Interested in quirky cabins? Here's some more: This cabin faces INSIDE the ship: ua-cam.com/video/bSNLLGZgtpw/v-deo.htmlsi=EzwaGOBUqNWKLMe6 This cabin faces backwards: ua-cam.com/video/ZxpdsnA80z4/v-deo.htmlsi=5sSzxscMjBcTs2I7 This bathroom has a glass wall! ua-cam.com/video/EvhmoI-OJa8/v-deo.htmlsi=aGuAgP3olYhaAgH-
Hey Emma. It’s actually a lovely cabin. Like the color scheme and agree with you; don’t need a sofa and prefer a bigger bathroom/shower. Don’t mind being close to the elevator at all. Would pay the extra $125 for a balcony. Thanks for sharing.
We call those cabins an inside inside cabin. We like inside cabins because they are nice and dark, like a cosy cave. Helps us rest better and have a better experience.
Hello Emma, do ships have wheelchair accessible rooms? It feels like it might not be terribly safe being on wheels on the rolling sea, but you tell me if you ever see it?
From a historical perspective, I'm thrilled the Cunard keeps the Queen Mary name. My grandfather was a WWII veteran and brought home from the war on the Queen Mary in 1945. Many forget the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary transported troops during WWII. In an age when history is forgotten or overlooked, I think it's wonderful the heritage is remembered and honored.
My father sailed to England in 1943 and back to NYC in 1945. He was on the Queen Mary for one trip and the Queen Elizabeth for the other. But he couldn’t remember which one.
I spent eight years working on a ship, bunk beds, roommate, inside cabin. Went to 100 countries, and made it to Easter Island, Antarctica, and traversed the Northwest Passage onboard Crystal Cruises. I loved my cozy little upper bunk.
I once sailed on an ocean liner as a 14 year old, the SS United States.... it was an amazing ship, and yes, a long time ago. It was fast, comfortable, wonderful food and service, quite luxurious and a great experience. Our beagle traveled with us [we were moving to France, Dad was military, assigned to NATO] and was in the kennel [about a half dozen dogs were boarded in the kennel if I recall correctly], so we were encouraged to visit with him daily, taking him for walks on the designated kennel walkway. There were also other teens making the journey, so we had a lot of fun. It's so sad what happened to that ship in its later life. It was once the pride of the American maritime industry . Because we were a family of 4, we had a what I'm sure would have been called a junior suite today. There was a balcony, which I loved. I'd call for room service breakfast and eat it out there. Had my first croissant and cup of milky coffee with lots of sugar.
We have done several Transatlantics on QM2, in those very cheap cabins, in oceanviews and sometimes in balcony cabins. Always a great time! Actually we love it in the winter months when the sea is rough, waves are high and this wonderful ship can really show how it can master the oceans. Lovely!!! Hopefully we will be doing another TA in 2024.
Hi Emma. I know you said you don't really pay attention to subscriber count, but according to Gary Bembridge at Tips for Travellers' unofficial list, you are now the #2 cruise-focused website on UA-cam. 🙂 Congratulations for a 275K subscriber milestone that you don't care about. 🤣
Inside rooms are fine. Only in there to sleep, cleanup. Usually out up on deck anyway. Especially on a cruise where there is actually something to look at, e.g. Alaska.
Agreed, absolutely loved having a balcony the one time I ever did. It's a nice way to enjoy the weather and setting while retaining some solitude. Much more peaceful than the pool deck.
I’ve been on the Queen Mary 2 six times in my life and always had a balcony with a sliding door, love the ship, the food and the drinks but not crazy about the snobby English.!
Yeah and the beer must flow on a ferry or liner and I can't imagine waking up with a hangover and staring out at the endless blue vastness of the ocean x.x
For all of the entertainment and dining choices, there is nothing better than standing at the front of the ship, feeling the sea wind and spray and silence. So therapeutic.
I have many times stayed in the cheapest cabin many times when I first started cruising. I'm not in the room enough to have a window, but now only book cabins with a window or balcony. Very nicely done thanks
I concur with your assessment. I've only booked inside cabins. I've been on 3 transatlantic crossings and find the QM2 to be stable, jet lag free way to get back and forth to Europe. I enjoy the room service for breakfast but have used it once early in the morning. Thank you for all your postings. You do a wonderful job and I enjoy your cheerful attitude!
@@EmmaCruises Emma, why don't you or other bloggers ever talk about Oceanview cabins? They are often a reasonably priced alternative, with full balconies. With QM2's Transatlantic crossings, often they are the best cabins, in that it is too cold for out door space living.
First, it's always nice watching your videos. My wife is now insisting on an balcony cabin. We were cruising with inside cabins just to be frugal but we found we couldn't get up in the morning as we didn't know what time it was and we enjoyed sleeping a bit too much. I like your daylight alarm clock for this purpose.
Great video Emma. I took a 7 night transatlantic crossing with my wife in July. We splurged for the Princess Grille suite, and it was the greatest trip I have ever been on in my life. I already very much miss the ship. Cheers.
I started taking the Queen Mary 2 back and forth from the UK instead of flying for some reason that inside cabin is cheaper internal business class ticket. This past Christmas 2023 when I was returning from the UK I believe it was one of the first crossings since it's been overhauled and I have to say the cabins look amazing inside now they're updated no scuffs anywhere the ship smelled like it was a brand new ship it looked amazing from the public areas to the cabin and even down on the bottom deck where the crew stays it was amazing.
I have worked customer service related jobs for my entire life. I appreciate the fact with the double beds error you blamed the ocean liner versus the staff that help you.
I also worked in customer service for many years, it is refreshing and quite nice to hear someone appreciate the hard work that goes into making this great ship run son smoothly.
Screw ups like this are mostly down to staff being give incorrect information but the way it was sorted out here with no drama speaks volumes about the focus on service and passenger satisfaction on this ship. In my experience, although the stewards are busy they are always willing to help and nothing seems to be too much trouble for them.
We've done eight transatlantic crossings on QM2, in flat calm and hurricane-force storms and she just plows through the waves. Watching your video left me with pangs of nostalgia for the ship. We've also done cruises on Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth which are OK but once you've been on QM2 nothing else compares.
