When I was 28 (decades ago😊) I was going to Europe with only a backpack for 2 months. Since I was afraid of flying after a couple of scares, I decided I would have to take a “boat” to get there. It was 1986 & I learned about the QE II. Sounded fancy but was 5 days rather than others that were longer. So off I go with my backpack, a couple of dresses & one pair of nice shoes rolled up in it. It’s one of the best memories of my life but for different reasons. Had never been on a ship so everything was new. At that age I looked for a bar first. I met Steve the bartender as well as Jonathan who was a steward. I learned that I could order steak & lobster in my room rather than having to eat with all the “old people” at dinner and other tips. Also found out that my bar tab was ridiculously low. God love em. Nothing inappropriate with those guys. Learned about their families, kids etc. The best part was when Jonathan took me to “The Pig”. This was the club on the low level that was for the crew. Whenever I watch Titanic I think of The Pig. That’s when Rose went to the party below. It was like that. All of the crew were so nice and didn’t look down on me because I wasn’t fancy, just afraid to fly. Jonathan even took me to St Paul’s Cathedral (he had some shore leave when I got to London). Got to see them both again on the crossing home. The ship even stored the dresses & shoes for me so I’d have more room in my backpack for the trip!
been to the 'Pig' myself. Crew quarters on the QE2 were not fancy, not like on a cruise ship. Waiters in Tables of the World dining (tourist class) were British merchant seamen, bad teeth and tattoos, but were friendly and worked hard, their supervisors were 'officers' and full of themselves. This was definitely a 'class' ship. first class ate at the 'queen's grill' and had butlers to serve them. But a great trip. No one checked but I swam in the first class pool inside, outside pools were closed.
@Barbarian 1967 as a steamship the QE2 could do about 34 knots, later reengined with diesel electric drive it could do more like 38 knots. That's really fast for any ship. A big fault of the liner United States that could go even faster was the fuel consumption and it had four engine rooms so it require a very large engine crew, in the hundreds. Without a big subsidy it couldn't make enough to cover costs.
I did a transatlantic crossing (NYC to Southampton) on QM2 in 2016. It was a bucket list dream, and well worth every penny. It’s probably the closest one will ever get to replicating the North Atlantic crossing days of the 1930s and before. She’s such an incredible ship! First class from top to bottom. She’s a true ocean liner in the tradition of the Titanic, Lusitania and Ile de France. A mere “cruise ship” she is not! I highly recommend a transatlantic crossing on this gorgeous ship if you ever get the chance!
Just booked for my second crossing on the QM2 - Standing on the top deck of the QM2 sailing out of New York whilst looking at the Manhattan sky line has to be one of the greatest experiences.
@@romeo9017 I did a dinner cruise out of Port Washington Ny once and we went out and circled the Statue of Liberty. It was pretty cool but I was so drunk I kind of forget a lot of it. Lol
I spent 3 years working on all 3 Queens in the Queens Room Orchestra. We were the band that would give the regular bands a 1-2 month break and we'd hop from one ship to the next doing that all year round. I bet I've been on each ship 5+ times. Great video. Fun to see all those areas I've spent so much time in and made so many memories with guests!
I’m curious...we do ballroom dancing and love to dance every night on our cruises. The Queens Room looks amazing in size. Is there dancing every night in there? Any other dancing venues? Thanks! 🕺🏼😉💃🏻
I'm a musician and wondered what it was like for you playing in that band. What were the pros and cons of that gig? Was the money good? How did you get hired? Was there an audition? What styles of music did u have to play? Thanks!
I was fortunate enough to be in my teens and twenties during the "50's and "60's. We traveled on the Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mary, the United States, the Michael Angelo, the Hanseatic, the Constitution, and various Canadian steamers out of Montreal. I never regretted a single trip.
How did the Constitution stack against the other liners? I am curious, since I consider myself fortunate to have been a passenger aboard her sister Independence.
I also am old enough to have traveled on some of the liners that you have. Although SS United States did not have the magnificent wood interior of some of her contemporaries, she was my favorite. We're you ever able to sail aboard SS France? I remember eating in the first class dining room as a young boy in an ill fitting tuxedo. The food was excellent but I couldn't get out of that dining room fast enough!
Dear Gary, my wife and I will be on the QM2 for the 13 day cruise to the caribbean. We will be mid ship in Queen's grill. As you suggested. This will be our fifty wedding anniversary. It was 49 nine years since our last cruise on the Oceanic. Going on the QM2 is my bucket list. I have over the last few months watched every video you have. Thank you very much. By the way, since we booked very early, our cruise agent made changes to the cost everytime the price went down for our Queen's suite or offered aspecial discount.They made changes to location since Ifirst wanted to be close to the dining area. I remembered we shouldn't be at the back. We can walk just fine from mid ship and lose any extra pounds that we may encounter during our cruise. Big ha ha! Also we are on the same deck as the Commodore club. Once again, thanks for all your videos. Oh yes Cunard said they will have a special recognition at the first formal get together for our 50th. Signed, another GARY.
Wonderful, its good to know the QE2 still upholds tradition..truly the LAST passenger liner. My father was in diplomatic corps (US foreign svc). We travelled regularly on the SS United States, on the north atlantic track, NYC to LeHarve,always 1st. Although she was laid up in 1969,she still holds the record (Blue Ribband) for fastest liner crossing,ever...Well remember leaving NYC, throwing streamers, over the side, (provided)complimentary bottle of champagne in our cabins... Interesting that the QE2 still holds the semi,and semi formal dress codes in 1st. Jacket and tie were mandatory for breakfast,and lunch, in the US dining salon. Formal for evening meals. I was but a young teen then,and struck up a conversation with an elderly couple in the lounge. As we were getting ready to embark at LeHarve,to pick up the boat train to Paris, I asked if they were doing the same. 'Oh no" ,the wife replied.".We just stay on her,going back and forth.,spring,summer,and fall."...I never saw them anywhere without a martini ,or champagne close by. Always in formal....Interesting,at the end of the gilded era,those two were determined to ride it out to the very end of the sunset.,as long as they were on the ship,time stopped for them..........
We did the Silhouette maiden crossing. There were 2 storms to dodge. 35-foot seas. When the sharp urge to hurl hits the back of your throat, a bite of sour apple kills it faster than you can blink your eyes. It's amazing. The staff walked around with bowls of sliced green apples. Yeah I took ginger and dramamine too.
I've crossed the Atlantic 8 times round trip. On destroyers and frigates. I'd give anything to be able to cross each way on the QM2 and just sit in a deck chair and relax. Nice cigar and a glass of brandy after dinner and sit and look at the stars from the middle of the sea.
I did the trip mid summer, only time I spent on deck was on the last day, it was cold and windy, but there is plenty to do inside. Spent two years in the Coast Guard doing 'ocean stations' in these waters, most Navy frigates are big compared to CG cutters.
Re: Seasickness. I am terribly prone to seasickness, but I love cruising so I go to my doctor a week before I sail and ask for Transderm Scop (tm) patches. Put one behind your ear every three days, and no seasickness!
Sailed her through Hurricane Sandy. She sailed at 20 knots through it. Hardly noticed. The most magnificent trip of my lifetime. I will cross again some day. In my youth, I also sailed on Rotterdam and QE2. Crossing the Atlantic is a magical experience.
