The Golden Age of Cruising Video can be seen here: ruclips.net/video/Fl6M9t21sQY/видео.htmlsi=KFXmpGk1qCzyH3ig If you enjoyed this video, please do drop a comment in the box! By the way you can watch our latest video on Cunard here : ruclips.net/video/VwicqlGFqOo/видео.html
@@ritzytravelguide Could you possibly incorporate some vintage videos if possible into other videos where appropriate? It's so fascinating to see what it was like in times gone by. I hope our tipping etiquette video is coming soon! 💵
You mentioned that tea used to be served in your outside deck chair. I remember that well, enjoying it while wrapped in a heavy blanket on the QE2. The other treat was a cup of hot bouillon typically served around 10 am. It really warmed me up and when finished I comfortably resumed my morning snooze!
Excellent video sir, you are one of the best cruise presenters on social media, if not the best. We love watching them for the straight forward and truthful reviews.
Yet another masterpiece from Bill. Thanks so much for another valuable insight into what we can expect on our upcoming voyage. Your presentations are informative and entertaining which makes us look forward to what is in stall for us. We enjoyed the nostalgia included in this video and it was interesting to note that the gentlemen wore dinner jackets in the buffet back in the day. Your channel is one of our favorites and we're already looking forward to the next one.
Yes, dinner jackets in the buffet, imagine that! The food of yesteryear looked incredible. You must call up room service, and enquire if they might have be able to bring you pheasant on toast for breakfast
Congratulations!! Your BEST video yet !! And that’s saying a lot, because all your past videos have been sensational. Love your lovely wife and your sense of humour and fun conversations! A month from now, I’ll be taking my first trip on the Queen Victoria. From Florida to San Francisco via the canal, with stops in Aruba , Guatemala and Mexico. This wonderful video has helped make me even more excited about what’s about to come!! I admit I am a bit of a “ Foodie “ so that’s probably part of the reason I enjoyed this particular video so much !! 😋😉. I traveled on the Queen Mary 2 last summer transatlantic both ways , and agree with all of your comments about the food with Cunard . Room Service at Breakfast was wonderful and such a treat. Gala night in Britannia is a MUST on the nights it’s offered !! Afternoon Tea in Queens Room is a MUST !! I also LOVED the little puddings in the glass cups in Carinthia Lounge. The only place of disappointment for me was the King’s Court. While the selection of food was nice, the two times I went, it was terribly crowded , lots of almost pushing and shoving. People rudely stepping in line in front of you !?! I laughingly thought it was almost like a “ EATING FRENZY AMONGST OF POOL OF GREAT WHITE SHARKS 🦈 “ !!😂 !! After the second attempt, I never went back !!! I loved the vintage Cunard film !! Yes I would love to see more in the future. I live about a 30 minute drive from the original (1936) Queen Mary in California , And am slightly embarrassed to admit that I have visited the ship probably 30 times ( including overnight stays in the hotel cabins) . No Ghosts! Don’t believe the silly stories you’ve heard. I love being on that elegant and regal ship !!! I sit back and daydream that it’s the 1930’s and am surrounded by famous and beautiful people! Oh Look, there’s Clark Gable and Marlene Dietrich ! 😯🙂😉 You , by the way are quite dashing in your Tuxedo! And your wife’s gowns are gorgeous! So elegant and classy. They look VERY expensive! So about that old man !🥴🤷♂️The Green and Cream floral number reminds me of the Scarlet O’hara BBQ DRESS IN GONE WITH THE WIND!!! Tell your wife that admire her excellent taste!! Pack that one especially for every voyage!👍🙂. Anyway thank you again for all your hard work and dedication to this wonderful video site!! Best regards MikeW🇺🇸
Hi Mike, thank you so much for your lovely message, and kind words, it is really appreciated! You really are a Queen Mary afficionado to have visited 30 times, your knowledge must be second to none! I shall pass your compliments on to my wife about her evening wear, she will be delighted to hear! Have an amazing time on the Queen Victoria. That's a fabulous itinerary. I haven't been through the Panama canal for 10 years, but really should again soon. We did it the other way round, starting in Barbados, and then Aruba, Curaçao, Venezuela, Panama City, and then down to Chile and Peru. Happy New Year to you and the family!
I love your accent!! Just came across your channel a few hours ago, and I've watched maybe 5 years. The first video was about what flying used to be like. I was hooked! Great videos! This one made me long for excellent food! Thank you for your videos!
My dad was a waiter in first class (queens grill) in the fifties. He had a few stories about his experiences e.g. serving the Coca-Cola King and the tips he made. Always said Britannia class passengers gave him the run around and never tipped. He used to flambé steaks at the table and also crepes suzettes. I hope to experience the queens grill myself sometime in my life. I have been on several cruises but nothing like this. Seeing this video gave me an idea as to what it was like in the day - so thanks.
Sir, what a pleasure it is and am sure it will be to listen your future reviews. A credit to the cruise liners for their efforts to cater for their passengers. Beautifully selected decor, not to mention the chefs and their love for the cuisine they prepare for their diners And yourself and your wife, beautifully spoken, correct attire enticing us to board and enjoy one of these wonderful cruise ships. We thank you so much for your presentation and will most definitely prepare ourselves for one of these cruises.
Tramanto on Queen Anne is an extra: $20/head. We were on the naming cruise and absolutely loved Queen Anne. Sir Samuel's is the Verandah rebranded and absolutely fabulous
Very interesting video. I think you are a fair but tough critic 😀 A video that focused solely on the evolution of on board entertainment would also be welcome, and the Ritzy Travel Guide is the channel to make it 👍🏽
Hey Bill, yet another great video..we appreciate the time and effort that you need to put into pulling these together...! This was particularly useful for us, as we'll be travelling on Queen Anne very soon...and seeing the food is making us even more excited. Keep up the excellent work... Alison & Ian
Hi Alison and Ian, thanks so much! The new Queen Anne will be very exciting. I'm personally looking forward to spending evenings in the Bright Lights Society, as I think it will have a fascinating retro cabaret vibe to it, as well as the new Asian restaurants! Not too long to wait
I watched this while starving myself to fit into my dinner suit on Queen Mary 2 next month. I enjoyed it despite the hunger pangs it provoked. Incidentally, when I first cruised on QE2 in 2007 and 2008, dinner in the Mauretania Restaurant (the Britannia equivalent) was silver service, which gave an added feeling of luxury.