The Queen Mary is simply wonderful. I have sailed twice and, each time in one of the Grills, which is a very different experience, but for the price you paid to include nice comfortable accommodations, all food, entertainment, classes and lectures, afternoon teas, ball room dancing etc, for a bit over $100 a day, that is a spectacular deal. My wife and I were talking last night about taking another transatlantic cruise.
My late Mom went back and forth between Europe and the USA a few times in the 1950s, usually on liners, sometimes in upper class cabins when she’d saved up enough money. The SS United States, now rotting away In Philadelphia, was her favorite. She dined at the Captain’s table at least one night.
Wow, this is ironic, my wife and I JUST disembarked the QM2 a few days ago! It was our honeymoon and her first cruise. The QM2 was a bucket list cruise ship for me, so I was super thrilled to be on it. We loved it!
I'm pretty easy to please when it come to a room. Good temperature, clean, comfortable bed, and good shower pressure, and I'm happy. I thought the cabin looked to be reasonable size. I don't think many people take a cruise to be mostly in their cabin. I mean you've got a whole ship to explore, enjoy, and look at the sea. Some time I'd like to do a Transatlantic sailing on a true ocean liner, and now I know what to expect.
I had that same room on a cruise QM2 where I moved my cat from Europe to the US. I was only in there to sleep, the room was great. The cat is flat nosed and couldn't fly, this was the only way to move him.. Totally worth it and stress free and fun for me too. Shout out to the pet kennels masters. They are awesome.
We adore the QM2 and will be taking our 4th crossing soon. We love a cozy interior and from a cost perspective much more pleasant than flying over the Atlantic.
I would pay extra for an exterior cabin. When you compare the prices with both hotel rooms and airfare, it is a really good deal, I think. Yes, it's 3 days as opposed to 8 hours, but you're on vacation anyway, and it gives one a chance to catch up on one's reading.😊
If you try a balcony cabin on Atlantic in Mid winter Jan-March complete waste money stand outside and prepare to be windswept. Best value inside or porthole cabin
Congratulations, Emma, on a very accurate account of QM2, my favourite ship in the world. I sail on Cunard 3x year ~ and would do more if I could. You are spot on about the inside cabins ~ they are terrific and nothing to complain about. Queen Anne's maiden voyage is May 3/24 and I cannot wait to take a peek. I am eternally grateful to the crews on Cunard ships ~ they are LOVELY.
As a person with a more historical inclination and someone who finds the floating hotels ugly, the QM2 might be the only ship I'll ever be on. And even then it'd only be for a transatlantic
Excited to do a trans-Atlantic crossing in June as a grand finale to our trip to Germany and the UK. Unfortunately that means packing a lot more as I wasn't intending to travel with various suits, dress shoes, etc. Shall be interesting! Thanks for the great video!
Okay let's try again as my first post has vanished...QM2 is a gorgeous, classical ship that is a great seaboat, has great service and great food too. I recommend doing a full Transatlantic in December so you can see her decorated for Christmas - she is spectacular.
Reminds me of the trips that my family took in 1963 and 1965 between New Zealand and Holland. (yes, I was young - 5 and 7, but I retain a wealth of memories!
For an inside cabin it looked quite posh. but for the extra 100 quid, I'd take the balcony view cabin. all in all, it looked a very good value indeed, no petulant children about.
My wife and I got engaged on the Queen Mary in Long Beach. My high school also had our Senior Prom there and our 10 year high school reunion. I love to see the name still being used. We also, love cruises and just got back from an Alaskan cruise.
I would pay the extra for the balcony. I enjoy sitting and relaxing on the balcony while reading a book or listening to music. I did a ocean view room one time on a shorter cruise with very limited balcony rooms and was miserable.
I always try to get a sideways when it's an inside, Oceanview. Really helps with the motion sickness to have your head/feet are in a forward/aft direction. I had one on Prima and in rough seas it was relaxing, even with the waves. 🙂
I would pay extra for a balcony, depending on how much extra since I like having a place to retreat to, but I can also smell the sea air because sometimes if you’re out where there’s many people and you’re a semi introvert, you need a place to retreat to.
Love your channel Emma! I have never even been on a cruise but I can’t to stop watching your videos 😂 you’re so down to earth and genuine it makes the videos so nice to watch! You may have convinced me to try cruising! (also I’m an Aussie with a British grandparent so I love hearing which Britishisms match us and which ones don’t ❤)
I've had trouble sleeping and sunrise clocks are amazing. I have one that allows me to plug a regular lamp into and it brings the light up or down on a timer, gradually lowering the light as I fall asleep, similar to sunset, and gradually increasing the light by my bed, similar to sunrise. Since using it, I wake up more gently before my radio alarm turns on.
Oh my gosh! Sorry, but you have not lived until you spend a week on the QM2. We took our first cruise at just about your age, a cheap Princess cruise to Alaska. My wife and I "knew you would not enjoy the cruise", but the only way to see Alaska. Boy, were we wrong! When we complete our currently booked trips, we will be "platinum on both Princess and Cunard.
I love the QM2 it is my favourite ship. It always feels luxurious. I don't think I could ever do an inside cabin again. We did it once and hated it. We had a protected balcony cabin on our first cruise on the QM2 and we thought it was great. It was November and very mild and I don't normally like sitting on the glass balconies because I don't like heights but that balcony was great and very cosy we were out there all the time.
We have crossed on QM2 twice, in inside cabins, and loved it. So many interesting displays, good shows & lectures, and the Golden Lion pub was a fav place to eat.
I was just on the Queen Mary 2 less than a week ago! On the transatlantic crossing! It was great! :) in the sheltered balcony cabin I loved it. I wouldn't get a different cabin even if I had all the money to spend. Great review! :)
My only concern with an inside cabin is what would happen if your ship had a medical outbreak and hundreds of people were sick and everyone was quarantined. I’d hate being stuck inside for days. When I have a balcony I can get some fresh air every day. An employee of mine got stuck in such a situation in Florida maybe 20 years ago. The ship wasn’t even allowed to disembark because they didn’t want illness being spread. Sailings are sometimes extended also because of hurricanes so I avoid cruising the Caribbean during that season anyway. It’s my least favorite place to cruise anyway because it’s all pretty much the same each cruise. With Baltimore being closed now I understand they are sailing more out of Norfolk VA USA and that’s enticing to me. Only a few hours away by car, that would be a treat!
