My time on board Cunard Queen Mary 2 - Part One

First impressions were just as I imagined. We were greeted by the Bellboys in all their finery and a string quartet was playing in the Grand Lobby, a really “fine” welcome onboard.

Our cabins were ready for us to settle into straight away (this is a first for me as normally you have to wait a good few hours to be able to go down) so it was fabulous to be able to quickly unpack before heading up to Kings Court (the 24/7 buffet restaurant) for a bite to eat and a mandatory glass of bubbles!

I stayed in a sheltered balcony cabin which I was really pleased to experience. I often recommend this cabin type for transatlantic cruises as it offers more shelter if needed. It is so deep as well. We did have rain on our journey but I was still able to step out onto the balcony and enjoy the fresh air without getting drenched due to the protection it offered. We were on deck 4 and were sandwiched by cabins above and below us so had very minimal noise.

There was plenty of storage space for two ladies sharing!

I visited the Princess and Grill Suites and have pictures to share and recommendations so please let me know if you would like more detail on all they have to offer.

The food I enjoyed throughout the cruise was amazing! This includes the main dining restaurant where I did not have one disappointing course, never mind a meal.

When you have several glorious sea days ahead of you, it provides ample time to experience the different dining options and we all definitely made the most if it.

From King's Court (the informal dining option that’s open 24 hours a day), to pub food in the Golden Lion (this is a very popular location as major sporting events are shown too), to quick grab light bites in the Carinthia lounge (my favourite for breakfast and often lunch!) to the Britannia main dining room, every meal has been sublime. The menu was also very varied in Britannia with a completely different menu everyday.

The speciality restaurants of Steakhouse at The Verandah, La Pizza, located in Kings Court (elevated Italian Cuisine) and Bamboo (Pan-Asian theme), each were worth every penny.

And….do not forget the quintessential afternoon tea which is served daily in the Queens Room. Complete with Cunard White Line service it must be experienced at least once (and get there early to grab a table as it is popular….everyday!). This is also included in the cost of your cruise and the sandwiches and cakes were delightful. Plus, the scone was still warm! I elected to pay add a glass of champagne to my experience to really finish it off (the champagne cost was extra but always worth it!).

Plus, if you ever find that you are still hungry you can avail of the complimentary room service, it is a foodie heaven.

There is also plenty of choice for those with specific dietary requirements, vegetarians, and vegans.

Princess Grill and Queens Grill suite guests also have beautiful, dedicated dining rooms that provide an even further elevated dining experience.

Since my return I was asked if I was bored spending so long at sea and the simple answer is definitely not!

I have included pictures as an example of the daily programme. One thing you will never be onboard is stuck with nothing to do.

There really is something for everyone. It is a great opportunity to try something different, such as fencing, golf, or learning how to play shuffle board. Plus, there are wonderful singers, bands, and classic performers to sit back and enjoy. Plus some amazing Insight speakers!

I spent a few “tough hours” one day in The Commodore Club doing the Signature Cocktail tasting. It is 46 dollars including service charge for 7 half size signature cocktails. In my opinion it is amazing value and I highly recommend you do it when onboard.

I also made use of the beautiful Mareel Spa where there are so many different treatment options available. I also recommend getting a pass for the Aqua Therapy Centre (this can be purchased for multiple days or a few hours). It is a blissful location to unwind and enjoy the various heat and steam rooms, sensory showers and hydro pool.

Queen Mary 2’s library is the largest at sea with more than 8,000 hardbacks, 500 paperbacks, and 200 audio books! Plus, when guests finish their book on board, they can donate it to the library for the next person (one of mine is now part of this collection). There are also Internet computer stations if you need to catch up on your emails. It is such a beautiful space and a must visit whilst onboard!

I also loved going to “promenade” everyday which was popular by all and it was great doing a good mile walk on deck 7 around the ship.