About to embark from NYC-Perth on our second half of the “Antipode” cruise (having done our first half from Dubai-Sydney in 2023). Huge fans of QM2…and loved this video…especially the vintage films. I must say with 55 days on board so far, we are in 100% agreement on your reviews. You’ll find us in all your highlighted spots: Carinthia Lounge, Golden Lion Pub and at tea whenever the strings are playing. Agree wholeheartedly with your assessments. Thank you so much for this delightful prelude to our upcoming journey. And for the speciality coffee tip…we did not know it was included in Britannia!
Hi Laura, have an amazing 2nd half of your Anntipode cruise. As its quite a few days at sea, it could be the perfect opportunity for you to create some Cruising Videos of your escapade... , and upload them to your Cruising channel? ! I'm sure you will have many a tale to share!
Considering if you want to cross the Atlantic by ship, QM2 is your only option these days (cargo ship does not count)...yes it's worth having that option of travel...even if the food was gross (which it isnt at all).
Thank you Bill for your videos they are very informative and entertaining. My wife and I are going on our very first cruise which will be on the queen Anne leaving Southampton in June so your videos are helping us get to know what to expect. Many thanks James
Great Video! Really enjoyed seeing the old footage! Making a video with old footage would be very cool! My wife and I will be going on the MSC Eurbia out of Southhampton on 9 - 16 Feb 2024. We will be doing Yatcht Club so are hoping we can avoid the excessive crowds that have been reported on MSC Eurbia cruises. Happy Cruising and keep the great vloggs coming!
You created a fabulous video. I loved the historical footage. Your humor, playfulness, and razor -sharp observations make your work a joy to watch. Thank you for your hard work.
Hi yes it's very odd, QM2 only opend the Golden Lion pub at lunch. Whereas the Queen Elizabeth is open at dinner time too, with an expanded bistro style menu. I have no idea why QM refuses to open for dining in the evening?!
@@ritzytravelguide Will you be doing some Norwegian Cruises in the time coming ? If you are popping down to a little city in south Norway ill could he local guide for you if you would like too.,
@@ritzytravelguide Ok,ill send you an mail over the weekend , but if you take the ferry in a mini cruise from Hirtshals up to Bergen, youll pass alomg on the way,and that tour can be bought separate tickets for each stop.
Hi Bill! Well presented video! I think a good part of why the buffets differ between ships might be that each Cunard ship has its own Executive Chef and you might be seeing differences in how each one runs their "shop".
Hi there, yes I think you're right. Strange thing is the Executive Chefs for the QM2 and QE are twin brothers, from the UK! . They were doing an afternoon tea presentation whilst we were onboard, and were very entertaining . I didn't get a moment to ask them why one of their buffets was so much better than the other!
Hi, I'm not aware of Cunard 'theming' or basing a cruise specifically based around Mother's Day. But I'm sure the 2 of you would enjoy it. Take some showy gowns, embrace the Afternoon Teas, Dancing (or at least watching it) in the Queens Room, an Aperitif and nibbles in the Commodore Lounge...relaxed snacks, and lunch in the Carinthia. Perfect!
This was a great video made more lovely when we spotted some familiar staff from the Queen Elizabeth! Your cruise must have been shortly after ours. We agree with a lot of the Queen Elizabeth comments here, the Vernadah felt like a very special experience and excellent value for money. We have our first experience of QM2 in August this year and we are really looking forward to the Corinthia Lounge based on this information, we probably would have passed it by otherwise.
Hi Joe, lovely to hear from you! Have a great time on QM2. The ship has recently been tweaked, upgraded and preened in dry dock so should look resplendent for your trip in August! Yes, do try the Carinthia, either for breakfast or lunch, or tea. Some great offerings to be had
The food in the buffet was very high quality, for a buffet that is. The food in the main restaurant was only so, so. That is, until I asked hubby why he was having steak every night, he said it was exceptional, so I gave it a try. He was right, like always. I don't even eat steak as a rule but it was so good, particularly with the horseradish sauce always on offer. Even on gala nights, steak was our choice.
Good morning Bill. Love the channel very informative. I have undertaken many cruises over the years however never.Cunard. I would like to ask a question. Over the years I have noticed that “formal night “ has taken a dive with lots of cruise companies choosing not to enforce the dress code. Especially on ships flying the “ Stars and Stripes “ . There is nothing more annoying when passengers have been allowed to mix in the restaurants and bars in a “relaxed attire “. Could you please inform me of the Cunard take on this.. regards.
Hi there, Cunard passengers are by and large very compliant, with the vast majority happily dressing for formal nights. Out of all the cruiselines we travel on, Cunard most closely follows dress codes
I would like to see more vintage footage!👍 I'm happy to hear that the Queen Anne will NOT have a self-serve buffet. It should keep down the cooties. lol
Great review and very fair I would say. You mention the portions are smaller on non gala nights but does that mean you potentially end up hungry? Is the menu less expansive? Love the vintage footage and would be very interested in seeing you document what it used to be like. There is a perception that the old days were far better but that isn’t always true. Look at air travel. Todays business class seats are light years ahead of what passed for first back in the day. I’d really love to see you review the Queens Grill and see if you think that it’s worth splashing out for especially on a cheaper cruise like a winter crossing on the QM2. Your most recent Cunard Cruise it looks like your traveling with your kids. It would be interesting to hear their perspective even if that means you relaying and paraphrasing their comments. PS love that background. It really seems to suite you and these videos.
Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. In reply to your various questions : 1. No we didn't ever go hungry, but did occasionally go up to the buffet right at the end of the evening, for a sneaky midnight dessert sugar fix! Also of course, you are permitted to order 2 desserts, or additional entrees in Britannia, for no additional charge. But we rarely if ever do that. Occasionally we might have a main course as an appetiser if we preferred it. 2. No, our kids weren't on either of those Cunard Cruises, they were on the Mediterranean cruise we took with MSC, which included a stop at Barcelona. Many thanks indeed for watching, we always love to hear back from people.
@@ritzytravelguide thanks for your reply. Since your travel guide to Barcelona came out recently I just associated it with the Cunard cruise. My Mistake. Looking forward yo your next video. This one really made me want to take that Transatlantic cruise on the QM2!
Lovely review, lived the archive footage. Only tiny thing I saw wrong the waiter plated the duck appetizer at 12 protine allways at six. If you review your stake your waiter repositioned your stake to 6 after he put it down, sure it didt effect the taste. Look forward to your bext.