Nice covering of good points. On tipping I would say this: if you are going Grill/First class, tip in addition to the pre-added gratuities, for service on the spot. Also, try and find out which crew get the pre-adds, seek out those who do not, and tip them(maids and cleaners, for example, often get neglected. So do the chefs in both your favourite and assigned restaurant). Travel by ship is a luxury anyway these days. And First Class is luxury on top of luxury. Now I don’t mind that, especially for me. But if you can afford to cruise at that level, you can afford to tip. Spread it around!
I did a December crossing on the QE2. We had extremely rough weather and I remember a couple of days going to the main dining room with only maybe 10 or 20 guests. I luckily never get seasick but almost all the passengers did. Even though I have photos of waves almost as high as the ship, I never really felt unsafe and certainly we were never bored. I would love to go on the QM 2 but this time in summer 😄
After many cruises, my wife and I finally sailed on Cunard twice last year, once on the Queen Victoria and on the the Queen Mary II. We did not do a crossing in the Queen Mary, but did a 14-day cruise from New York to Quebec and back to New York, with three days docked in Quebec. I think the Queen Mary is a wonderful ship. We had 40 knot winds with 30 foot seas and never felt it. I loved the lectures and the planetarium, which is unique. Also, their library is fantastic. The ship is unusual, but that is part of the charm. As you suggest, I would highly recommend this ship, especially if you don’t mind getting dressed up in the evening, which adds to the experience. It is something you will not regret. I am just watching a lot of your videos and like what you present. With nearly 30 cruises, I am following you for some clues on how to get more variety into our cruises. Look forward to more.
Getting bored is your option. People watching is high on the list cuz humans are fun. You can even talk to them. The trick to this is to be a good conversationalist. It’s sometimes the questions you ask. If they’re phrased just right and with intelligence. Catches people off guard and you can go to a deeper level. I tend to think people are boring but it’s typically not true if you get past the exterior since we all have stories. Family job past etcetera. Cheers Bill
This is great. I've crossed twice on QM2 and Victoria (in tandem with the old QE2). The QM2 is a magnificent experience. I could do it over and over and over again. It's the only way to cross!
@@philippechevereau9818 Per passenger? FAR less than airlines. An Ocean Liner is far more CO2 efficient. (And CO2 isn't really an issue....cause its plant food.....)
When I was 9 my family sailed on the SSAmerica across the Atlantic from NewYork City to Cohb Ireland, Southhampton England, LeHarve France ending in Bremerhaven Germany. I'll never forget this fantastic adventure!
Yeah. I agree with Thomas. I wish they brought back the old fancy ships such as the Olympic Class Liners, my god they were the definition of charm and elegance. Anyways, any ideas? lol
We've done it four times so far, and our planned fifth was canceled only due to Covid. The QM2 is magnificent. There's simply nothing like it. Far more affordable than you think -- add up what you'd spend on 7 nights of hotel accommodation, all the gourmet meals you could possibly want, first-rate entertainment (Broadway, Juilliard, and West End caliber), fascinating lectures -- the QM2 costs less. And you'll arrive relaxed and un-jetlagged. Worth every penny.
It's cheap for a couple. Solo travelers have to pay for 2 people. I'm booking regardless because I want to travel on this ship so I'll just pay for two people.
Personally I prefer to fly to New York, spend a few days shopping and enjoying the sites then travel home on the QM2 just because that way there is no worry about excess baggage
It's actually quite exciting to travel on an ocean liner during a hurricane. I've done it while experiencing a hurricane in October 1987 onboard The QE2 while I worked onboard. During hurricanes I never felt sea sick when there were large movements but swells in the sea like in The Bay Of Biscay close to Portugal made me feel a little green.
After many crossings on the QE2 and QM2 I totally recommend the January crossing. It is usually the beginning of the world cruise for the US Passengers. The crowd is great fun, there are many regulars who love the winter crossing. It's an amazing travel experience. This year we left New York late in a snow storm, followed the storm slowly for 2 days, then went flat out to Southampton, arriving only 45 mins after scheduled arrival time. She is an amazing piece of engineering.
I agree! I did a November crossing, same direction. The other passengers were wonderful. The Atlantic Ocean was spectacular with some lively squalls , but for that ship it was no problem!
On my bucket list since I saw the original in NY Harbor as a small child. I’ve now crossed 5 times and it’s everything you say…. And more! I’ve brought my dogs on each crossing. They stay in the kennels on Deck 12 and that’s a great place too! Many of us dog owners spend a lot of our “luxury cruise” hanging out with our dogs in the kennels’ lounge. We bond and stay in touch. The Kennel Master Oliver and his staff are exceptional
He's spot on with that advice against sea-sickness. Get the lowest deck possible and closest to the middle of the ship. Whether it's swaying forward-backwards or side-to-side the middle of the ship moves the least. Ever since I figured that out, I've never needed to use Stugeron since then. They do work very well btw when you do need them.
My husband and I did this crossing in December 2016. It was a fantastic experience. And no, we never got bored. A couple of days into the crossing, the sea got wild and there were huge swells, with the ship riding them up, up, up and then crashing down over and over again. One night, we were moving back and forth in our bed and there was a drawer with a faulty latch opening and closing. So there is always a possibility of having a wild ride, even if the ship is designed for ocean crossings. The treatment that works best for me is the Transderm Scop patch (available by prescription from your doctor). I am very susceptible to motion sickness, and the patch made it so that I never felt sick even once the entire time. I also used them in Venice and had a great time enjoying the water taxis. A tip for the patch - you stick it behind your ear and leave it on for three days before replacing it with a new one. It helps to put a band-aid (plaster) over it to keep it there. I lost one in the shower once after only wearing it for one day. Also, it can mess with your vision (ability to focus properly), so reading may become difficult. For me, it's definitely worth that one annoyance!
I've always wanted to do a transatlantic cruise. It is an iconic trip. The stars have aligned. We have, at short notice, booked a transatlantic crossing aboard QM2 departing in five weeks. Can't wait... now I just have to get my tux and suit pressed....
I worked on QM2 for six months and loved it. Dress code is enforced in any of the dining rooms. Buffet not so much. There is a medical center and quite a large security dept. Very comfy ship to be on, specially if you have money. I have seen medical patients airlifted off of the ship if the issue is severe enough to warrant it. Overall great memories of working on the ship. Please remember to be nice to the staff, they are on the ship for quite a long stretch, work incredibly hard with little time off and do get badly treated by some passengers, which is a pretty awful thing to see and have to deal with. Do not take expensive jewelry with you as there are so many passengers that try to scam the cruise line into believing that their $5000. ring was stolen by the purser and or cabin staff (rare). Overall a great experience.
I have crossed the Atlantic twice by ship, both on the QE2, the predecessor to the QM2. Great. Best lecture was by a retired Detective Chief Inspector of Sctoland Yard, who went through a murder investigation, such like on TV, but in MUCH greater detail, as he had 5 or 6 days.
Very Good information, I've done the crossing 3 times in the last four years and can't wait for things to get back to normal to cross again. It's a great liner, and for me the bigger the seas the better, love to cross in late November.
