little. This means updated menus, and a new twist to them. The changes will then be rolled out, fleet wide.
The evening menu in the pubs is quite different from lunch, and goes a little more up market, almost a little bistro, in style.
I look forward to meeting you on a future cruise!
I imagine the paintbrush in the cigar room is to clean out the bowl of your pipe.
I could be wrong, however, as I do not smoke. But my dad smoked cigarettes, cigars and a pipe. Not all at the same time, er, era.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
What they don't tell you is that the top suite have a smoking area below the massive balcony
It is one of my dreams to be on board to Queen Mary 2 and vlog my experience there but...
I am aware that it is expensive so it will remain as a dream.
On occasion you can get an absolute bargain being advertised.... it might happen!
Thank you for helping me make a decision and that’s not to travel on the QM2.
Righty ho!
Loved this video again. I plan to sail on Queen Victoria in September and comparing your videos, she (or Elizabeth) seems to be even more beautiful then the QM2. Maybe because I love the Titanic-styled Victorian/Edwardian decor of Victoria/Elizabeth more?! But maybe it's the videos? What would you say? 🙋♂️
Hi, you've asked a really tough question there, it's like picking between your two favourite children!
The QE and QV are almost identical, so let's combine those. Our thoughts :
My wife: likes all of them, but feels the smaller size of QE makes it easier to get around and more personal.
Myself: again I like all, but if pushed I'd choose the QM. For a variety of reasons : 1. It just feels a tad more majestic. The bigger size gives a greater feeling of space 2. The Queens Room does not feel like a corridor compared to QE/QV, where it's more of a through passage. 3. I prefer the nightclub on the QM2. 4. The buffet on QM2 has been modernised. 5. The Carinthia Lounge is better on the QM2. 6. QM2 is a unique design.
But the Grills are better on the QE/QV. They have their own deck, and better view, with nice courtyard
You could of course choose the new Queen Anne!
Hope this helps!
@@ritzytravelguide Queen Anne I am totally out! 😅 They can keep this contemporary nightmare for someone else... 🤭
THANK YOU for this again quick answer with so many informations. You are great. Very kind from you! A happy new year to you and your family! 🤗🙋♂️
This looks divine 😍 I like the old world charm and understated elegance. The piano lounge Corinthian room appeals to me as well. To be honest, I am thinking of booking an inside cabin for a Dec transatlantic crossing as the price is fantastic $1900 cdn (pls taxes, surcharges and gratuities). 🤗
The Old world charm is the real magic of Cunard! Very few cruise lines these days have this feel. We've travelled Inside with Cunard on a couple of occasions, and been very happy!
@ritzytravelguide Friends of mine - Aussies working in NY back in 2008 - when their contract was finished they chose to do NY to Sydney in a suite. They are the ones I credit with planting the seed in my head to one day try Cunard 🤗 It reminds me of the glamour of Now Vayager w Bette Davis and Claude Rains 🛳🛟
The brush in the cigar lounge is for cleaning away the ashes in the ash trays.
Thanks!
You showed the covered swimming pool, which was my favorite when I'd been in the QM2, however you don't show the Caribbean (live) music band which I loved, and when I got in the other two (QVictoria & QElizabeth) with no covered pool, I longed for this.
Hi there. I have a lot more coverage of our time aboard the QM2 in our companion video 😊 Have you seen our other QM2 video? You can see it here :
ruclips.net/video/S0Kn0WYWBX4/видео.html
You light the paintbrush, and use the burning paintbrush to light your cigar. Simple.
😁
On the formal nights, are normal lounge suits with a tie acceptable?We're going Princess Grill and to be honest I hate dressing up - but I don't want to get told off!
Hi, yes normal lounge suits are acceptable. I would say approximately half will dress in tuxedos and dinner jackets, on formal night, with others using lounge suits. Dress code is slowly relaxing on Cunard. Some onboard will not dress up at all, and restrict themselves to the buffet!
@@ritzytravelguide thank you
So if, say, you're booked for the Princess Grill, can you still eat in the Britannia dining room, perhaps to hook up with friends?
Yes, but few do!
