Every cruise aficionado is familiar with the Cunard name, even if they haven’t had the privilege of stepping aboard one of these beautiful ships. Whether you set sail on the Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Victoria, or the Queen Anne (due to start her maiden voyage in 2024), you’re in for a unique and unforgettable cruising experience.
We’re here to talk about the crown jewel in the Cunard fleet. Queen Mary 2, as the flagship, she’s under a great deal of pressure to ensure that every guest comes away with a great story or two. Through the years, she has lived up to the majesty of her name.
The Cunard Line is geared toward voyagers who prefer the journey to the destination, and the flagship invites them to live in the lap of luxury as they go. Read on to learn why you should choose this vessel for your next adventure upon the seas.
Queen Mary 2, the Last Ocean Liner
The Queen Mary 2 is more than a standard cruise ship—she’s the last of a rare breed. As of 2022, she was the only ocean liner still in service on the planet Earth. What’s more, she holds the distinction of being the largest ocean liner ever built.
What does that mean? While a cruise ship is designed for pleasure trips at low speeds, an ocean liner travels faster and is built to withstand harsh conditions. As the name suggests, it’s made to traverse oceans.
If you want to experience the height of luxury at sea the way they did in the olden days, the Queen Mary 2 can make your dreams come true.
Snoozing in Superior Staterooms
When you book passage aboard this ocean liner, you’ll be granted access to a private stateroom, complete with toiletries and turndown service. Basic interior staterooms offer the best value, but Princess and Queens Grill Suites have the final word in luxury, with perks such as concierge service and a personal butler. Doesn’t that sound better than a cramped seat on an airplane?
Setting A Gold Standard for Dining
Also included in the cost of your fare are meals at several fine onboard restaurants. The primary eatery is called the Britannia, and it offers exquisite dining in an elegant setting. If you’re lucky enough to snag a Queens Grill Suite, you’ll be granted access to the Queens Grill, an upscale option that will reserve you a table for your exclusive use throughout the voyage.
Thirsty for more? The Golden Lion gastropub offers tantalizing libations and entertainment for an additional fee. Finally, know that complimentary room service is available to all passengers at any hour of the day or night.
Cozying Up with Afternoon Tea
A Cunard tradition, this ritual takes place daily between 3:30 and 4:30 in the afternoon. If being aboard this fine ship isn’t already enough to make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, the Afternoon Tea is sure to take you the rest of the way.
When you enter the Queens Room, you’ll be greeted by soft lighting, discreet piano, or harp music, and professional white-gloved waitstaff. Once you’re seated at one of the ornate tables, these professionals will present you with an assortment of tempting treats.
The menu changes daily, so you can easily indulge in this ritual every day of your trip without getting bored. Selections may include finger sandwiches, Signature Cunard scones (available with fruit or plain), or other assorted pastries. And then, of course, there’s fine leaf tea from Twinings to wash it all down.
Getting in Touch with Your Inner Thespian
If you love live theater, you’ll be overjoyed to learn that you can incorporate that love into your onboard experience.
This assortment of shows could hold its own against most Broadway and West End productions. Whether it’s a lighthearted musical or a tear-jerking drama, you’re sure to lose yourself in the story and the spectacle. As a bonus, the facilities are state-of-the-art, with cozy seating and perfect lighting.
Being Wowed by Cabaret Artists
The Queen Mary 2 cruise ship regularly hosts high profile guest performers, from musicians and vocalists to comedy acts and illusionists. Though the schedule and repertoire will vary depending on which voyage you choose, you’re bound to find a performance that will delight you.
Dancing Like Royalty in the Queens Room
Ballroom dancing seems to be a lost art these days. That will change once you’re aboard the Queen Mary 2.
In the Queens Room ballroom, you can waltz the night away beneath crystal chandeliers to the tune of a live orchestra. If ballroom dancing isn’t your thing, try your hand—or both of your feet—at Latin dancing instead. Lessons are complimentary, and you’ll be able to add a new skill to your repertoire before you disembark.
Taking in Fine Cinema at Illuminations
Want to take in a movie on the big screen? Don’t let the fact that you’re at sea stand in your way. At Illuminations, you can stay up to date on the latest blockbusters and other current releases. Of course, if you’d prefer to view a film from the comfort of your stateroom, there are numerous films available to screen on your TV as well.
Indulging in Gala Evenings
The atmosphere at the Britannia is posh enough on its own, but that’s no reason not to kick things up a notch. On select evenings, guests are invited to dress in black tie and enjoy a carefully crafted food and drink menu. Gifted musicians are waiting to entertain you, and the crew has gilded the lounge with special decorations. This experience could be the highlight of your trip.
In Conclusion
As the saying goes, ocean liners are ships with a hotel-like vibe, while cruise ships are hotels that happen to float. Though your comfort will be taken into account at every turn, Cunard’s flagship is first and foremost an ocean liner. That means your safety has been attended to in equal measure, allowing you to enjoy the crossing to the fullest.
Don’t wait any longer to pamper yourself—book your voyage on the Queen Mary 2 cruise ship today!