I went alone to Europe the 2nd time in 1981 (my first trip was 3 months in 1969) when I was almost 31. It was a spectacular Cunard tour of Europe for about 3 weeks & then returning home to NY on the QE2. There were only 14 of us on the land tour. I met several people on the ship (a few I’m still in touch with) as well as my table’s sommelier, Mike. We remained friends for many years & every time the QE2 sailed to NYC, I’d meet with Mike. It was one of my very favorite trips. I’m hoping to take another voyage ..this time on the QM2. A voyage on one of the Cunard Queens is nothing like a cruise on one of those behemoth ships filled with thousands of people. It’s spectacular!!!!
Got back off a crossing from Southampton to nyc it was force 11 game but it was so steady I didn’t feel it it was a bit daunting when the captain said we are going over the final resting place of the titanic but ur advice was greate thx !
Getting claustrophobic on a three hour ferry, I just know I would panic on one of these crossings, but I really appriciate the effort and care that this ocean liner takes to provide for it's guests.
This brings back so many memories. My father ran the photography business on the United States. He was American, my mother was British. They had me but weren't married, a scandal in the early 60's. Because of this my mother had to go back to England every 6 months to renew her visa. I did so many Trans-Atlantic crossings on the Queen Elizabeth, United States and the original Queen Mary. I missed the first week of Second Grade to sail on the maiden voyage of the QE2. I remember watching my parents dress to the nines, me too but I had to eat at the children's table. I remember so many Atlantic storms. A way of life that doesn't exist. I'm so glad I was able to experience it!
Tips For Travellers It really was. That world no longer exists but it was fun to have been a small part of it as a child. I took a transatlantic sailing on the QE2 with my mother in 1985. This ship, that as a child had seemed so vast, was actually so small compared to today's mammoth cruise ships! I absolutely agree that if you can sail a transatlantic voyage don't hesitate, just do it. It's a throwback to a different time and place, even if it's only for a few days!
I crossed from Southampton in 2016 and I promise you that you will not get bored. Arriving in New York early morning you must go to the top of the ship as you go under a bridge just about hitting with the funnels and to see New York with the sun lighting New York was something I will never forget. We never wore tuxedo's on formal nights you can wear trousers blazer but you must have a tie on . Had a gal force 10 one night and my coffee never even had a ripple in it the ship was on its side just cutting through the waves like butter. There was six of us in our party and not one of us got sea sick. Don't die and not do a crossing it was the best holiday I've ever done. Put it on your bucket list.
QM2 is a fantastic ship. I traveled on the Queen Elizabeth 2 many times starting as a child on a 1970 transatlantic crossing. I preferred QE2's faster 5-day crossings but the facilities, cabins and dining options on QM2 can't be beat. On our 4 trips on the ship we booked a Queens Grill grade suite once and a Princess Grill grade mini suite three times. The service and food was always perfect. On the transatlantic crossings the dress is formal while at sea which means a suit or tux/dinner jacket for the men. If you don't feel like dressing up there are other less formal dining options onboard.
Hi. I worked on the QM2 as a Sommelier. for 5 years. It does not take 8 days to do a crossing. It is 5 days and we arrive either in Southampton or New York on the morning of the 6th day. We also don't do crossing in April anymore because of storms. They only do crossings from late May to September. It was an amazing ship to work on. I still miss it.
That was true when we started sailing on QM2 in 2005, but the ship now takes more time. If you look at the current schedule, you will see that the crossings are 7 nights, arriving the morning of the 8th day.
Great video and explanation as usual. Love your work. Please please explain the Queen Mary 2 balcony cabins, what is sheltered, obstructed etc so we can choose. We want to do the 14nights transatlantic so choosing a comfortable cabin with a balcony we can use is critical. Janet x
Looked at this video to reminisce about our QM2 crossing from Southampton to NYC in April 2010. We're still trying to get to editing together our videos, but thought yours was excellent. Back then, as our first ever cruise, we wanted to retrace (roughly) the voyage of the Titanic and to ponder the immigrants who first came to America by ship where they experienced seeing the Statue of Liberty as their first greeting to America, which it was for us, as well. We wanted a taste of the old world glamour and imagined all the famous people who had done the same voyage. We've been on many cruises since, but none were as emotional and enjoyable as this one. The lack of ports, and the demands of all that, made this a true voyage for us to relax and enjoy a unique adventure.
It's great they enforce the dress close, I wish all cruise lines followed the same ethic. If you don't want to dress up that is fine, but use the buffet.
@@musefan12345 If you want to wear a baseball cap on backwards, cargo shorts, flip flops, sport your tattoos and piercings... there are other ships to welcome you. A Cunard ship is not one of them.
@@wongfeihung6285 her comment clearly states that she wishes ALL ships followed the same ethic. Why would she care? She sounds like a complete snob. If she doesn’t like ships that don’t enforce strict dress codes, then don’t sail on them.
Thanks for your video, I just did QM2 eastward New York to Southampton. We went through gale force 10 and no sea sickness, we were on deck 4 between B and C aisles and we got a little swaying but the odd jolt. A little bored at times but you're right there are plenty of things to do. We got a room with balcony and sometimes we just sat in our room with the door open. After the 1st night we did double-back towards USA to get 2 passengers off in helicopter.
That was a fantastic voyage. Memories that kept my spirits up during pandemic. I’m booked on QM2 this fall from NYC to Quebec. Less chance of rough seas if seasickness is a problem .
Bless your heart, I hope you get to live your dream. When I was an adolescent in the 70's, I never thought I'd ever get to sail on a true ocean liner, and I did. You can make it happen, especially if you find a fellow traveller who can share the cost.
I don't know what your financial circumstances are but it's quite well priced me and my wife did a balcony cabin just less than £4000. I am sure you can do an inside £750 pp ($977) if you book early. We booked direct with Cunard.
MidWest Katie I don't know what your financial circumstances are but it's quite well priced me and my wife did it for £4000 With a balcony cabin if you book early i think you can get an inside Cabin for £750 ($977) book early and direct with cunard
QM2 crossings are the only cruises I do, love the crossings, have had some wild seas on a few, and that's typically fall-winter, as the video recommends summer if you want calmer seas, I totally agree with that, have had some summer crossings that its been like glass and some amazing star gazing.
ahhhhh....these beautiful trans atlantic ocean liners! the QM2 and Queen Elizabeth were both in my port city recently and wowed us with a special and spectacular sail past in the harbour!! was a ship lovers dream come true!!
Part of the fun, and experience, is all about dressing up come the evening time. Don’t let it put you off but rather embrace it as a wonderful opportunity to get out your glad rags!!!!
7:07 If you are the type of cruiser to say, "It's my vacation, I can wear a thong and a sombrero on formal nights in the MDR if I want to," then might I suggest a journey cruise on another line, like Carnival. Cunard has some of the strictest dress policies in cruising.
Marshal Dunnik As well they should be. On a cruise ship, casual is one thing (though usually done to excess). But, on a ship like the Cunard dress well. If you feel that's just too formal for you, then fly. Practically everyone dresses very poorly and far too casually on airliners these days.