Just in case anyone is interested, the music played as the waiters enter with tea is Joann Strauss' (senior) "Radetzky March." If one is doing the Crossing, go from the UK to the US, not the other way round. The day is 25 hours when traveling from the UK because of the International Date Line and only 23 hours when traveling from the US. There are "fewer" pools, not "less." "Less" is for uncountable items, such as the amount of my love for your channel, with "fewer" for countable items, such as the number of pools (and, yes, every grocery store quick line sign is wrong, they should be "10 Items or Fewer."). When I took QM2, what I learned, I want Cunard in charge of Heaven when I get there as they really know how to run things. It was a perfect trip. I played bridge in the Atlantic Room nearly every afternoon and the Churchill Room was used for meetings of the Friends of Bill every day.
Hi, many thanks for your comments. Yes, a TA going East to West is very much a better way. Extra hour each day, really helps with jet lag on arrival
Cannot wait to go in November!
Fabulous. Which itinerary are you doing?
@@ritzytravelguide Caribbean cruise. We booked a sheltered balcony.
Caribbean cruise.
@@corinneposluszny1513 Fantastic... have a fab cruise!
Thank you!
Yes I love Cunard spent 23 nights on queen victoria and 17 on queen Elizabeth I love to dress up
We're aboard Queen Elizabeth this October. Looking forward to it
My wife doesn't know how to swim... But the atmosphere should convince her (dance, tea + cookies).
That's 3 great reasons to convince her! Also add in: elegant silver service, and being able to switch off for a while, and allow yourself to be transported back to the 1920s.... to temporarily forget the stressful world we currently live in!
@ritzytravelguide She just reminded me how stressful it was in 1912... But she promised she'll have a look at your video.
@@paulbizard3493 Ha, quick wit from her!
Is there a buffet for casual dining.?
Hi, yes indeed there is a buffet on the QM2, it's called the King's Court. I made a video on it. You'll find it in our QM2 playlist here:
QM2 : Cunard Queen Mary 2: ruclips.net/p/PLU_rhQVNCTvSYlmo3VmYk8_LzkAb6rbEK
Had the pleasure of sailing on this ocean liner QM2 back in 2018. Incredible experience. Did Southampton to NYC. Staff brilliant, ship elegant, food amazing. These sailing block of flats with water slides are not for me
🤣 I like your description!
Royal blood cruise ship
Not heard it called that before!
I think they use the paint brush to sweep ashes off the tables. Kind of like a crumber.
The brushes are very cute.... just look a bit strange!
What are other lines like? I've only ever been on Cunard! :)
If you like Cunard, also try : Holland America, Oceania, Celebrity Edge Class... and more pricey would be Regent Seven Seas
You don’t mention that you constantly pay for everything normally included on other ships I.e. drinks, chocolate treats ... and all extras are very pricey
You refer to the Queen's Room and Britannia restaurant as "enigmatic" which means mysterious but what is mysterious about these spaces - a better word would be iconic (or perhaps elegant?)
I'll settle for iconic!
I hope Cunard holds the line against the pull towards baser, less refined business models. It's what holds them apart.
Hi, that is a very perceptive comment indeed. I am hoping the same. Let's see how the new Queen Anne is, when launched
Is there steerage on the QM2 like the Titanic? I think that would be much more of a good time than being around mostly old, wannabe rich people the whole time. It's probably the most crowded between the hours of 6:00am and 8:00pm. Bedtime at 8:30-9:00pm.
I don't drink alcohol because of certain medications that i take.. Instead of champagne or wine, would i be out of luck at dinner, if i asked for sparkling (cold) apple cider?
Hi, they serve a full range of drinks at dinner. So as long as the bar stocks it, they are permitted to serve it to you!
What's your recommendation for lunch on embarkation day?
Hi, the Britannia Room will often be closed for lunch on embarkation day, ditto the Queens and Princes Grill (if you have access to those) The buffet in Kings Court could be your only option!
@@ritzytravelguide thanks. Is the lions pub open? I'm not a buffet person!!
Can't be sure if the Golden Lion is open on embarkation day. If it is, and you can get a seat, then grab it. Because it may be the only chance you get for the rest of the cruise...it is unbelievably popular for lunch. And normally packed out. Especially on sea days. The other option is Carinthia Lounge. Even though it's a 'light buffet', it's a really nice tapas/Mediterranean style offering, in a nice setting. We often found ourselves in the Carinthia Lounge, and really liked it. I have a dedicated video feature on the Carinthia, coming out this week.
@@bstanz5266 Yes
@@bstanz5266 I *think* the Lion's Pub may be open on embarkation day, and your best bet is to go there on that day if they are. If not, your next best choice is the very next day after embarkation since many of the other passengers haven't yet discovered the pub serves lunch.