Happy New Year Bill, to you, your lovely wife and family 🎉 I so enjoy your videos, your narration, attention to detail and the vintage footage is fascinating 😊 Im thinking of inviting my dear brother and sis in law on a Cunard cruise for our collective 60th birthdays in few years. Will give me time to save up😅 I am booked on Queen Anne in Dec tho and cannot wait! Cheers ✌🏻
Happy New Year Kate! A collective 60th celebration sounds an excellent idea! Time to save up for the Champagne bar you'll be visiting onboard together!
I was on Queen Victoria in Jan for a 4 night cruise to Hamburg BUT am really excited for my transatlantic on Queen Mary 2 - Southampton to NY and return by sea - 15 nights this coming OCtober. I have another balcony stateroom!!! Cinderella at the Ball!!!
Thanks Marc! Heritage cruising is fascinating to see... if only for a time machine... I'd be on deck in 1956, having afternoon tea in the blink of an eyelid
We will be doing a Transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2 in January 2025. My wife and I are big afternoon tea fans, so really looking forward to tea in the Queen's Room. I really like the china teapots shown on the Queen Elizabeth video, but noticed the teapots on some of the QM2 afternoon tea videos are rather plain looking metal. Are any china teapots used for Afternoon tea on the QM2? This probably sounds a bit silly, but it is a big deal to us.
Love your Videos. They make me feel treated very nicely and are also educating and fun. But for God sake how is it possible to eat that much? I am a 6ft active 26 year old man and I am absolutely shocked. The snacks alone would suffice. And you are both so thin and good looking despite your ages. Respect. Greetings from Germany.
Hi there, thanks for your message. We now have a few vintage videos on our channel. You can watch the opening episode here : ruclips.net/video/Fl6M9t21sQY/видео.html
Lovely video. Thank you. I found the food and service in Queens Grill and The Verandah excellent. But in Britannia and the Lido it's absolutely terrible.
Love these videos. Is it possible that if you don't give something a perfect score, you could identify why? Where does it fall short of a perfect score?
Hi there Scott. Great to here from you. We try not to by too harsh in our comments , as everyone's perspective is different. In respect of why we didn't give top marks, nothing major but a few minor thoughts: 1. The main dining room, the Britannia could be quite hit and miss. On non Gala nights the standards could slip. 2. The buffet, particularly on Victoria and Queen Elizabeth is falling behind the offerings on other cruise lines 3. The Golden Lion on QM2 can be practically impossible to get in to, and is only open at lunchtimes. And the menu could do with a refresh. Thankfully it is open for evenings on QE 4 General quality of offering, outside the Grills is, perhaps not what it was 5 or 10 years ago. But, all that being said, it's just minor issues, and it's the overall experience on Cunard that gives that special feeling. The ships are beautiful, and the cuisine is just fine
I can’t wait until you try Princess Grills and report back. Great humor in your videos. As always, your wife is indispensable in these vids. Without her, we wouldn’t see the gym! We’ve been on both ships in both classes (Britannia and PG) and there is a difference. PG offers good value at the right deal, if food is important to you. BYW, that was a string trio, not quartet in front of the Veranda…
Hi Bill, We will be on Celebrity Ascent on the January 14th sailing. When are you going to be on Celebrity Ascent? We would like to meet you and your wife. Cheers, Sheree & Bryon
Hi Sheree and Bryon, what a shame, we're boarding the week after you on the 21st. We'll look out for you as you come off.... hopefully with a huge smile on your face, as it will have been an amazing experience!
I have been watching all of your Cunard and QM2 videos in preparation for a September 2024 crossing. As I admire your partner’s evening gowns and plan my own formal wear, I am getting worried that I’ll freeze while you gentlemen wear jackets! Apologies for the silly question, but has she been a comfortable temperature?
Hi there, not a silly question at all! My wife didn't at any stage feel cold inside, as the rooms are kept at a fairly constant temperature, year round. We have been aboard Cunard at various seasons of the year, and my wife has been able to wear whatever he heart desired, without worrying about internal temperatures. Outside on deck though is a different matter! You'll definitely need something warmer for that, as even in September it can get cool!
You talked about sailing on Cunard ships back when Queen Elizabeth and the first Queen Mary were sailing it would be great ,and have you ever been to Long Beach, California to tour the first Queen Mary , Igot a chance it was very good tour
We will be on QE next month and I hope the food is better than last year it was underwhelming but it was the first season after covid We are on her for 10 days so will book the Verandah between the 3 gala nights thanks for the review
Many thanks Jorge! Will do! Next video series will be for Celebrity, and their new flagship, the Ascent. Boarding in January. Not Cunard, but the ship looks promising, will be an interesting comparison.
@@ritzytravelguide Looking forward to your review. We are considering possibly taking the Ascent on a trans-Atlantic cruise next year. One area we are curious about Is the Thermal suite. We usually sign up for it but I heard it is expensive on the ascent. ($475 per couple per week.)… and they don’t even have a hot tub there!
They must have gone all safety conscious since last year, I requested they set it ablaze, but the Fire and Safety officer/waiter refused! Strangely enough tea is at 3pm on QM2, but 3.30pm on Elizabeth. Very quirky. Bit like Sandringham time!
@@ritzytravelguide Or someone on the QM2 was bending the rules... maybe it's a Grills thing? Pretty sure tea on QM2 is 3:30 - it's what I remember and it's what the Cunard site says (between 3:30 and 4:30). Even though we travelled QG, we found the experience better in the Queens Room - really nice by one of the window seats, low down to the water. The Grills lounge on QM2 is a bit disappointing - should be better on QA Interesting points you make about QA not having a buffet (never tried the QM one) - AND the Italian restaurant being included at no extra charge
Just a question that Gavin has me ask you we like the Carinthia lounge we use to go for morning cafe lattes but had lunch there very limited choices of things available I don't do big lunches any advice please Bill?