@@barbaravick5634 What do you wear when you're stuck in a tin can for 9 hours - evening dress and a pearl necklace? . I dress for comfort and if you don't like that - you can go fuck yourself you pompous snob.
@@RGV250FORSALE Dear Mr. Black, Please understand that for many people a Cunard crossing is the trip of a life time. We have saved up for many years to make this happen. Dressing elegantly (and following the dress code published by Cunard and available in advance of your crossing) is part of the experience. If you don't wish to dress that way it is certainly your choice, but may I suggest that you will be a lot more comfortable on the many other lines that do not have formal dress codes.
I just booked a transatlantic for oct 2023! It’s like your video knew! I’m excited it’s only 5 days at sea at most because it’s going to Bermuda so it’s splitting it up! for the whole trip virtual inside cabin with tip it was $1081 only $73 a day! That can’t be beat!
Did a crossing on the QE2 years ago and was astonished at the great amount of fascinating things to do. Looking forward to a crossing on QM2. Have done a non-crossing cruise on her and loved it. Cunard (despite being owned now by Carnival Corp) has kept up the standard.
If a man has an opportunity to wear a tux, he should take it. As I think the tux makes most men look sophisticated, elegant, and in many instances, handsome.
@@panampia You are 100% correct...I purchased one back in 2004 and have had one ever since... I think most men would be surprised how many opportunities there are to wear one during your life, even in this modern world!!!
We were lucky enough to do a return trip to New York , on the way back the stars from Budapest film gave a question and answers session......fabulous !
My wife and I did an eastbound crossing several years ago. It was great except for the fact that we lost an hours sleep every day. Next time we will do it westbound.
Queens's Grill or not at all, LoLz! Plus lots of time in the Commodore Club, the Library, and Atlantic Room. Has to be good weather so as to enjoy the terraced aft decks as well.
Very informative! I crossed the Atlantic on a repositioning cruise in the 1970s, aboard the old SS Rotterdam. Very fond memories. I’d love to do it again on the Queen Mary.
The Rotterdam was one the really great old “ocean” liners of the 50s and 60s with their modern decor and artwork that represented the countries of their origin. For people who love mid century design they are often the best examples of it. When they docked in N Y they were open to the public and I’m sure they were visited by the top architects and designers for inspiration.
Gary, I have been a long time follower of your channel, I find the information that you provide on cruising to be extremely interesting, and most informative. Keep up the great work on your channel and I will continue to follow you.
I’ve always wanted to see what the Queen Mary was really like since seeing the old PBS Brideshead Revisited series. Thanks for a wonderful tour and explanation.
My husband and I enjoyed a 14 day trip from New York to the Caribbean and back on the Queen Mary 2 for our honeymoon. It was amazing and I hope we can do a transatlantic crossing some day. A grisly beautiful ocean liner and a smooth trip even in January.
The only thing I have ever wanted to do since she was launched was to have a nice Atlantic crossing, cruising aboard the Queen Mary-2. It was designed specifically to be the most luxurious "Ocean Liner." The meaning she was solely designed for crossing the Atlantic Ocean as the only designed cross Atlantic Liner built since I was born in 1951.
I used to HATE formal nights on Cruise ships, but I've changed... I started cruising with a Cruise company you never heard of... called Ocean Village. It was NO formality at all. P&O and NCL would be considered formal compared to their two ships. I loved it but now... There is something very special dressing up in queens grill...
I completed a Southampton to New York crossing in mid-September. As I was traveling down to Southampton I had some reservations about a week long cruise on the high seas. My fears were for naught. This was an incredible experience and I enjoyed every minute of it. Just a few words of caution. This isn’t a cruise for children. Second, for travelers looking for lots of physical activities, this probably isn’t your cup of tea (pun intended). The Kings Court buffet area gets VERY crowded during lunch. Finally, while the fitness center has well-maintained equipment, it can get crowded in the mornings and later in the day. I suspect that a couple of crew members were making use of equipment for lengthy periods of time. With all that said, go for it!
Clearly most passengers will be far too busy to spare a glance for the Atlantic. It is many years since I crossed by ship (three times) but I found looking at the sea a restful experience.
Just returned from on a 14 day roundtrip NYC, Southampton, NYC. Took your advice for our cabin location. Booked stateroom 6.174 a great location for getting around the ship. The sail exceeded our expectation. A couple of rough days, however, not difficult getting around. So much to do. We put a deposit for a future cruise. Your advice was very valuable--thank you!
Having just done a transatlantic in both directions in Dec 2017, I concur with most what you say. Personally I found the travel to Southampton better as the clocks were changed at midday, but going to New York they were changed at 2am and my body clock didn’t adapt to the extra hour every night the clocks were changed, my body clock was still waking at 8am GMT, so by the time I arrived in NY, I was waking up about 4am New York time and of course it doesn’t help as December are the shortest days! For some particular reason there does appear to be more sea swell off the coast of the British Isles into the North Atlantic where there is more noticeable pitching even though the sea state maybe only a force 3 to 4, I assume this maybe to do with the various currents coming from the Irish Sea, the Sea of Biscay and off the coast of Ireland. However the QM2 sailed through a violent storm force 11 off the US and ship sailed through it as if it was no more than a force 5, so don’t worry about QM2 not being capable of sailing in rough weather, it copes with it admirably. I know I wouldn’t have sailed across the North Atlantic in mid winter in the other Queens!
Thanks so much for adding your experiences and tips for others considering this fabulous journey. Good to hear you had a great time (despite the early waking!),
I've only today started looking at fares for such cruises, and they're looking quite affordable considering they're largely all-inclusive. I spend half of every year outside the USA...mostly SE Asia & Europe... and may well consider taking cruises either outbound or returning to the USA. It's an elegant way to deal with jet-lag...by avoiding it altogether...and cheaper than business class airfare. The QM2 looks like a fantastic experience. Honestly, my only cause for hesitation is the formal dress code. I'm retired now, very casual, and have no other reason to wear a suit or a tux. It doesn't make a ton of sense to buy and carry a formal wardrobe around the world for just 1-2 weeks of cruising out of the year. I'd have to lug an additional suitcase for months because the formal gear would push me beyond the limit of my usual single suitcase. I would certainly be quite happy to rent a suit or tux for the duration of the cruise if such a service were available. Does anybody here know anything about suit/tux rental options for cruisers? Alternatively, I suppose I could start wearing formal attire year-round instead of my shorts and sandals, but that might draw unwanted attention while waiting for the bus in Kuala Lumpur. ;)
A slight correction, on formal nights, a dark business type suit and tie are acceptable, as well as a tux. Our second crossing will be in Sept. Cannot wait!
I bet you can’t wait to have the QM2 burning tons of fuel for you produce massive amounts of CO2 and other sulfuric pollution in order to ... overfeed an already obese population at sea!
Went on QM2 last year, I agree with all of your good advice. It was a wonderful ship and you’d have to be a very difficult person to please if you were afraid of getting bored, there were parts of the ship I didn’t even get a chance to use in 5 days. The complimentary room service was wonderful. The only thing that disappointed me was the quality of the food in the Britannia dining room, I’m not a fussy eater and I had to very politely send a meal back and received major attitude from the wait staff thereafter and no apology, it was basically a plate of sliced fat with gravy over it supposed to be lamb. Not good enough for $900 per day. You do have to take a lot of luggage to cope with the dress code if you don’t want to wear the same thing each evening. Despite all of that I’m going again in February !