Hi Emma, I love your viedos and tips. Personally I would be paying the extra for a balcony. I LOVE the sea. We copped a double cyclone in 2017 and, even though they made us stay inside the whole time and balconies were locked, we still watched the rough seas and loved it. I also love the fresh air. Just my own personal opinion. In saying that, if I was with someone who said they want an iside cabin, I would go along with it as my very first cruise in 1978 was an inside 6 berth cabin with our parents and 4 kids. We didnt notice no window, except for it being PICTH BLACK INSIDE. No light snuck in at all.
Firstly - 👏🏻well done! A most impressive review. Your daylight alarm clock/light is brilliant. I can see why it is your must have when inside cabin sailing. I look forward to some of your other reviews as I am now a subscriber. One critique however, before I disembark (seen what did there😂). We must meet your mum, dad and brother. Happy sailing ✌️
I probably wouldn't spend the extra on the balcony myself. I think the inside is nice enough. On my next cruise, I actually booked a solo cabin with Norwegian, so I'm looking forward to that. They're itty-bitty cabins, but just the right price.
Thank you! I didn’t even know that a daylight alarm clock was a thing that existed, but it was definitely something that I needed in my life. I’ve just ordered one and I expect that getting up at a quarter to six for work will be much more pleasant.
Though I always get a balcony, inside rooms are great imo. Balconies are perfect for when arriving at a destination. I always plan my room, by the side the ship's views are the best. A really good agent can help with this. Also an agent can specify which balconies have no obstructions. But look, Panama canal, Alaska, Greek Islands, so many places you really want to be outside on deck. Long winded, sorry, but my point is, if you plan on staying in your room all day, what are you doing on a cruise lol? BTW, I crossed the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2 and I found it to be a lovely ship.
Emma, thanks for the thorough review of the QM2 ocean liner. I was able to spend about a week on board the Queen Mary when it was moored at the dock in Long Beach. I was attending an audio conference for sound engineers. Even though it was out of date and not properly maintained, I still was able to understand what it was like to travel aboard a top tier ocean liner. I had a dream once to take a trip aboard the QM2 to England and travel back on the Concorde but never had the chance when the Concorde was taken out of service.
If I had the money, i would pay extra for the balcony, but the inside cabin would be better than staying home! When I eventually get to Los Angeles, I hope the stay on the old Queen Mary. I gather that it has now re-opened! Thank you for the video!
I went on a cruise this past July and booked an inside. Cheaper room and the same cruise as the suites. I wanted more money for the vacation. My friend fell and wrecked her knee two days before and I had it to myself😢. But other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.
You were granted a great inside cabin for your "Saver Fare!" I made four transatlantic crossings in 2017 and 2018, all in inside cabins; one on deck 5, the other three on deck 6, all cabins that I chose after closely studying the deck plan. I'm more inclined to choose my cabin due to not wanting to be too far forward, nor on a very high deck...which is why I will never book a Britannia Club cabin on the QM2. I can also recommend booking an obstructed balcony cabin on the Queen Elizabeth (QE); I also chose that cabin for a 5-night "Big Band Cruise," which I sandwiched in between my eastbound and westbound crossings in August 2017. That said, I really studied the QE deck plan to book a cabin with less of an obstruction than others in my price range. I'm looking closely at the 2026 crossings and cruises that have just been released for booking, just have to decide which cruises or crossings to book!
I've worked in the hospitality industry for decades (both land and sea). What I find absurd, is younger people always booking the cheapest rate in an older venue and complaining that it looks "dated". Can't you possibly get past that and say it looks "classic" or "period correct" ? Why, does everything have to be remodeled every other year to reflect the latest taste? Aren't you the generation that cries about being "sustainable" and "ecologically responsible"? How much waste and materials do you think it takes to make everything "shiny and new" every other year to suit the "latest craze" ??? Clean, well maintained and comfortable are a more important and sustainable option, in my opinion.
So you're blaming an entire generation for allegedly having two opposing views at the same time? Every social group is made up of individuals, and some of those individuals will complain about a lack of style and some will complain about a lack of sustainability. Doesn't it cross your mind that those two kind of people are not the same people?
Thanks for the great post! I have not seen you pop up in my feed in a long time and I just want to say your video seems so much more polished now and you seem so much more relaxed and smooth. Lovely to see you again.
Had an inside cabin on the MV Keran in 1984 travelling from the Ascension Islands to the Falklands. What fun going through the Roaring Forties living up to their name.
Love the videos Emma. Just a note regarding taking toiletries home. It should be remembered that because guests pay for it, it doesn't suddenly change ownership. Guests are paying for the use of the products offered. You would not believe what guests will try to pack into their suitcase using this premise.
I laughed a bit when you talked about the electric kettle. I'm a Yank and can't live without one. I've been corrupted by my travels. 😂 Great write up as well. I'm going to look into spending some time traveling this way.
I think there are two basic sets of people. One's who will spend most of their time in their cabin, and those who will not. For the latter, they just need a decent bed and bathroom and don't care about private balconies etc; for the former, they need an equivalent to a full hotel suite. There's no easy answer. I have the financial resources to afford pretty much anything, but I would not pay for an elaborate suite because I know I would be out of the cabin 70% of the time anyway.
Just use your room as a nautical crash pad. It's simples. There is so much activity outside your cabin, what is the physical point of having a suite? Unless you are some billionaire who had his yacht impounded
I totaly agree. Cheap on the room and spend big (if you choose ) on the booze. If you are spending large on the cabin, you need to get a life dude, or you're already past it...@@k9killer221
have you visited the queen mary docked in long beach yet? it’s probably an hour and a half from where i am but i loved going before the pandemic just to explore & take in the history and was so overjoyed when i found out it reopened & wasn’t sold for scrap like people were speculating ❤
Great review! I did a transatlantic on the QM2 back in 2005 when the ship was almost new. I notice the cabins and most of the public areas are updated, bathroom in cabin looks the same as back then 🙂
May I just say, that as a semi-retired vampire, your channel is a godsend. Even a few hundred years ago, this kind of practical travel advice was, for the most part, inaccessible. And, as always, your choice of Chanel Type O is simply enchanting. Toodles.
