Iconic QM2 Cunard Transatlantic Ocean Liner
~QM2~
Speciality Dining In the Verandah, I have to say the food was incredible. Being my first experience of a speciality restaurant on Cunard, I hope they roll out the new menu and theme everywhere! Fantastic service and incredible food. The waiter introduces the different cuts of steak on a display board and explains each of them and how best to enjoy them (rare to well done). There are, of course, other options for those who are looking for something other than steak, but I must say that if you are looking for vegetarian or vegan options, the choices are extremely limited, and you will pay a supplement if you decide to order anything not on the menu. But for me, it was steak all the way. And I wasn’t disappointed…by far one for the best steaks I’ve ever eaten!
Costing $19.50pp, there is one other speciality restaurant onboard which has a revolving menu featuring Italian, Indian, Asian, Mexican and American. This is a ‘pop up’ restaurant which is located in a dedicated section of the Kings Court Restaurant (buffet). Each evening a section is cordoned off and elegantly decorated to create a unique and relaxed fine dining experience. The five menus mean there is plenty of variety on offer should you wish to try something a little different.
The Britannia Restaurant (Inclusive) If you don’t fancy a speciality, the main dining venue onboard is the Britannia Restaurant. Here you will find excellent service and delicious food. Dinner in the main dining room provided some of the most exquisite meals at sea and the quality of food and service provided exceeded anything I’d experienced before. Cunard is much more traditional in terms of dining and currently only provides set time dining: early (6pm) or late (8.30pm). If you want Freedom Dining, then you have no choice but to choose a Britannia Club balcony grade cabin or higher (or eat at specialities or the buffet each night).
Honesty section... Indeed, there were signs that this differentiation just wasn’t working with some shows and seating clashes, but they tried to accommodate 7pm shows for the late diners. There is an exclusive Grills Lounge onboard, only accessible to those staying in Princess or Queens Grills suites. Having said this, it certainly didn’t impact my cruise in the slightest or deter from my overall enjoyment. The internet was fabulous but very expensive. If you don't need to work or have data, a digital detox can be a godsend – after all, worse things happen at sea, so all in all, not too much to moan about! Despite this, I was loving my time onboard and enjoying every aspect that I had encountered so far. My first voyage with Cunard, it was beyond exciting being able to explore this iconic ship. Whilst walking outside on the deck myself and Carole said we felt like we’d ‘gone back in time’.
Afternoon tea onboard Queen Mary 2 I couldn’t leave the subject of food without mentioning afternoon tea. By far the best at sea, Cunard’s signature Afternoon Tea is an experience that you must try when onboard. From white gloved service, to perfectly fresh sandwiches, patisseries and scones, all set in the elegant Queens Room where classical music sets the scene perfectly – it really is a delight! We loved the little added indulgence with Godiva chocolates on our bed each evening. Think Godiva cakes, Godiva scones, Godiva chocolates and even Godiva ice cream, it was beyond heaven and every chocoholics dream!
Starry delights Another fantastic experience onboard is Illuminations – a dedicated planetarium at sea! Illuminations hosts key guest speakers, cinema films and, of course, intergalactic space odysseys. Cunard provide several different planetarium shows, all of which are completely immersive. As you recline back looking up to the huge dome above you, you realise you’re in for a treat! Narrated by Sigourney Weaver (who I love!), our show was all about asteroids, how we monitor them, and how we could prevent a disastrous collision with Earth! These are one of the many things you can do when at sea and I highly recommend going.
A dogs life Did you know you can take your pet pooch onboard? Only on certain voyages though. I loved visiting the dog walking area and kennels, which is another unique element of Queen Mary 2 that makes her so special. It was surprising how many dogs were onboard. When we disembarked at Southampton it was very strange standing in the terminal surrounded by dogs. I loved it! Naturally, our furry friends aren’t allowed to wander where they please, but the fact that this option is available is fantastic. From what I could see, your beloved dogs are well looked after and spoilt just as much as you are onboard. Although, if I took my Cavalier King Charles, I think I would spend the entire time in the kennels with her!
The Commodore Club I realise I’ve mainly spoken about food here; here you can find the most incredible drinks and even a Cigar room on board.
The show must go on… The dancing shows, dance lessons and general entertainment from staff was exceptional. As a dancer, to finally have the time to learn Tango with the incredible ‘taxi dancers’ was just amazing! Long may the lessons continue now I’m home. Not a bad word to say. We were also onboard during fashion week; some great lectures offered and shows put on for this week. Depending on the time you travel and where this is all adapted, don’t you love this about cruising?
Queen Mary 2 is the most incredible ship and opportunity to sail out of New York on her on this iconic Transatlantic voyage. 7 nights at sea as you cross the Atlantic really does fly by but gives you full opportunity to explore this unique ocean liner and relax in complete luxury. I'm sure there isn’t another ship in the world to match her grandeur, atmosphere, history and charm. Cunard aren’t perfect… they do provide outstanding quality, incredible service and beautiful ships that really do give you a taste of the glory of ocean travel.
That’s a wrap