The Doctor On The QE2 did some dentist treatment on me as a crew member between Tahiti and New Zealand. Usually there is a dentist onboard for the world cruise.
I can't believe the comments about the QM2 crossing being dull. I have done seven crossings on this ship (and many on other ships over the past 43 years) and there is something for everyone. The entertainment covers the whole range from usual pop rubbish that is on all ships right up to classical concerts and sometimes an abridged version of one of Shakespeare's plays - and everything in between, of course. There is fine dining and the ubiquitous buffet/cafeteria. As for the dress code, a tuxedo is not required on the formal nights (three per crossing). The Cunard info clearly indicates that a suit and tie is an acceptable alternative. However, from my experience on three Cunard ships, there have been between 60 and 90% of men in tuxedos in the Britannia restaurant and in the single-sitting premium restaurants (Britannia Club, Princess Grill and Queen's Grill) it has always been around 95%.
i have been cruising for almost 40 years, since graduating from college - and I have learned early on is that cruise lines cater to a specific economic or age of cruisers. Companies like Carnival cater towards High Schoolers and the College party crowds, whereas Viking and Cunard lines cater to the more older and affluent types. My first cruise as a young man was on one of those catering to the older crowd, and at Twenty I did not appreciate the laid back, sedentary activities...whereas now at 60, I still do not but my much older friends do. I have cruised Carnival lately and I found them loud and always busy with multitudes of activities - many of which I enjoyed, but sometimes i was only one of few in my age group participating. the point is if you don`t do your research you could end up on a cruise from HELL! :)
QE2 Lover, Yes you’re spot on, a fantastic experience at least for my wife and I. A crossing is a romantic, gastronomic and enjoyable experience. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy cruising, then you won’t be disappointed. Now however if you have experience or like my wife and I have limited, but are intrigued by the fantasy of cruising you’ll have a fantastic time. The dress code just intensifies the mood of being in a dramatic environment. Must all travel be reduced to the cattle car affect of plane travel today? Seasickness wasn’t much of problem for our July crossing. I recommend that you try it.You may just like it.
Would love to go on this and can afford it, but I never travel because I hate being away from home and would worry about my pets. I will say that this ship, impressive as it is, could have been decorated better by simplifying some things - the various rooms and public areas are too busy.
I was on this ship QM2 on this maiden voyage out of south hampton, i was 16 at the time, it was so exciting! Being out in the Alantic was amzing, I remember being up at night and no one was in the corridors, I was roaming and exploring, the sea was so rough and the waves were huge - As I walked through the corridor I felt the pressure and weight lifting of the effect of the ship falling and rising in the giant waves. I felt like Rose on her trip in the Titantic, obviosuly with a happier ending, it was amaizng, i was one of the youngest people onboard.
My wife and I went in September - it was simply superb. Great food, wine and entertainment - we have booked again for April 2019......highly recommended
Nothing is like Cunard. I've been on all three, hope to go on the fourth ship now being built. What with the pandemic, all plans are in abeyance, but for elegance and class, it's Cunard all the way.
Is there a children's passage available on the Queen Mary 2? I want my two granddaughters to experience this elegance and culture. They will be 9 and 11 for the passage.
Very much enjoy your videos. One area to please discuss that I have not seen: would you please address the shops on the ships. One suitcase got lost at the airport on my first (and last) Princess Cruise. Their shops were mostly T-Shirts and Swimsuits. I (sort of) lucked out on a shore excursion but still very limited. Look forward to your information. 🌴
Gary. Thank you so much. You’ve convinced me to do the round trip in May next year from New York with my partner. He likes Royal Caribbean, but you convinced us both.
We picked our crossing date for mid December hoping to get the worst possible weather. It was wonderful! The motion of the boat put us to sleep and I lolled in bed for two hours just enjoying the motion in the morning.
We’ve taken eight or nine cruises with Holland America but I’ve always wondered about this particular experience. Thank you for explaining it in depth. I really enjoy your videos and I think you’re one of the best travel advisors out there. What a wonderful lifestyle you have. Would love to hear more about your life and what led you to do these travel logs.
When I was 28 (decades ago😊) I was going to Europe with only a backpack for 2 months. Since I was afraid of flying after a couple of scares, I decided I would have to take a “boat” to get there. It was 1986 & I learned about the QE II. Sounded fancy but was 5 days rather than others that were longer. So off I go with my backpack, a couple of dresses & one pair of nice shoes rolled up in it. It’s one of the best memories of my life but for different reasons. Had never been on a ship so everything was new. At that age I looked for a bar first. I met Steve the bartender as well as Jonathan who was a steward. I learned that I could order steak & lobster in my room rather than having to eat with all the “old people” at dinner and other tips. Also found out that my bar tab was ridiculously low. God love em. Nothing inappropriate with those guys. Learned about their families, kids etc. The best part was when Jonathan took me to “The Pig”. This was the club on the low level that was for the crew. Whenever I watch Titanic I think of The Pig. That’s when Rose went to the party below. It was like that. All of the crew were so nice and didn’t look down on me because I wasn’t fancy, just afraid to fly. Jonathan even took me to St Paul’s Cathedral (he had some shore leave when I got to London). Got to see them both again on the crossing home. The ship even stored the dresses & shoes for me so I’d have more room in my backpack for the trip!
Great story!
been to the 'Pig' myself. Crew quarters on the QE2 were not fancy, not like on a cruise ship. Waiters in Tables of the World dining (tourist class) were British merchant seamen, bad teeth and tattoos, but were friendly and worked hard, their supervisors were 'officers' and full of themselves. This was definitely a 'class' ship. first class ate at the 'queen's grill' and had butlers to serve them. But a great trip. No one checked but I swam in the first class pool inside, outside pools were closed.
@Barbarian 1967 as a steamship the QE2 could do about 34 knots, later reengined with diesel electric drive it could do more like 38 knots. That's really fast for any ship. A big fault of the liner United States that could go even faster was the fuel consumption and it had four engine rooms so it require a very large engine crew, in the hundreds. Without a big subsidy it couldn't make enough to cover costs.
learn to fly yourself, flying is fun once the fear is gone, and the fear goes once you know what is happening.
I wish I had been brave like you when I was young to travel solo.
I did a transatlantic crossing (NYC to Southampton) on QM2 in 2016. It was a bucket list dream, and well worth every penny. It’s probably the closest one will ever get to replicating the North Atlantic crossing days of the 1930s and before. She’s such an incredible ship! First class from top to bottom. She’s a true ocean liner in the tradition of the Titanic, Lusitania and Ile de France. A mere “cruise ship” she is not! I highly recommend a transatlantic crossing on this gorgeous ship if you ever get the chance!
Agree 100% with all of that!!!
Rupert, did you have to postpone the trip in 2020? Will be interested to know when the transatlantic crossings start again.
Hello! Can you please tell me that how much it did cost you including the ticket and all other expenses?
Just booked for my second crossing on the QM2 - Standing on the top deck of the QM2 sailing out of New York whilst looking at the Manhattan sky line has to be one of the greatest experiences.