I give you credit. There is no way I mean no way I think I could stay in a inside cabin. I love to sit out on the balcony and enjoy the water. But I love to cruise like you do.
Here in Australia it's a washing machine for washing clothes, a clothes dryer for drying them or a clothes line for hanging them out in the sun to dry. First time in ages that we are different to the UK Emma. Great cabin by the way ❤❤
I sailed on The Freedom of the Seas last weekend in an inside room. It's only the third time I've had an inside room and I really didn't like it. The room was so small, I had to get into the bed by crawling onto the end because there wasn't enough room to walk on the sides of the bed. There was a box on the ceiling right above the bed that sounded like a wind tunnel and the bed was so hard it hurt my hips. Other than that, the room was dated, but nice and cozy. The shower was great and my room steward was so great! This is a very old ship, but I loved the opulence.
We did the crossing our first time in an inside cabin and it was just wonderful and about half the cost of a business class plane ticket to London. We arrived rested and already done with jet lag. Next time we'll do a balcony but any place on Queen Mary 2 is wonderful.
Emma ...i just love your channel and content....Im not interested in cruising for myself .. but i thoughly enjoy watching your trips abroad and reviews on these magnificent ships ....i also love your sense humour and the light hearted way you present your content...i always get a wee giggle too
We paid extra for a balcony cabin but we were going on a trip to New York and back. We saw a whale from the balcony coming back and it was worth it just for that. We love the QM2, we made so many happy memories.
We also went inside and on similar cruise, it’s amazing value and cream teas are to die for. As for gratuities you can go to reception and ask for them not to be included but to pay them yourselves when and where you want
There are actually 3 types of balcony cabins on that ship, the one your parents had is called a sheltered balcony, there are also standard balcony where the balcony is open to the elements and obstructed view cabins which have a lifeboat obstructing your view of the sea. There are also 2 levels of ticket for each cabin the standard is the one I think you had but there is also a 'club' level that includes a lot of extras like preferential reservations in the restaurants, free drinks, a prepaid card with money to cover gratuities, also free transfers to and from the ship which can be useful. They also do packages of extras like free mini bar and that kind of thing but I think you have to arrange that kind of thing with Cunard after booking, it's quite flexible but most people don't realise many of these extras can be arranged. For a short cruise the smaller cabins are ideal but for something like a transatlantic crossing I would say getting a balcony is worth it though it is quite a price hike. Depends if you are the kind of person who likes to be out and about on the ship or spend more time in the cabin.
You don’t need windows if you there to enjoy yourself! Although having a balcony can be pleasurable, especially if there are no stops, such as on the NY-London on the QEII. I can imagine having tea or a cocktail while enjoying the view.
We did inside cabin on the QM transatlantic and then inside cabin on the QE to Alaska. I have no complaints and dont want to spend more money on a view when I can go on deck whenever I want or save the money for shore excursions! Both are fabulous ships.
Interested in quirky cabins? Here's some more:
This cabin faces INSIDE the ship: ua-cam.com/video/bSNLLGZgtpw/v-deo.htmlsi=EzwaGOBUqNWKLMe6
This cabin faces backwards: ua-cam.com/video/ZxpdsnA80z4/v-deo.htmlsi=5sSzxscMjBcTs2I7
This bathroom has a glass wall! ua-cam.com/video/EvhmoI-OJa8/v-deo.htmlsi=aGuAgP3olYhaAgH-
Hey Emma. It’s actually a lovely cabin. Like the color scheme and agree with you; don’t need a sofa and prefer a bigger bathroom/shower. Don’t mind being close to the elevator at all. Would pay the extra $125 for a balcony. Thanks for sharing.
We call those cabins an inside inside cabin. We like inside cabins because they are nice and dark, like a cosy cave. Helps us rest better and have a better experience.
BRITISHISM: I get teased by everyone for saying WASH with an "R" as in waRsh, who knew, I have a British accent?
Hello Emma, do ships have wheelchair accessible rooms? It feels like it might not be terribly safe being on wheels on the rolling sea, but you tell me if you ever see it?
Did the cabin doors open to the inside or to the outside?
From a historical perspective, I'm thrilled the Cunard keeps the Queen Mary name. My grandfather was a WWII veteran and brought home from the war on the Queen Mary in 1945. Many forget the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary transported troops during WWII. In an age when history is forgotten or overlooked, I think it's wonderful the heritage is remembered and honored.
Yes! Cunard are the best at that. ❤️
The Queen Mary in Long Beach? I love the place.
@@erikh9991 Yes!!!
they used most cruise ship for transporting troops during the war. The SS Arcadia was also used.
My father sailed to England in 1943 and back to NYC in 1945. He was on the Queen Mary for one trip and the Queen Elizabeth for the other. But he couldn’t remember which one.
I spent eight years working on a ship, bunk beds, roommate, inside cabin. Went to 100 countries, and made it to Easter Island, Antarctica, and traversed the Northwest Passage onboard Crystal Cruises. I loved my cozy little upper bunk.
Did you see whales?
@@earthsucks9555 Had great sightings in Maui, Cabo San Lucas, and the best was off the coast of Ecuador.
I once sailed on an ocean liner as a 14 year old, the SS United States.... it was an amazing ship, and yes, a long time ago. It was fast, comfortable, wonderful food and service, quite luxurious and a great experience. Our beagle traveled with us [we were moving to France, Dad was military, assigned to NATO] and was in the kennel [about a half dozen dogs were boarded in the kennel if I recall correctly], so we were encouraged to visit with him daily, taking him for walks on the designated kennel walkway. There were also other teens making the journey, so we had a lot of fun. It's so sad what happened to that ship in its later life. It was once the pride of the American maritime industry . Because we were a family of 4, we had a what I'm sure would have been called a junior suite today. There was a balcony, which I loved. I'd call for room service breakfast and eat it out there. Had my first croissant and cup of milky coffee with lots of sugar.
We have done several Transatlantics on QM2, in those very cheap cabins, in oceanviews and sometimes in balcony cabins. Always a great time!
