Queen Victoria voyage to Amsterdam with Cunard

Travelling solo gave me the chance to really notice how the ship caters to different types of guests – and as ever, I had a keen eye on how families were enjoying themselves.

Even though I wasn’t with my own children on this trip, it was clear that families felt very much at home on board. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed; the children and teenagers always looked happy and had plenty to keep them occupied - from kids’ clubs and table tennis to swimming and deck games.

Afternoon tea was a real highlight: both parents and children seemed to delight in the tradition, and the staff were genuinely enthusiastic about interacting with children on board.

Disembarkation on our port day in Amsterdam was simple and well organised. I took a cruise-line canal boat excursion, which was seamless, as we only had to walk a couple of hundred yards from the ship to board and this would be a really easy and fun way to see the city as a family.

What struck me most was how families had the space to come together, but also split off and do their own thing. There was plenty of opportunity for some peace and quiet or more grown-up activities such as guest speakers, live music, and comedy, but also inclusive experiences that appealed to all ages. I saw children absolutely fascinated by the ballroom dancing and the fencing – not experiences you’d expect on most holidays!

Queen Victoria strikes a lovely balance. There’s classic comfort and a refined atmosphere that works beautifully for adults – who are perhaps the more obvious guests – but there’s also a surprising amount of variety to keep families content.

I would happily sail with Cunard as a family (my own children are 9 and 10), though for our next Cunard voyage we would probably choose Queen Anne, which is a larger, more modern ship, or Queen Mary 2, the iconic ocean liner.

For families who want a really high-energy, resort-style cruise with waterslides and endless child-focused activities, Cunard isn’t the right line. However, for those who enjoy quality time together, taking part in low-key, classic shipboard activities and discovering fascinating ports of call, I think Cunard is a really good match.

I am always happy to discuss and advise of the suitability of various cruise lines and ships to help match them with your family's needs. Feel free to reach out.