Must be breathtaking.
@@yankees29 it is and going under the bridge…
@@romeo9017 I did a dinner cruise out of Port Washington Ny once and we went out and circled the Statue of Liberty. It was pretty cool but I was so drunk I kind of forget a lot of it. Lol
I spent 3 years working on all 3 Queens in the Queens Room Orchestra. We were the band that would give the regular bands a 1-2 month break and we'd hop from one ship to the next doing that all year round. I bet I've been on each ship 5+ times.
Great video. Fun to see all those areas I've spent so much time in and made so many memories with guests!
I'm so envious!!! I've always wanted to gig on a ocean liner!!!
I’m curious...we do ballroom dancing and love to dance every night on our cruises. The Queens Room looks amazing in size. Is there dancing every night in there? Any other dancing venues? Thanks! 🕺🏼😉💃🏻
I'm a musician and wondered what it was like for you playing in that band. What were the pros and cons of that gig? Was the money good? How did you get hired? Was there an audition? What styles of music did u have to play? Thanks!
I was fortunate enough to be in my teens and twenties during the "50's and "60's. We traveled on the Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mary, the United States, the Michael Angelo, the Hanseatic, the Constitution, and various Canadian steamers out of Montreal. I never regretted a single trip.
Awesome. Lucky you. It must have been a fabulous experience. Not many can make that claim.
That's cool! Sad to see some of those ships aren't around anymore, and the United States being laid up in Philadelphia
I too used the CP Empress Liners in the 60s. Wonderful!
How did the Constitution stack against the other liners? I am curious, since I consider myself fortunate to have been a passenger aboard her sister Independence.
I also am old enough to have traveled on some of the liners that you have. Although SS United States did not have the magnificent wood interior of some of her contemporaries, she was my favorite. We're you ever able to sail aboard SS France? I remember eating in the first class dining room as a young boy in an ill fitting tuxedo. The food was excellent but I couldn't get out of that dining room fast enough!
Dear Gary, my wife and I will be on the QM2 for the 13 day cruise to the caribbean. We will be mid ship in Queen's grill. As you suggested. This will be our fifty wedding anniversary.
It was 49 nine years since our last cruise on the Oceanic. Going on the QM2 is my bucket list.
I have over the last few months watched every video you have. Thank you very much.
By the way, since we booked very early, our cruise agent made changes to the cost everytime the price went down for our Queen's suite or offered aspecial discount.They made changes to location since Ifirst wanted to be close to the dining area. I remembered we shouldn't be at the back. We can walk just fine from mid ship and lose any extra pounds that we may encounter during our cruise. Big ha ha! Also we are on the same deck as the Commodore club. Once again, thanks for all your videos. Oh yes Cunard said they will have a special recognition at the first formal get together for our 50th. Signed, another GARY.
Congratulations! Sounds like a nice plan for your 50th anniversary.
If you are still alive, how did the QE2 cruise go? Was it worth it?
We are booked on the QM2 for April 2023 for our 50th. How did you get them to do a special recognition of your 50th?
Wonderful, its good to know the QE2 still upholds tradition..truly the LAST passenger liner. My father was in diplomatic corps (US foreign svc). We travelled regularly on the SS United States, on the north atlantic track, NYC to LeHarve,always 1st. Although she was laid up in 1969,she still holds the record (Blue Ribband) for fastest liner crossing,ever...Well remember leaving NYC, throwing streamers, over the side, (provided)complimentary bottle of champagne in our cabins... Interesting that the QE2 still holds the semi,and semi formal dress codes in 1st. Jacket and tie were mandatory for breakfast,and lunch, in the US dining salon. Formal for evening meals. I was but a young teen then,and struck up a conversation with an elderly couple in the lounge. As we were getting ready to embark at LeHarve,to pick up the boat train to Paris, I asked if they were doing the same. 'Oh no" ,the wife replied.".We just stay on her,going back and forth.,spring,summer,and fall."...I never saw them anywhere without a martini ,or champagne close by. Always in formal....Interesting,at the end of the gilded era,those two were determined to ride it out to the very end of the sunset.,as long as they were on the ship,time stopped for them..........
We did the Silhouette maiden crossing. There were 2 storms to dodge. 35-foot seas. When the sharp urge to hurl hits the back of your throat, a bite of sour apple kills it faster than you can blink your eyes. It's amazing. The staff walked around with bowls of sliced green apples. Yeah I took ginger and dramamine too.
I've crossed the Atlantic 8 times round trip. On destroyers and frigates. I'd give anything to be able to cross each way on the QM2 and just sit in a deck chair and relax. Nice cigar and a glass of brandy after dinner and sit and look at the stars from the middle of the sea.
I'll be on the same deck doing the same thing...👊👊👊
I'll say hi!
I did one crossing on a destroyer, it was like glass from Puerto Rico to Spain.
I did the trip mid summer, only time I spent on deck was on the last day, it was cold and windy, but there is plenty to do inside. Spent two years in the Coast Guard doing 'ocean stations' in these waters, most Navy frigates are big compared to CG cutters.
Re: Seasickness. I am terribly prone to seasickness, but I love cruising so I go to my doctor a week before I sail and ask for Transderm Scop (tm) patches. Put one behind your ear every three days, and no seasickness!
me too!
@@banburypandora - Yes they work very well
I hope to have enough money saved up in a year or 2 to do a round trip from New York to Southhampton and back simply for the sense of adventure.
Round trip only gives a small amount of time when you get there. Flying out and sailing home is a lot better.
🙂🙂
@@JulieWallis1963 how was it Julie?
Sailed her through Hurricane Sandy. She sailed at 20 knots through it. Hardly noticed. The most magnificent trip of my lifetime. I will cross again some day. In my youth, I also sailed on Rotterdam and QE2. Crossing the Atlantic is a magical experience.
QM2 is the most stable ship I have ever been on. Most impressive ship in the world imho.
Did you make this video just for me? Haha answered every single one of my questions perfectly, thank you!
You bet I did :-) God to hear it helped!
Nice covering of good points. On tipping I would say this: if you are going Grill/First class, tip in addition to the pre-added gratuities, for service on the spot. Also, try and find out which crew get the pre-adds, seek out those who do not, and tip them(maids and cleaners, for example, often get neglected. So do the chefs in both your favourite and assigned restaurant).
Travel by ship is a luxury anyway these days. And First Class is luxury on top of luxury. Now I don’t mind that, especially for me. But if you can afford to cruise at that level, you can afford to tip. Spread it around!
Only if the service is great.
I could only imagine what your standard of great is so you don't have to tip... @@ssaa8718
I did a December crossing on the QE2. We had extremely rough weather and I remember a couple of days going to the main dining room with only maybe 10 or 20 guests. I luckily never get seasick but almost all the passengers did. Even though I have photos of waves almost as high as the ship, I never really felt unsafe and certainly we were never bored. I would love to go on the QM 2 but this time in summer 😄
After many cruises, my wife and I finally sailed on Cunard twice last year, once on the Queen Victoria and on the the Queen Mary II. We did not do a crossing in the Queen Mary, but did a 14-day cruise from New York to Quebec and back to New York, with three days docked in Quebec. I think the Queen Mary is a wonderful ship. We had 40 knot winds with 30 foot seas and never felt it. I loved the lectures and the planetarium, which is unique. Also, their library is fantastic. The ship is unusual, but that is part of the charm. As you suggest, I would highly recommend this ship, especially if you don’t mind getting dressed up in the evening, which adds to the experience. It is something you will not regret. I am just watching a lot of your videos and like what you present. With nearly 30 cruises, I am following you for some clues on how to get more variety into our cruises. Look forward to more.