Actually we love it in the winter months when the sea is rough, waves are high and this wonderful ship can really show how it can master the oceans.
Lovely!!!
Hopefully we will be doing another TA in 2024.
Sounds amazing! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Hi Emma. I know you said you don't really pay attention to subscriber count, but according to Gary Bembridge at Tips for Travellers' unofficial list, you are now the #2 cruise-focused website on UA-cam. 🙂 Congratulations for a 275K subscriber milestone that you don't care about. 🤣
Thank you! 😁❤️
Congratulations ❤❤
I agree. You two are my favorite cruisies.
You all are forcing me to subscribe. Damn you.
@@EmmaCruises Congratulations. You deserve to be in the top.
I think the extra charge for a balcony cabin is worth it. I like being out in the fresh air, even if the weather is not ideal.
Inside rooms are fine. Only in there to sleep, cleanup. Usually out up on deck anyway. Especially on a cruise where there is actually something to look at, e.g. Alaska.
I would pay extra to have no window. Cant sleep well if even a bit of sunlight comes into the room@@UK4US2023
Agreed, absolutely loved having a balcony the one time I ever did. It's a nice way to enjoy the weather and setting while retaining some solitude. Much more peaceful than the pool deck.
I’ve been on the Queen Mary 2 six times in my life and always had a balcony with a sliding door, love the ship, the food and the drinks but not crazy about the snobby English.!
Inside cabins are excellent if the occupiers get out and enjoy the decks and facilities. Great for sleeping.
Yeah and the beer must flow on a ferry or liner and I can't imagine waking up with a hangover and staring out at the endless blue vastness of the ocean x.x
For all of the entertainment and dining choices, there is nothing better than standing at the front of the ship, feeling the sea wind and spray and silence. So therapeutic.
I have many times stayed in the cheapest cabin many times when I first started cruising. I'm not in the room enough to have a window, but now only book cabins with a window or balcony. Very nicely done thanks
I concur with your assessment. I've only booked inside cabins. I've been on 3 transatlantic crossings and find the QM2 to be stable, jet lag free way to get back and forth to Europe. I enjoy the room service for breakfast but have used it once early in the morning. Thank you for all your postings. You do a wonderful job and I enjoy your cheerful attitude!
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
@@EmmaCruises Emma, why don't you or other bloggers ever talk about Oceanview cabins? They are often a reasonably priced alternative, with full balconies. With QM2's Transatlantic crossings, often they are the best cabins, in that it is too cold for out door space living.
@@EmmaCruises Emma, I think QM2 also has Inside Prominade View cabins.
@@bodyloverz30 oceanview cabins don't have balconies, just a window.
@@sallyannc3176 Which make them a great option, when you don't want to spend $$+ on balconies.
Just got off a 10 day cruise on the QM2...wat a ship...and the crew were excellent...we are booked to do 2 more on her next year...loved her
First, it's always nice watching your videos. My wife is now insisting on an balcony cabin. We were cruising with inside cabins just to be frugal but we found we couldn't get up in the morning as we didn't know what time it was and we enjoyed sleeping a bit too much. I like your daylight alarm clock for this purpose.
Great video Emma. I took a 7 night transatlantic crossing with my wife in July. We splurged for the Princess Grille suite, and it was the greatest trip I have ever been on in my life. I already very much miss the ship. Cheers.
Ooo sounds incredible! ❤️
I started taking the Queen Mary 2 back and forth from the UK instead of flying for some reason that inside cabin is cheaper internal business class ticket. This past Christmas 2023 when I was returning from the UK I believe it was one of the first crossings since it's been overhauled and I have to say the cabins look amazing inside now they're updated no scuffs anywhere the ship smelled like it was a brand new ship it looked amazing from the public areas to the cabin and even down on the bottom deck where the crew stays it was amazing.
I have worked customer service related jobs for my entire life. I appreciate the fact with the double beds error you blamed the ocean liner versus the staff that help you.
I also worked in customer service for many years, it is refreshing and quite nice to hear someone appreciate the hard work that goes into making this great ship run son smoothly.
Screw ups like this are mostly down to staff being give incorrect information but the way it was sorted out here with no drama speaks volumes about the focus on service and passenger satisfaction on this ship. In my experience, although the stewards are busy they are always willing to help and nothing seems to be too much trouble for them.
We've done eight transatlantic crossings on QM2, in flat calm and hurricane-force storms and she just plows through the waves. Watching your video left me with pangs of nostalgia for the ship. We've also done cruises on Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth which are OK but once you've been on QM2 nothing else compares.
The Queen Mary is simply wonderful. I have sailed twice and, each time in one of the Grills, which is a very different experience, but for the price you paid to include nice comfortable accommodations, all food, entertainment, classes and lectures, afternoon teas, ball room dancing etc, for a bit over $100 a day, that is a spectacular deal. My wife and I were talking last night about taking another transatlantic cruise.
My late Mom went back and forth between Europe and the USA a few times in the 1950s, usually on liners, sometimes in upper class cabins when she’d saved up enough money. The SS United States, now rotting away In Philadelphia, was her favorite. She dined at the Captain’s table at least one night.
Incredible! ❤️
Wow, this is ironic, my wife and I JUST disembarked the QM2 a few days ago! It was our honeymoon and her first cruise. The QM2 was a bucket list cruise ship for me, so I was super thrilled to be on it. We loved it!
So glad you loved it 😀👍🏼❤️
It's not a cruise ship
I'm pretty easy to please when it come to a room. Good temperature, clean, comfortable bed, and good shower pressure, and I'm happy. I thought the cabin looked to be reasonable size. I don't think many people take a cruise to be mostly in their cabin. I mean you've got a whole ship to explore, enjoy, and look at the sea. Some time I'd like to do a Transatlantic sailing on a true ocean liner, and now I know what to expect.
Yesss 😁🙌
I had that same room on a cruise QM2 where I moved my cat from Europe to the US. I was only in there to sleep, the room was great. The cat is flat nosed and couldn't fly, this was the only way to move him.. Totally worth it and stress free and fun for me too. Shout out to the pet kennels masters. They are awesome.
Iv'e been to Europe and back numerous times ion the QM2. Always get an inside cabin.They are very comfortable and affordable. I dont miss a window.