Hi Diana, you mentioned you will be on Queen Elizabeth. The Cafe Carinthia there is smaller than on QM2, and sadly has a smaller food and meal selection. I don't know why, perhaps it's because the room is smaller than on QM2 and therefore has less room to add a buffet counter and serving station. Which is a shame as the cuisine in Carinthia Lounge on QM2 is excellent. That being said, a few options for you: 1. Lunch in Carinthia on QE has a smallish selection of tapas plates, charcuterie plates and salads. 2. If you are in Grills or Britannia Club, they serve decent light lunch 3. Golden Lion Pub serves lunch, and offers about 7 or 8 items. Though food at lunch tends to be 'pub-ish' in style. Pies, curry, fish and chips etc. Actually, I think the Golden Lion on QE is better at dinner, where the menu is more bistro like, which a good selection of slightly more elevated items 4. You could brave the Lido buffet, which does have a broad selection. But quality varies day to day. The outdoor rear section of the Lido serves BBQ type items 5. The Main Dining rooms (Britannia etc) are open for lunch. I note you did mention that you want light lunch. You could order just 1 or 2 courses Apologies, this is a very round about answer to your question, and you possibly were aware of all the above already! Had you been on QM2 then Carinthia is 100% your answer. That being said, the slimmed down 'Carinthia-lite' version on QE still does have a few options. As a complete back stop there is 24/7 room service .... but that is very defeatist!!
@@ritzytravelguide Thank you for your reply we have have travelled Cunard before but not on QM2 she only comes once a year but we are lucky have what we've got in the Carinthia last year they had gourmet type sandwiches etc. In the old days they would do a buffet up on deck those days are sadly long gone.
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The Golden Age of Cruising Video can be seen here:
ruclips.net/video/Fl6M9t21sQY/видео.htmlsi=KFXmpGk1qCzyH3ig
If you enjoyed this video, please do drop a comment in the box! By the way you can watch our latest video on Cunard here :
ruclips.net/video/VwicqlGFqOo/видео.html
I love the vintage footage.
@barbnahoumi65 It is lovely to see, isn't it!
Absolutely LOVE the vintage footage!!! This was extremely helpful. We will be sailing aboard QM2 for 30 days next year. Adore your channel ❤
Wow, QM2 for 30 days, what a wonderful treat, very jealous! Thank you very much for your kind words, lovely to read!
Amazing the people in bed in the 50s were dressed better than most people on formal night!!
@bstanz5266 Ha, ha, you're absolutely right, they were!
@@ritzytravelguide Could you possibly incorporate some vintage videos if possible into other videos where appropriate? It's so fascinating to see what it was like in times gone by. I hope our tipping etiquette video is coming soon! 💵
bstanz5266 Yes they were, and beautifully made up as well. No ruffled hair or tortured sheets.
You mentioned that tea used to be served in your outside deck chair. I remember that well, enjoying it while wrapped in a heavy blanket on the QE2. The other treat was a cup of hot bouillon typically served around 10 am. It really warmed me up and when finished I comfortably resumed my morning snooze!
Hi Chuck, what a great tradition, bringing the hot bouillon!
Sounds great 😊
Loved the vintage spots. The formality of dress, table manners, etc.
Yes, a bygone era indeed!
Excellent video sir, you are one of the best cruise presenters on social media, if not the best. We love watching them for the straight forward and truthful reviews.
Very kind of you to say, thank you!
Yet another masterpiece from Bill. Thanks so much for another valuable insight into what we can expect on our upcoming voyage. Your presentations are informative and entertaining which makes us look forward to what is in stall for us. We enjoyed the nostalgia included in this video and it was interesting to note that the gentlemen wore dinner jackets in the buffet back in the day. Your channel is one of our favorites and we're already looking forward to the next one.
Yes, dinner jackets in the buffet, imagine that! The food of yesteryear looked incredible. You must call up room service, and enquire if they might have be able to bring you pheasant on toast for breakfast
I'm really blown away by the attention to detail. Just imagine the amount of time and effort required for editing that goes into these videos.
@@Xavier7799 That's so kind of you! Yes, it is quite a long time in the editing booth!
Loved seeing the vintage footage.
I am looking forward to your full video of the golden age of cruising.
Hi, it's already out, you can see it here:
ruclips.net/video/Fl6M9t21sQY/видео.htmlsi=KFXmpGk1qCzyH3ig
Thank you!
Congratulations!! Your BEST video yet !! And that’s saying a lot, because all your past videos have been sensational. Love your lovely wife and your sense of humour and fun conversations! A month from now, I’ll be taking my first trip on the Queen Victoria. From Florida to San Francisco via the canal, with stops in Aruba , Guatemala and Mexico. This wonderful video has helped make me even more excited about what’s about to come!! I admit I am a bit of a “ Foodie “ so that’s probably part of the reason I enjoyed this particular video so much !! 😋😉. I traveled on the Queen Mary 2 last summer transatlantic both ways , and agree with all of your comments about the food with Cunard . Room Service at Breakfast was wonderful and such a treat. Gala night in Britannia is a MUST on the nights it’s offered !! Afternoon Tea in Queens Room is a MUST !! I also LOVED the little puddings in the glass cups in Carinthia Lounge. The only place of disappointment for me was the King’s Court. While the selection of food was nice, the two times I went, it was terribly crowded , lots of almost pushing and shoving. People rudely stepping in line in front of you !?! I laughingly thought it was almost like a “ EATING FRENZY AMONGST OF POOL OF GREAT WHITE SHARKS 🦈 “ !!😂 !! After the second attempt, I never went back !!! I loved the vintage Cunard film !! Yes I would love to see more in the future. I live about a 30 minute drive from the original (1936) Queen Mary in California , And am slightly embarrassed to admit that I have visited the ship probably 30 times ( including overnight stays in the hotel cabins) . No Ghosts! Don’t believe the silly stories you’ve heard. I love being on that elegant and regal ship !!! I sit back and daydream that it’s the 1930’s and am surrounded by famous and beautiful people! Oh Look, there’s Clark Gable and Marlene Dietrich ! 😯🙂😉 You , by the way are quite dashing in your Tuxedo! And your wife’s gowns are gorgeous! So elegant and classy. They look VERY expensive! So about that old man !🥴🤷♂️The Green and Cream floral number reminds me of the Scarlet O’hara BBQ DRESS IN GONE WITH THE WIND!!! Tell your wife that admire her excellent taste!! Pack that one especially for every voyage!👍🙂. Anyway thank you again for all your hard work and dedication to this wonderful video site!! Best regards MikeW🇺🇸
Hi Mike, thank you so much for your lovely message, and kind words, it is really appreciated!
You really are a Queen Mary afficionado to have visited 30 times, your knowledge must be second to none!