Getting bored is your option. People watching is high on the list cuz humans are fun. You can even talk to them. The trick to this is to be a good conversationalist. It’s sometimes the questions you ask. If they’re phrased just right and with intelligence. Catches people off guard and you can go to a deeper level. I tend to think people are boring but it’s typically not true if you get past the exterior since we all have stories. Family job past etcetera. Cheers Bill
This is great. I've crossed twice on QM2 and Victoria (in tandem with the old QE2). The QM2 is a magnificent experience. I could do it over and over and over again. It's the only way to cross!
agree 100% :-)
Keith Winestein - how much CO2 did you produce on the QM2?
@@philippechevereau9818 Per passenger? FAR less than airlines. An Ocean Liner is far more CO2 efficient. (And CO2 isn't really an issue....cause its plant food.....)
You should be ashamed of claiming such a polluting experience publicly
When I was 9 my family sailed on the SSAmerica across the Atlantic from NewYork City to Cohb Ireland, Southhampton England, LeHarve France ending in Bremerhaven Germany. I'll never forget this fantastic adventure!
On my bucket list of things to do: Take a trip on a real ocean liner, not a huge hotel that happens to float.
A great one to have on your list !!!!
If you wish to travel on a ship that actually gives you a WOW, the avoid this Cunard Tub. Its a Ferry that crap about liner is absolute crap.
Yeah. I agree with Thomas. I wish they brought back the old fancy ships such as the Olympic Class Liners, my god they were the definition of charm and elegance.
Anyways, any ideas? lol
I want to take a world cruise for my bucket list
Bob Heath so true. Qm2 is shit.
We've done it four times so far, and our planned fifth was canceled only due to Covid. The QM2 is magnificent. There's simply nothing like it. Far more affordable than you think -- add up what you'd spend on 7 nights of hotel accommodation, all the gourmet meals you could possibly want, first-rate entertainment (Broadway, Juilliard, and West End caliber), fascinating lectures -- the QM2 costs less. And you'll arrive relaxed and un-jetlagged. Worth every penny.
It's cheap for a couple. Solo travelers have to pay for 2 people. I'm booking regardless because I want to travel on this ship so I'll just pay for two people.
Personally I prefer to fly to New York, spend a few days shopping and enjoying the sites then travel home on the QM2 just because that way there is no worry about excess baggage
Nice! As long as one doing a crossing it has to be good !!
Ian Chessum - and flying is probably less polluting as well!
philippe chevereau not true flying is more polluting
Both methods add to pollution and global degradation. Choose your poison.
@@philippechevereau9818 dont think so
It's actually quite exciting to travel on an ocean liner during a hurricane. I've done it while experiencing a hurricane in October 1987 onboard The QE2 while I worked onboard. During hurricanes I never felt sea sick when there were large movements but swells in the sea like in The Bay Of Biscay close to Portugal made me feel a little green.
Was that during a regular crossing? I think it was after the re-engining?
After many crossings on the QE2 and QM2 I totally recommend the January crossing. It is usually the beginning of the world cruise for the US Passengers. The crowd is great fun, there are many regulars who love the winter crossing. It's an amazing travel experience. This year we left New York late in a snow storm, followed the storm slowly for 2 days, then went flat out to Southampton, arriving only 45 mins after scheduled arrival time. She is an amazing piece of engineering.
I agree! I did a November crossing, same direction. The other passengers were wonderful. The Atlantic Ocean was spectacular with some lively squalls , but for that ship it was no problem!
I done the same crossing! Was wondering we had the view of new york from own stateroom. The wifi is terrible only issue.
,
On my bucket list since I saw the original in NY Harbor as a small child. I’ve now crossed 5 times and it’s everything you say…. And more! I’ve brought my dogs on each crossing. They stay in the kennels on Deck 12 and that’s a great place too! Many of us dog owners spend a lot of our “luxury cruise” hanging out with our dogs in the kennels’ lounge. We bond and stay in touch. The Kennel Master Oliver and his staff are exceptional
He's spot on with that advice against sea-sickness. Get the lowest deck possible and closest to the middle of the ship. Whether it's swaying forward-backwards or side-to-side the middle of the ship moves the least. Ever since I figured that out, I've never needed to use Stugeron since then. They do work very well btw when you do need them.
My husband and I did this crossing in December 2016. It was a fantastic experience. And no, we never got bored. A couple of days into the crossing, the sea got wild and there were huge swells, with the ship riding them up, up, up and then crashing down over and over again. One night, we were moving back and forth in our bed and there was a drawer with a faulty latch opening and closing. So there is always a possibility of having a wild ride, even if the ship is designed for ocean crossings. The treatment that works best for me is the Transderm Scop patch (available by prescription from your doctor). I am very susceptible to motion sickness, and the patch made it so that I never felt sick even once the entire time. I also used them in Venice and had a great time enjoying the water taxis. A tip for the patch - you stick it behind your ear and leave it on for three days before replacing it with a new one. It helps to put a band-aid (plaster) over it to keep it there. I lost one in the shower once after only wearing it for one day. Also, it can mess with your vision (ability to focus properly), so reading may become difficult. For me, it's definitely worth that one annoyance!
I've always wanted to do a transatlantic cruise. It is an iconic trip.
The stars have aligned. We have, at short notice, booked a transatlantic crossing aboard QM2 departing in five weeks.
Can't wait... now I just have to get my tux and suit pressed....
Enjoy!!! Guess by now you are back Hope you had a wonderful time.
The Queen Mary is a beautiful Ocean Liner. A must for your bucket list for sure. Loved the elegance.
I worked on QM2 for six months and loved it. Dress code is enforced in any of the dining rooms. Buffet not so much. There is a medical center and quite a large security dept. Very comfy ship to be on, specially if you have money. I have seen medical patients airlifted off of the ship if the issue is severe enough to warrant it. Overall great memories of working on the ship. Please remember to be nice to the staff, they are on the ship for quite a long stretch, work incredibly hard with little time off and do get badly treated by some passengers, which is a pretty awful thing to see and have to deal with. Do not take expensive jewelry with you as there are so many passengers that try to scam the cruise line into believing that their $5000. ring was stolen by the purser and or cabin staff (rare). Overall a great experience.
Boo, hoo hoo, the poor staff have to work!!
Ever work on a cruise ship yourself…!?
@@Slim2134 Awl, are you upset?
Uhm…. No, not really
An ignorant guy like you hitting people for reactions, just to amuse himself. Not a chance
@@Slim2134 Awl, poor little baby.
I have crossed the Atlantic twice by ship, both on the QE2, the predecessor to the QM2. Great. Best lecture was by a retired Detective Chief Inspector of Sctoland Yard, who went through a murder investigation, such like on TV, but in MUCH greater detail, as he had 5 or 6 days.