We adore the QM2 and will be taking our 4th crossing soon. We love a cozy interior and from a cost perspective much more pleasant than flying over the Atlantic.
Have the best time ever!!!! 😀❤️
As a guy who's never been on a cruise ship (forget an ocean liner) I think the costs are RIDICULOUSLY cheap for a 3 day mini vacation
I would definitely pay the extra for a balcony cabin. I love sitting for hours on the balcony looking at the sea 😊
I would pay extra for an exterior cabin. When you compare the prices with both hotel rooms and airfare, it is a really good deal, I think. Yes, it's 3 days as opposed to 8 hours, but you're on vacation anyway, and it gives one a chance to catch up on one's reading.😊
So good! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
If you try a balcony cabin on Atlantic in Mid winter Jan-March complete waste money stand outside and prepare to be windswept. Best value inside or porthole cabin
Congratulations, Emma, on a very accurate account of QM2, my favourite ship in the world. I sail on Cunard 3x year ~ and would do more if I could. You are spot on about the inside cabins ~ they are terrific and nothing to complain about. Queen Anne's maiden voyage is May 3/24 and I cannot wait to take a peek. I am eternally grateful to the crews on Cunard ships ~ they are LOVELY.
As a person with a more historical inclination and someone who finds the floating hotels ugly, the QM2 might be the only ship I'll ever be on.
And even then it'd only be for a transatlantic
Excited to do a trans-Atlantic crossing in June as a grand finale to our trip to Germany and the UK. Unfortunately that means packing a lot more as I wasn't intending to travel with various suits, dress shoes, etc. Shall be interesting! Thanks for the great video!
Okay let's try again as my first post has vanished...QM2 is a gorgeous, classical ship that is a great seaboat, has great service and great food too. I recommend doing a full Transatlantic in December so you can see her decorated for Christmas - she is spectacular.
Sounds good! 😁🥳
That sounds good we are going southampton to new york 15th december!
Reminds me of the trips that my family took in 1963 and 1965 between New Zealand and Holland. (yes, I was young - 5 and 7, but I retain a wealth of memories!
For an inside cabin it looked quite posh. but for the extra 100 quid, I'd take the balcony view cabin. all in all, it looked a very good value indeed, no petulant children about.
My wife and I got engaged on the Queen Mary in Long Beach. My high school also had our Senior Prom there and our 10 year high school reunion. I love to see the name still being used. We also, love cruises and just got back from an Alaskan cruise.
Awhhh! ❤️
I would pay the extra for the balcony. I enjoy sitting and relaxing on the balcony while reading a book or listening to music. I did a ocean view room one time on a shorter cruise with very limited balcony rooms and was miserable.
Yes, balcony! I’m claustrophobic, want the extra room, fresh air, wine before dinner, and sunrise & sunset pictures! 🚢🚢🚢
I always try to get a sideways when it's an inside, Oceanview. Really helps with the motion sickness to have your head/feet are in a forward/aft direction. I had one on Prima and in rough seas it was relaxing, even with the waves. 🙂
Yesss!!! I’d love that. 😀👍🏼
I would pay extra for a balcony, depending on how much extra since I like having a place to retreat to, but I can also smell the sea air because sometimes if you’re out where there’s many people and you’re a semi introvert, you need a place to retreat to.
Love your channel Emma! I have never even been on a cruise but I can’t to stop watching your videos 😂 you’re so down to earth and genuine it makes the videos so nice to watch! You may have convinced me to try cruising! (also I’m an Aussie with a British grandparent so I love hearing which Britishisms match us and which ones don’t ❤)
I've had trouble sleeping and sunrise clocks are amazing. I have one that allows me to plug a regular lamp into and it brings the light up or down on a timer, gradually lowering the light as I fall asleep, similar to sunset, and gradually increasing the light by my bed, similar to sunrise. Since using it, I wake up more gently before my radio alarm turns on.
Yeah! 😀❤️
you're getting better and better with your reviews Emma 😊 I like it very much 😊
Thanks so much! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
My wife and I love your videos. Great narration with a wonderful British accent - all done by an incredibly nice person. Excellent job!
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
Love watching your adventures Emma. I’m 62 and never been on a cruise xx
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Oh my gosh! Sorry, but you have not lived until you spend a week on the QM2. We took our first cruise at just about your age, a cheap Princess cruise to Alaska. My wife and I "knew you would not enjoy the cruise", but the only way to see Alaska. Boy, were we wrong! When we complete our currently booked trips, we will be "platinum on both Princess and Cunard.
We've never been on a cruise. This one is different. We loved the presentation, and now we may consider a voyage on QM2. Thank you, Emma.
I love the QM2 it is my favourite ship. It always feels luxurious. I don't think I could ever do an inside cabin again. We did it once and hated it. We had a protected balcony cabin on our first cruise on the QM2 and we thought it was great. It was November and very mild and I don't normally like sitting on the glass balconies because I don't like heights but that balcony was great and very cosy we were out there all the time.
We have crossed on QM2 twice, in inside cabins, and loved it. So many interesting displays, good shows & lectures, and the Golden Lion pub was a fav place to eat.
I was just on the Queen Mary 2 less than a week ago! On the transatlantic crossing! It was great! :) in the sheltered balcony cabin I loved it. I wouldn't get a different cabin even if I had all the money to spend. Great review! :)
Love it! I think I'd like that cabin. Hope you enjoyed the crossing!! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
@lemursandpies, I was on that crossing as well! I loved it!
My only concern with an inside cabin is what would happen if your ship had a medical outbreak and hundreds of people were sick and everyone was quarantined. I’d hate being stuck inside for days. When I have a balcony I can get some fresh air every day. An employee of mine got stuck in such a situation in Florida maybe 20 years ago. The ship wasn’t even allowed to disembark because they didn’t want illness being spread. Sailings are sometimes extended also because of hurricanes so I avoid cruising the Caribbean during that season anyway. It’s my least favorite place to cruise anyway because it’s all pretty much the same each cruise.
With Baltimore being closed now I understand they are sailing more out of Norfolk VA USA and that’s enticing to me. Only a few hours away by car, that would be a treat!