I shall pass your compliments on to my wife about her evening wear, she will be delighted to hear!
Have an amazing time on the Queen Victoria. That's a fabulous itinerary. I haven't been through the Panama canal for 10 years, but really should again soon. We did it the other way round, starting in Barbados, and then Aruba, Curaçao, Venezuela, Panama City, and then down to Chile and Peru.
Happy New Year to you and the family!
I love your accent!! Just came across your channel a few hours ago, and I've watched maybe 5 years. The first video was about what flying used to be like. I was hooked! Great videos! This one made me long for excellent food! Thank you for your videos!
That's really kind of you to say, thank you so much!
My dad was a waiter in first class (queens grill) in the fifties. He had a few stories about his experiences e.g. serving the Coca-Cola King and the tips he made. Always said Britannia class passengers gave him the run around and never tipped. He used to flambé steaks at the table and also crepes suzettes. I hope to experience the queens grill myself sometime in my life. I have been on several cruises but nothing like this. Seeing this video gave me an idea as to what it was like in the day - so thanks.
You're very welcome. Flambé steaks, tableside, was such a thing in those days!
Sir, what a pleasure it is and am sure it will be to listen your future reviews. A credit to the cruise liners for their efforts to cater for their passengers. Beautifully selected decor, not to mention the chefs and their love for the cuisine they prepare for their diners And yourself and your wife, beautifully spoken, correct attire enticing us to board and enjoy one of these wonderful cruise ships. We thank you so much for your presentation and will most definitely prepare ourselves for one of these cruises.
Hi Melody, thank you for your kind comments. Great to have you watching
Loving the retro films as well as your marvelous review of present-day Cunarding!
Thank you very much! Kind of you to say
Tramanto on Queen Anne is an extra: $20/head. We were on the naming cruise and absolutely loved Queen Anne. Sir Samuel's is the Verandah rebranded and absolutely fabulous
Many thanks for that. Strangely, Tramonto was scheduled to be Free, but at launch they appear to have changed their mind!
Love the vintage footage please do more ❤😊
I’m travelling on the Queen Elizabeth in 30 days😊 so your videos have been very helpful. Love the vintage cruise video.
30 days, not long to wait. Ask for quail in bed!
Very interesting video. I think you are a fair but tough critic 😀
A video that focused solely on the evolution of on board entertainment would also be welcome, and the Ritzy Travel Guide is the channel to make it 👍🏽
We try to be fair! Though sometimes people get a bit irked if I'm too firm, so hopefully a wink and a nod gives the answer away!
Hey Bill, yet another great video..we appreciate the time and effort that you need to put into pulling these together...! This was particularly useful for us, as we'll be travelling on Queen Anne very soon...and seeing the food is making us even more excited. Keep up the excellent work... Alison & Ian
Hi Alison and Ian, thanks so much! The new Queen Anne will be very exciting. I'm personally looking forward to spending evenings in the Bright Lights Society, as I think it will have a fascinating retro cabaret vibe to it, as well as the new Asian restaurants! Not too long to wait
Have enjoyed the comparison with the 1950’s, etc. We’ll be sailing to Norway in November and this has been helpful.
Have a great trip in November!
An outstanding video. You have a brilliant presentation style worthy of main stream television.
Thank you so much, I'll put my resume in for 60 Minutes 😁
I watched this while starving myself to fit into my dinner suit on Queen Mary 2 next month. I enjoyed it despite the hunger pangs it provoked. Incidentally, when I first cruised on QE2 in 2007 and 2008, dinner in the Mauretania Restaurant (the Britannia equivalent) was silver service, which gave an added feeling of luxury.
How funny, starving yourself whilst watching! Have a great cruise on QM2!
Great content. And the historical video is a great addition
Thank you so much John.
About to embark from NYC-Perth on our second half of the “Antipode” cruise (having done our first half from Dubai-Sydney in 2023). Huge fans of QM2…and loved this video…especially the vintage films. I must say with 55 days on board so far, we are in 100% agreement on your reviews. You’ll find us in all your highlighted spots: Carinthia Lounge, Golden Lion Pub and at tea whenever the strings are playing. Agree wholeheartedly with your assessments. Thank you so much for this delightful prelude to our upcoming journey. And for the speciality coffee tip…we did not know it was included in Britannia!
Hi Laura, have an amazing 2nd half of your Anntipode cruise. As its quite a few days at sea, it could be the perfect opportunity for you to create some Cruising Videos of your escapade... , and upload them to your Cruising channel? ! I'm sure you will have many a tale to share!
Considering if you want to cross the Atlantic by ship, QM2 is your only option these days (cargo ship does not count)...yes it's worth having that option of travel...even if the food was gross (which it isnt at all).
Great video thanks. I really enjoyed the vintage footage. Your wife attired in the black ruffle evening dress is fashion goals ❤👍🏻
She was a little nervous wearing that, but I'm so glad she did 🙂
Warm congratulations for another beautiful video, Bill! We are looking forward for the vintage video!
Thanks so much, very kind!
Yes please to more vintage footage.❤
Hi there, will do!
Wonderful Video. You did a great job!
Thanks very much!
Love the vintage clips. Would love see more
I'll do my best, for a future edition. Thanks!
Great videos! And yes we’d love to see vintage cruise videos! Those snippets were a nice addition.
Thanks 🙂
Thank you Bill for your videos they are very informative and entertaining. My wife and I are going on our very first cruise which will be on the queen Anne leaving Southampton in June so your videos are helping us get to know what to expect.
Many thanks
James
You are very welcome James, and best of luck with your cruise in June, I'm sure you will have a memorable time!
Great Video! Really enjoyed seeing the old footage! Making a video with old footage would be very cool! My wife and I will be going on the MSC Eurbia out of Southhampton on 9 - 16 Feb 2024. We will be doing Yatcht Club so are hoping we can avoid the excessive crowds that have been reported on MSC Eurbia cruises. Happy Cruising and keep the great vloggs coming!
Hi George, good to hear from you. Hope you have a great cruise 9n Euribia!
You created a fabulous video. I loved the historical footage. Your humor, playfulness, and razor -sharp observations make your work a joy to watch. Thank you for your hard work.
Thank you so much for watching and your kind comments, the historical footage is great to see, isn't it!!
Totally love the vintage footage, and would love a look at the heyday of cruising. Thank you for such a great and comprehensive overview
Great to hear from you Claudia, thank you so so much for watching!
Please, by all means, provide us with more nostalgic videos of vintage cruise life.
Hi Jeff, will do!
What a great video , very informative, we are looking at cruising with Cunard , will look forward to viewing your other videos 👍
Hi Yvonne, great to hear from you. Perhaps you might enjoy the new Queen Anne. A good place to start!
Witty, informative and fun to watch. All in all a very good video
Many thanks indeed!
Your a talented great couple, witty and very pleasing to watch.
That's so kind of you to say, thank you very much!
Love your videos and enjoy the vintage very much!
Thank you Karen!
Great and entertaining as always. Love the vintage footage.
Hi Frank, yes absolutely love the vintage footage, puts a smile on my face!
When we did QM2 crossing the pub only had food at lunchtime and it was always absolutely packed ….wish it had been as you found it!
Hi yes it's very odd, QM2 only opend the Golden Lion pub at lunch. Whereas the Queen Elizabeth is open at dinner time too, with an expanded bistro style menu. I have no idea why QM refuses to open for dining in the evening?!
Loved the vintage clips more please
Hi Patrice, will do!
Such a creative and original vlog with the vintage cunard ads..lovely❤🎉kudos
Thank you so much!
Dear Bill, I adore your facial expressions, says it all, great videos, thank you
So nice of you, thanks so much for watching 🙂
@@ritzytravelguide Its compulsory watching Bill, love the vintage inserts, good idea
@lindaridd4393 The vintage videos do make me smile. The narration and the breezy tone!
Love your work...and the vintage footage...
Hi Deidre, many thanks. Yes, I love the vintage footage too, puts a smile on my face!
Well done , looking forward to more parts of this one .
Thanks indeed, coming soon!
@@ritzytravelguide Will you be doing some Norwegian Cruises in the time coming ? If you are popping down to a little city in south Norway ill could he local guide for you if you would like too.,
@MrPh30 Hi, we are potentially on a Norwegian Fjords cruise in summer 2024. Still awaiting final decision. Thanks for making contact!
@@ritzytravelguide Ok,ill send you an mail over the weekend , but if you take the ferry in a mini cruise from Hirtshals up to Bergen, youll pass alomg on the way,and that tour can be bought separate tickets for each stop.
Hi Bill! Well presented video! I think a good part of why the buffets differ between ships might be that each Cunard ship has its own Executive Chef and you might be seeing differences in how each one runs their "shop".
Hi there, yes I think you're right. Strange thing is the Executive Chefs for the QM2 and QE are twin brothers, from the UK! . They were doing an afternoon tea presentation whilst we were onboard, and were very entertaining . I didn't get a moment to ask them why one of their buffets was so much better than the other!
Excellent videos old boy, best on you tube. We will be booking the QM2 for Norway next year.
Have a fantastic time on the QM2. Norway is always a gorgeous, scenic place to sail around
My favorite cruise channel. Love your content!
Thanks for being with us!
Watched this video and enjoyed it immensely thanks. Spookily though, I was in Ashtead today and saw your doubles.
Very spooky! My doppelganger is at large!
I love this video format. I am truly convinced to try the Queen Mary 2 out as a trip with my mother. Do they have any Mother’s Day cruises?
Hi, I'm not aware of Cunard 'theming' or basing a cruise specifically based around Mother's Day. But I'm sure the 2 of you would enjoy it. Take some showy gowns, embrace the Afternoon Teas, Dancing (or at least watching it) in the Queens Room, an Aperitif and nibbles in the Commodore Lounge...relaxed snacks, and lunch in the Carinthia. Perfect!
What a wonderful experience to have afternoon tea in The Queen's Room. I must book on Cunard.
Mark it down in the calendar!
This was a great video made more lovely when we spotted some familiar staff from the Queen Elizabeth! Your cruise must have been shortly after ours.
We agree with a lot of the Queen Elizabeth comments here, the Vernadah felt like a very special experience and excellent value for money.
We have our first experience of QM2 in August this year and we are really looking forward to the Corinthia Lounge based on this information, we probably would have passed it by otherwise.
Hi Joe, lovely to hear from you! Have a great time on QM2. The ship has recently been tweaked, upgraded and preened in dry dock so should look resplendent for your trip in August! Yes, do try the Carinthia, either for breakfast or lunch, or tea. Some great offerings to be had
Yes, Love the vintage footage…
Thanks Jeffrey, I'll try to include more in future videos
The food in the buffet was very high quality, for a buffet that is. The food in the main restaurant was only so, so. That is, until I asked hubby why he was having steak every night, he said it was exceptional, so I gave it a try. He was right, like always. I don't even eat steak as a rule but it was so good, particularly with the horseradish sauce always on offer. Even on gala nights, steak was our choice.
Many thanks for your comments. We'll mark you down as a Cunard steak fan!
Enjoy you videos especially vintage but the tea was a delight as I enjoy a good tea.
Good morning Bill. Love the channel very informative. I have undertaken many cruises over the years however never.Cunard. I would like to ask a question. Over the years I have noticed that “formal night “ has taken a dive with lots of cruise companies choosing not to enforce the dress code. Especially on ships flying the “ Stars and Stripes “ . There is nothing more annoying when passengers have been allowed to mix in the restaurants and bars in a “relaxed attire “. Could you please inform me of the Cunard take on this.. regards.
Hi there, Cunard passengers are by and large very compliant, with the vast majority happily dressing for formal nights. Out of all the cruiselines we travel on, Cunard most closely follows dress codes
I would like to see more vintage footage!👍 I'm happy to hear that the Queen Anne will NOT have a self-serve buffet. It should keep down the cooties. lol
Ha ha, keep out the cooties 🤣
Going on Queen Elizabeth next Aug to Alaska. First time on a Cunard. I have sailed princess and Royal Caribbean’. Hope it’s a great ship 😊
The Queen Elizabeth is a great ship, I'm sure it will be a wonderful first time experience for you 🙂
would bei nterested in seeing your vintage archive films about cruising in the 50s and 60s
Hi Ian, great to hear from you, will try to put it together soon!
Great video, would love more vintage content, thank you.
Hi Barbara, I love the vintage video too! Puts a smile on my face!
Loved the vintage films. Well done and very informative.
Thanks so much Gail! Glad you enjoyed it!
Is afternoon tea included in the total price?
Hi, yes it is!
Thank you very much indeed! Ciao!