Hi Emma, I love your viedos and tips. Personally I would be paying the extra for a balcony. I LOVE the sea. We copped a double cyclone in 2017 and, even though they made us stay inside the whole time and balconies were locked, we still watched the rough seas and loved it. I also love the fresh air. Just my own personal opinion. In saying that, if I was with someone who said they want an iside cabin, I would go along with it as my very first cruise in 1978 was an inside 6 berth cabin with our parents and 4 kids. We didnt notice no window, except for it being PICTH BLACK INSIDE. No light snuck in at all.
Firstly - 👏🏻well done! A most impressive review.
Your daylight alarm clock/light is brilliant. I can see why it is your must have when inside cabin sailing. I look forward to some of your other reviews as I am now a subscriber. One critique however, before I disembark (seen what did there😂). We must meet your mum, dad and brother. Happy sailing ✌️
I probably wouldn't spend the extra on the balcony myself. I think the inside is nice enough. On my next cruise, I actually booked a solo cabin with Norwegian, so I'm looking forward to that. They're itty-bitty cabins, but just the right price.
The inside cabins, (not the solo cabins) on NCL's newer ships, are so claustrophobic, it's unconscionable!
Thank you for the fun report. An inside cabin is a great way to save money. Tip: on most ships, the empty cases will fit under the bed(s).
Thank you! 😁❤️
Yes, they do fit under the beds in Cunard ships.
Thank you! I didn’t even know that a daylight alarm clock was a thing that existed, but it was definitely something that I needed in my life. I’ve just ordered one and I expect that getting up at a quarter to six for work will be much more pleasant.
Woohoo! It’s magic. 😀👏🏼
I need one! I have a dark bedroom and I just don't get up early anymore.
Though I always get a balcony, inside rooms are great imo. Balconies are perfect for when arriving at a destination. I always plan my room, by the side the ship's views are the best. A really good agent can help with this. Also an agent can specify which balconies have no obstructions. But look, Panama canal, Alaska, Greek Islands, so many places you really want to be outside on deck. Long winded, sorry, but my point is, if you plan on staying in your room all day, what are you doing on a cruise lol? BTW, I crossed the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2 and I found it to be a lovely ship.
Hoping to do a transatlantic on her next year.
That's the dreaaaam! I'll do it one day I'm sure. Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Emma, thanks for the thorough review of the QM2 ocean liner. I was able to spend about a week on board the Queen Mary when it was moored at the dock in Long Beach. I was attending an audio conference for sound engineers. Even though it was out of date and not properly maintained, I still was able to understand what it was like to travel aboard a top tier ocean liner. I had a dream once to take a trip aboard the QM2 to England and travel back on the Concorde but never had the chance when the Concorde was taken out of service.
1st omg. I am a big fan and i booked a cruise on my birthday in may on princess to the norwegian fjords
Woohoo! Thats so awesome. The fjords are the BEST! Have a great time. Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
If I had the money, i would pay extra for the balcony, but the inside cabin would be better than staying home! When I eventually get to Los Angeles, I hope the stay on the old Queen Mary. I gather that it has now re-opened! Thank you for the video!
I went on a cruise this past July and booked an inside. Cheaper room and the same cruise as the suites. I wanted more money for the vacation. My friend fell and wrecked her knee two days before and I had it to myself😢. But other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.
You were granted a great inside cabin for your "Saver Fare!" I made four transatlantic crossings in 2017 and 2018, all in inside cabins; one on deck 5, the other three on deck 6, all cabins that I chose after closely studying the deck plan. I'm more inclined to choose my cabin due to not wanting to be too far forward, nor on a very high deck...which is why I will never book a Britannia Club cabin on the QM2. I can also recommend booking an obstructed balcony cabin on the Queen Elizabeth (QE); I also chose that cabin for a 5-night "Big Band Cruise," which I sandwiched in between my eastbound and westbound crossings in August 2017. That said, I really studied the QE deck plan to book a cabin with less of an obstruction than others in my price range. I'm looking closely at the 2026 crossings and cruises that have just been released for booking, just have to decide which cruises or crossings to book!
I've worked in the hospitality industry for decades (both land and sea). What I find absurd, is younger people always booking the cheapest rate in an older venue and complaining that it looks "dated". Can't you possibly get past that and say it looks "classic" or "period correct" ? Why, does everything have to be remodeled every other year to reflect the latest taste? Aren't you the generation that cries about being "sustainable" and "ecologically responsible"? How much waste and materials do you think it takes to make everything "shiny and new" every other year to suit the "latest craze" ??? Clean, well maintained and comfortable are a more important and sustainable option, in my opinion.
So you're blaming an entire generation for allegedly having two opposing views at the same time? Every social group is made up of individuals, and some of those individuals will complain about a lack of style and some will complain about a lack of sustainability. Doesn't it cross your mind that those two kind of people are not the same people?
@@laaaliiiluuu Oh..JSTFUYLAH
You are right
Thanks for the great post! I have not seen you pop up in my feed in a long time and I just want to say your video seems so much more polished now and you seem so much more relaxed and smooth. Lovely to see you again.
Thanks so much! I share a video every couple weeks or every week so please check out the ones you’ve missed 😀❤️👍🏼
Must have a balcony....need the fresh air...lol love sitting out there .
Mostly wind and rain on your face in this one! ha ha. Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I would definitely pay the extra $$ for the balcony cabin!
Such another great review Emma you describe everything so well in such beautiful detail love it 👻🍁🍃🍂🍃👻🍁🍃💛🎃
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
Had an inside cabin on the MV Keran in 1984 travelling from the Ascension Islands to the Falklands. What fun going through the Roaring Forties living up to their name.
never been on a cruise, and don't plan on going on one in the near future but i love your reviews/videos. just subscribed 😊
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
Love the videos Emma. Just a note regarding taking toiletries home. It should be remembered that because guests pay for it, it doesn't suddenly change ownership. Guests are paying for the use of the products offered. You would not believe what guests will try to pack into their suitcase using this premise.
Your reviews are outstanding. Interesting that you mentioned that this was a February cruise and you just posted it in October.
Great observation. I think this is not a recent cruise, but I enjoyed the video anyway.