Great review and very fair I would say. You mention the portions are smaller on non gala nights but does that mean you potentially end up hungry? Is the menu less expansive?
Love the vintage footage and would be very interested in seeing you document what it used to be like. There is a perception that the old days were far better but that isn’t always true. Look at air travel. Todays business class seats are light years ahead of what passed for first back in the day.
I’d really love to see you review the Queens Grill and see if you think that it’s worth splashing out for especially on a cheaper cruise like a winter crossing on the QM2.
Your most recent Cunard Cruise it looks like your traveling with your kids. It would be interesting to hear their perspective even if that means you relaying and paraphrasing their comments.
PS love that background. It really seems to suite you and these videos.
Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. In reply to your various questions :
1. No we didn't ever go hungry, but did occasionally go up to the buffet right at the end of the evening, for a sneaky midnight dessert sugar fix! Also of course, you are permitted to order 2 desserts, or additional entrees in Britannia, for no additional charge. But we rarely if ever do that. Occasionally we might have a main course as an appetiser if we preferred it.
2. No, our kids weren't on either of those Cunard Cruises, they were on the Mediterranean cruise we took with MSC, which included a stop at Barcelona.
Many thanks indeed for watching, we always love to hear back from people.
@@ritzytravelguide thanks for your reply. Since your travel guide to Barcelona came out recently I just associated it with the Cunard cruise. My Mistake.
Looking forward yo your next video. This one really made me want to take that Transatlantic cruise on the QM2!
🙂 We went to Barcelona twice recently, once with MSC and once with Cunard. The kids were on the MSC visit!
Food looks kind of old-fashioned❤
Lovely review, lived the archive footage. Only tiny thing I saw wrong the waiter plated the duck appetizer at 12 protine allways at six. If you review your stake your waiter repositioned your stake to 6 after he put it down, sure it didt effect the taste. Look forward to your bext.
Thanks Derrick!
Happy New Year Bill, to you, your lovely wife and family 🎉 I so enjoy your videos, your narration, attention to detail and the vintage footage is fascinating 😊 Im thinking of inviting my dear brother and sis in law on a Cunard cruise for our collective 60th birthdays in few years. Will give me time to save up😅 I am booked on Queen Anne in Dec tho and cannot wait! Cheers ✌🏻
Happy New Year Kate! A collective 60th celebration sounds an excellent idea! Time to save up for the Champagne bar you'll be visiting onboard together!
@ritzytravelguide Thank you Bill. You made me giggle at the vision of us saddling up to the bar ea night 😅
I was on Queen Victoria in Jan for a 4 night cruise to Hamburg BUT am really excited for my transatlantic on Queen Mary 2 - Southampton to NY and return by sea - 15 nights this coming OCtober. I have another balcony stateroom!!! Cinderella at the Ball!!!
Back to back Atlantic Crossing, you'll be an afternoon tea and ball pro!
Love seeing the vintage videos!
It's fascinating to take a look back isn't it
Love the vintage footage. We are sailing on Queen Anne next July so it's great to get an idea of what to expect.
Hi, very exciting to be on the new Queen Anne! You'll have all those new restaurants to try out. Have an amazing time!
Your very best video ever. Thank you, Sir.
So kind of you to say. Thank you very much!
Traveling on QM 2 in May 2024 from England to NY! First time on Cunard! So excited for the experience! Love your videos and narrations! Thx. 😊
That's a great time of year to be crossing. Very exciting.
Bountiful entertainment. Minor remark? Mute the soundtrack when you shoot the pianist 😅 or the quartet.
Fantastic video Ritzy Bill! Please put together a video of heritage cruising.
Keep the videos coming. 👍
Thanks Marc! Heritage cruising is fascinating to see... if only for a time machine... I'd be on deck in 1956, having afternoon tea in the blink of an eyelid
@@ritzytravelguide Yes, definitely. Hope you all have a lovely Christmas and New Year 😊
@marcwood5895 Many thanks Marc and a Happy Christmas and New Year to you too!
We will be doing a Transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2 in January 2025. My wife and I are big afternoon tea fans, so really looking forward to tea in the Queen's Room. I really like the china teapots shown on the Queen Elizabeth video, but noticed the teapots on some of the QM2 afternoon tea videos are rather plain looking metal. Are any china teapots used for Afternoon tea on the QM2? This probably sounds a bit silly, but it is a big deal to us.
"The real reason to choose Cunard is the experience" quote of the week
Thanks so much! (You did mean a good quote, right??)
@@ritzytravelguide Absolutely, pound to a penny Cunard plagiarise that one for brochures. Very apt description indeed
@familyfrost1399 I shall have to charge them for my brainwave!
Love your Videos. They make me feel treated very nicely and are also educating and fun. But for God sake how is it possible to eat that much? I am a 6ft active 26 year old man and I am absolutely shocked. The snacks alone would suffice. And you are both so thin and good looking despite your ages. Respect. Greetings from Germany.
Hi, we do have to pace ourselves carefully!
OH!!!! PLEASE! Vintage!
Hi there, thanks for your message. We now have a few vintage videos on our channel. You can watch the opening episode here :
ruclips.net/video/Fl6M9t21sQY/видео.html
Loved the vintage footage great video well done 👍
Thank you 🙂
Lovely video. Thank you. I found the food and service in Queens Grill and The Verandah excellent. But in Britannia and the Lido it's absolutely terrible.
Hi there, thank you very much for your kind words. Yes, the Lido can be extremely hit and miss!
i like the classic videos when cunard was still merchat navy with british seaman stewards before all the outsourcing
Love these videos. Is it possible that if you don't give something a perfect score, you could identify why? Where does it fall short of a perfect score?
Hi there Scott. Great to here from you. We try not to by too harsh in our comments , as everyone's perspective is different. In respect of why we didn't give top marks, nothing major but a few minor thoughts:
1. The main dining room, the Britannia could be quite hit and miss. On non Gala nights the standards could slip.
2. The buffet, particularly on Victoria and Queen Elizabeth is falling behind the offerings on other cruise lines
3. The Golden Lion on QM2 can be practically impossible to get in to, and is only open at lunchtimes. And the menu could do with a refresh. Thankfully it is open for evenings on QE
4 General quality of offering, outside the Grills is, perhaps not what it was 5 or 10 years ago.
But, all that being said, it's just minor issues, and it's the overall experience on Cunard that gives that special feeling. The ships are beautiful, and the cuisine is just fine
I can’t wait until you try Princess Grills and report back. Great humor in your videos. As always, your wife is indispensable in these vids. Without her, we wouldn’t see the gym!
We’ve been on both ships in both classes (Britannia and PG) and there is a difference. PG offers good value at the right deal, if food is important to you.
BYW, that was a string trio, not quartet in front of the Veranda…
I must have had too many cocktails, and lost count!
@@ritzytravelguide That was even before the Rum Baba!
After the Rum Baba I would probably have called it a brass band
I would be extremely interested to see the historic video.
I love the old archive footage.... oh to be able to travel back. And the forward again, once I missed wifi!
Bravo excellent review
Thank you Brigid!
Hi Bill,
We will be on Celebrity Ascent on the January 14th sailing. When are you going to be on Celebrity Ascent? We would like to meet you and your wife. Cheers, Sheree & Bryon
Hi Sheree and Bryon, what a shame, we're boarding the week after you on the 21st. We'll look out for you as you come off.... hopefully with a huge smile on your face, as it will have been an amazing experience!
I have been watching all of your Cunard and QM2 videos in preparation for a September 2024 crossing. As I admire your partner’s evening gowns and plan my own formal wear, I am getting worried that I’ll freeze while you gentlemen wear jackets! Apologies for the silly question, but has she been a comfortable temperature?
Hi there, not a silly question at all! My wife didn't at any stage feel cold inside, as the rooms are kept at a fairly constant temperature, year round. We have been aboard Cunard at various seasons of the year, and my wife has been able to wear whatever he heart desired, without worrying about internal temperatures. Outside on deck though is a different matter! You'll definitely need something warmer for that, as even in September it can get cool!
@@ritzytravelguide Thank you!
Vintage footage would be super, thank you
Thanks! The video is now out, about vintage cruising! You can find it in our playlist
You talked about sailing on Cunard ships back when Queen Elizabeth and the first Queen Mary were sailing it would be great ,and have you ever been to Long Beach, California to tour the first Queen Mary , Igot a chance it was very good tour
Hi Tracy, yes I have been to see the lovely ship at long beach, but it was a few years ago. I'm over due another trip!
When are best cruses with healthy friendly food like low sodium, low oil, low sugar?
Queen Mary 2 lost her gilded touch when they put "Hamilton, Bermuda" on her stern. It should have stayed "Southampton."
Hi do you get to keep the menus from dinner I’m Britannia restaurant? P and o you can ask to keep them as a memento
We will be on QE next month and I hope the food is better than last year it was underwhelming but it was the first season after covid
We are on her for 10 days so will book the Verandah between the 3 gala nights thanks for the review
The Verandah is always a lovely experience. There are so many tempting items on the menu you could go a few times!
I love your partners face after tasting things she didn't enjoy :)
After the remodeling of queen mary ll do you think its worth the price of 2nd class & 1st class
never had a less than excellent meal in QE Brittania restaurant
Great video -I’m so jealous. well done!
Many thanks Dan!
Love your informative videos and your entertaining style Bill. Thank you. Keep em coming! Jorge
Many thanks Jorge! Will do! Next video series will be for Celebrity, and their new flagship, the Ascent. Boarding in January. Not Cunard, but the ship looks promising, will be an interesting comparison.
@@ritzytravelguide Looking forward to your review. We are considering possibly taking the Ascent on a trans-Atlantic cruise next year.
One area we are curious about Is the Thermal suite. We usually sign up for it but I heard it is expensive on the ascent. ($475 per couple per week.)… and they don’t even have a hot tub there!
@GeorgeNeeds2Travel I'll try to poke my nose into the thermal suite, and see how it looks!
Pretty sure someone had something set on fire in the QM2 QG last October... I may be wrong. Excellent video
Isn't tea 3:30 not 3?
They must have gone all safety conscious since last year, I requested they set it ablaze, but the Fire and Safety officer/waiter refused!
Strangely enough tea is at 3pm on QM2, but 3.30pm on Elizabeth. Very quirky. Bit like Sandringham time!
@@ritzytravelguide Or someone on the QM2 was bending the rules... maybe it's a Grills thing?
Pretty sure tea on QM2 is 3:30 - it's what I remember and it's what the Cunard site says (between 3:30 and 4:30). Even though we travelled QG, we found the experience better in the Queens Room - really nice by one of the window seats, low down to the water. The Grills lounge on QM2 is a bit disappointing - should be better on QA
Interesting points you make about QA not having a buffet (never tried the QM one) - AND the Italian restaurant being included at no extra charge
Yes
Just a question that Gavin has me ask you we like the Carinthia lounge we use to go for morning cafe lattes but had lunch there very limited choices of things available I don't do big lunches any advice please Bill?
Hi Diana, you mentioned you will be on Queen Elizabeth. The Cafe Carinthia there is smaller than on QM2, and sadly has a smaller food and meal selection. I don't know why, perhaps it's because the room is smaller than on QM2 and therefore has less room to add a buffet counter and serving station. Which is a shame as the cuisine in Carinthia Lounge on QM2 is excellent. That being said, a few options for you:
1. Lunch in Carinthia on QE has a smallish selection of tapas plates, charcuterie plates and salads.
2. If you are in Grills or Britannia Club, they serve decent light lunch
3. Golden Lion Pub serves lunch, and offers about 7 or 8 items. Though food at lunch tends to be 'pub-ish' in style. Pies, curry, fish and chips etc. Actually, I think the Golden Lion on QE is better at dinner, where the menu is more bistro like, which a good selection of slightly more elevated items
4. You could brave the Lido buffet, which does have a broad selection. But quality varies day to day. The outdoor rear section of the Lido serves BBQ type items
5. The Main Dining rooms (Britannia etc) are open for lunch. I note you did mention that you want light lunch. You could order just 1 or 2 courses
Apologies, this is a very round about answer to your question, and you possibly were aware of all the above already!
Had you been on QM2 then Carinthia is 100% your answer. That being said, the slimmed down 'Carinthia-lite' version on QE still does have a few options.
As a complete back stop there is 24/7 room service .... but that is very defeatist!!
@@ritzytravelguide Thank you for your reply we have have travelled Cunard before but not on QM2 she only comes once a year but we are lucky have what we've got in the Carinthia last year they had gourmet type sandwiches etc. In the old days they would do a buffet up on deck those days are sadly long gone.