I laughed a bit when you talked about the electric kettle. I'm a Yank and can't live without one. I've been corrupted by my travels. 😂
Great write up as well. I'm going to look into spending some time traveling this way.
I think there are two basic sets of people. One's who will spend most of their time in their cabin, and those who will not. For the latter, they just need a decent bed and bathroom and don't care about private balconies etc; for the former, they need an equivalent to a full hotel suite. There's no easy answer. I have the financial resources to afford pretty much anything, but I would not pay for an elaborate suite because I know I would be out of the cabin 70% of the time anyway.
Just use your room as a nautical crash pad. It's simples. There is so much activity outside your cabin, what is the physical point of having a suite? Unless you are some billionaire who had his yacht impounded
I totaly agree. Cheap on the room and spend big (if you choose ) on the booze. If you are spending large on the cabin, you need to get a life dude, or you're already past it...@@k9killer221
Yes I prefer a balcony. I love sitting or standing out there before bed every night. During the day when having free time to myself.
have you visited the queen mary docked in long beach yet? it’s probably an hour and a half from where i am but i loved going before the pandemic just to explore & take in the history and was so overjoyed when i found out it reopened & wasn’t sold for scrap like people were speculating ❤
I have! Long before my channel although I do have a video about it if you check out my page from last year 😀❤️
@@EmmaCruisesI find it cool that after long beach took it over they also blue pillows to there beds just like Cunard
Great review!
I did a transatlantic on the QM2 back in 2005 when the ship was almost new.
I notice the cabins and most of the public areas are updated, bathroom in cabin looks the same as back then 🙂
I’d pay an extra 100 quid for a balcony cabin, no question about it!
The inside cabins are great for napping . .love them.
I didn’t recognise you with long hair 😅
Ha ha, not that much longer!! 😂😅
My husband and I just love your channel and are using your reviews to plan our very first cruise ! Thanks for your honest reviews!
Thank you! 😁❤️
May I just say, that as a semi-retired vampire, your channel is a godsend. Even a few hundred years ago, this kind of practical travel advice was, for the most part, inaccessible.
And, as always, your choice of Chanel Type O is simply enchanting. Toodles.
I give you credit. There is no way I mean no way I think I could stay in a inside cabin. I love to sit out on the balcony and enjoy the water. But I love to cruise like you do.
There is nothing more English than planning ahead regarding emergency tea and biscuits!
Ive never cruised but your videos are very informative and helpful as a review so.people could use them to help them choose how they cruise.
Well done
I need to have some sort of window. An inside cabin feels like a tomb to me.
I'm like Emma and quite mean . Just imagine your inside cabin is during the winter and you've drawn the curtains ! Works a treat .
😂😂
Here in Australia it's a washing machine for washing clothes, a clothes dryer for drying them or a clothes line for hanging them out in the sun to dry. First time in ages that we are different to the UK Emma. Great cabin by the way ❤❤
Haha!! Yeah usually we agree! 🤣🤣
You let your clothing DIE in the sun? Barbaric!
@@mitchellsmith4690 hehe sorry a typo there, it was meant to say dry. ive corrected my mistake :) no clothes dying here in australia hehe
I sailed on The Freedom of the Seas last weekend in an inside room. It's only the third time I've had an inside room and I really didn't like it. The room was so small, I had to get into the bed by crawling onto the end because there wasn't enough room to walk on the sides of the bed. There was a box on the ceiling right above the bed that sounded like a wind tunnel and the bed was so hard it hurt my hips. Other than that, the room was dated, but nice and cozy. The shower was great and my room steward was so great! This is a very old ship, but I loved the opulence.
Taking a trans-Atlantic crossing on the QM2 is very much on my bucket list.
We did the crossing our first time in an inside cabin and it was just wonderful and about half the cost of a business class plane ticket to London. We arrived rested and already done with jet lag. Next time we'll do a balcony but any place on Queen Mary 2 is wonderful.
New to the channel. Emma, you're a delight to watch and listen too. You covered all the important stuff.
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
Emma ...i just love your channel and content....Im not interested in cruising for myself .. but i thoughly enjoy watching your trips abroad and reviews on these magnificent ships ....i also love your sense humour and the light hearted way you present your content...i always get a wee giggle too
Thanks so much 🥹❤️
We paid extra for a balcony cabin but we were going on a trip to New York and back. We saw a whale from the balcony coming back and it was worth it just for that. We love the QM2, we made so many happy memories.
I usually get an inside cabin but only $100 to upgrade? You betcha!!!!
Love your llama dress 😊
Thank you! 😁❤️
We also went inside and on similar cruise, it’s amazing value and cream teas are to die for. As for gratuities you can go to reception and ask for them not to be included but to pay them yourselves when and where you want
A Cunard crossing is my bucket list trip. I'll definitely pay the absolute most I can afford when the time comes
There are actually 3 types of balcony cabins on that ship, the one your parents had is called a sheltered balcony, there are also standard balcony where the balcony is open to the elements and obstructed view cabins which have a lifeboat obstructing your view of the sea. There are also 2 levels of ticket for each cabin the standard is the one I think you had but there is also a 'club' level that includes a lot of extras like preferential reservations in the restaurants, free drinks, a prepaid card with money to cover gratuities, also free transfers to and from the ship which can be useful. They also do packages of extras like free mini bar and that kind of thing but I think you have to arrange that kind of thing with Cunard after booking, it's quite flexible but most people don't realise many of these extras can be arranged. For a short cruise the smaller cabins are ideal but for something like a transatlantic crossing I would say getting a balcony is worth it though it is quite a price hike. Depends if you are the kind of person who likes to be out and about on the ship or spend more time in the cabin.
I've done both. Balcony if there is something to see -- i.e. Alaska -- or the weather is warm.
You don’t need windows if you there to enjoy yourself! Although having a balcony can be pleasurable, especially if there are no stops, such as on the NY-London on the QEII. I can imagine having tea or a cocktail while enjoying the view.
The little fire hydrant is cute! Love this video! Thanks for showing us!
No jetlag!
We did inside cabin on the QM transatlantic and then inside cabin on the QE to Alaska. I have no complaints and dont want to spend more money on a view when I can go on deck whenever I want or save the money for shore excursions! Both are fabulous ships.
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