What a beautiful sight the Statue of Liberty. I’ve never seen her captured this way. Lovely.
Did this trip 2018, Fly to New York, stay 3 days & cruise back. Superb. Saving to do it again soon
Very Good information, I've done the crossing 3 times in the last four years and can't wait for things to get back to normal to cross again. It's a great liner, and for me the bigger the seas the better, love to cross in late November.
I went alone to Europe the 2nd time in 1981 (my first trip was 3 months in 1969) when I was almost 31. It was a spectacular Cunard tour of Europe for about 3 weeks & then returning home to NY on the QE2. There were only 14 of us on the land tour. I met several people on the ship (a few I’m still in touch with) as well as my table’s sommelier, Mike. We remained friends for many years & every time the QE2 sailed to NYC, I’d meet with Mike. It was one of my very favorite trips. I’m hoping to take another voyage ..this time on the QM2. A voyage on one of the Cunard Queens is nothing like a cruise on one of those behemoth ships filled with thousands of people. It’s spectacular!!!!
Got back off a crossing from Southampton to nyc it was force 11 game but it was so steady I didn’t feel it it was a bit daunting when the captain said we are going over the final resting place of the titanic but ur advice was greate thx !
Wow that must’ve been a wild experience!
Getting claustrophobic on a three hour ferry, I just know I would panic on one of these crossings, but I really appriciate the effort and care that this ocean liner takes to provide for it's guests.
This brings back so many memories. My father ran the photography business on the United States. He was American, my mother was British. They had me but weren't married, a scandal in the early 60's. Because of this my mother had to go back to England every 6 months to renew her visa. I did so many Trans-Atlantic crossings on the Queen Elizabeth, United States and the original Queen Mary. I missed the first week of Second Grade to sail on the maiden voyage of the QE2. I remember watching my parents dress to the nines, me too but I had to eat at the children's table. I remember so many Atlantic storms. A way of life that doesn't exist. I'm so glad I was able to experience it!
Thanks for sharing this. Really interesting to hear your experience. It must have been fab!!
Tips For Travellers It really was. That world no longer exists but it was fun to have been a small part of it as a child. I took a transatlantic sailing on the QE2 with my mother in 1985. This ship, that as a child had seemed so vast, was actually so small compared to today's mammoth cruise ships! I absolutely agree that if you can sail a transatlantic voyage don't hesitate, just do it. It's a throwback to a different time and place, even if it's only for a few days!
So glad for you-sounds really special 😊
I crossed from Southampton in 2016 and I promise you that you will not get bored. Arriving in New York early morning you must go to the top of the ship as you go under a bridge just about hitting with the funnels and to see New York with the sun lighting New York was something I will never forget. We never wore tuxedo's on formal nights you can wear trousers blazer but you must have a tie on . Had a gal force 10 one night and my coffee never even had a ripple in it the ship was on its side just cutting through the waves like butter. There was six of us in our party and not one of us got sea sick. Don't die and not do a crossing it was the best holiday I've ever done. Put it on your bucket list.
QM2 is a fantastic ship. I traveled on the Queen Elizabeth 2 many times starting as a child on a 1970 transatlantic crossing. I preferred QE2's faster 5-day crossings but the facilities, cabins and dining options on QM2 can't be beat. On our 4 trips on the ship we booked a Queens Grill grade suite once and a Princess Grill grade mini suite three times. The service and food was always perfect. On the transatlantic crossings the dress is formal while at sea which means a suit or tux/dinner jacket for the men. If you don't feel like dressing up there are other less formal dining options onboard.
Hi. I worked on the QM2 as a Sommelier. for 5 years. It does not take 8 days to do a crossing. It is 5 days and we arrive either in Southampton or New York on the morning of the 6th day. We also don't do crossing in April anymore because of storms. They only do crossings from late May to September. It was an amazing ship to work on. I still miss it.
That was true when we started sailing on QM2 in 2005, but the ship now takes more time. If you look at the current schedule, you will see that the crossings are 7 nights, arriving the morning of the 8th day.
Great video and explanation as usual. Love your work. Please please explain the Queen Mary 2 balcony cabins, what is sheltered, obstructed etc so we can choose. We want to do the 14nights transatlantic so choosing a comfortable cabin with a balcony we can use is critical. Janet x
Looked at this video to reminisce about our QM2 crossing from Southampton to NYC in April 2010. We're still trying to get to editing together our videos, but thought yours was excellent. Back then, as our first ever cruise, we wanted to retrace (roughly) the voyage of the Titanic and to ponder the immigrants who first came to America by ship where they experienced seeing the Statue of Liberty as their first greeting to America, which it was for us, as well. We wanted a taste of the old world glamour and imagined all the famous people who had done the same voyage. We've been on many cruises since, but none were as emotional and enjoyable as this one. The lack of ports, and the demands of all that, made this a true voyage for us to relax and enjoy a unique adventure.
Then there are folks like me who actually love rough seas. Might do a winter crossing if i get the chance.
I just became a travel Advisor and this is pretty much #1 on my list!
It's great they enforce the dress close, I wish all cruise lines followed the same ethic. If you don't want to dress up that is fine, but use the buffet.
Dress codes are such a ridiculous outdated load of crap.
@@musefan12345 07:30...what do they do, throw you overboard or make you walk the plank? :D
DiCraprio didn't have to dress up, why should anyone else? :D
@@musefan12345 If you want to wear a baseball cap on backwards, cargo shorts, flip flops, sport your tattoos and piercings... there are other ships to welcome you. A Cunard ship is not one of them.
@@wongfeihung6285 her comment clearly states that she wishes ALL ships followed the same ethic. Why would she care? She sounds like a complete snob. If she doesn’t like ships that don’t enforce strict dress codes, then don’t sail on them.
Thanks for your video, I just did QM2 eastward New York to Southampton. We went through gale force 10 and no sea sickness, we were on deck 4 between B and C aisles and we got a little swaying but the odd jolt. A little bored at times but you're right there are plenty of things to do. We got a room with balcony and sometimes we just sat in our room with the door open. After the 1st night we did double-back towards USA to get 2 passengers off in helicopter.
Thanks for watching, and taking time to leave your experiences. I love the crossing !
That was a fantastic voyage. Memories that kept my spirits up during pandemic. I’m booked on QM2 this fall from NYC to Quebec. Less chance of rough seas if seasickness is a problem .
This is my ultimate dream cruise. Sigh. Some day...
It is a dream I agree ! Hopefully one day soon you will get to give it a go !
Bless your heart, I hope you get to live your dream. When I was an adolescent in the 70's, I never thought I'd ever get to sail on a true ocean liner, and I did. You can make it happen, especially if you find a fellow traveller who can share the cost.
MidWest Katie Why not around the world cruise?
I don't know what your financial circumstances are but it's quite well priced me and my wife did a balcony cabin just less than £4000. I am sure you can do an inside £750 pp ($977) if you book early. We booked direct with Cunard.
MidWest Katie
I don't know what your financial circumstances are but it's quite well priced me and my wife did it for £4000 With a balcony cabin if you book early i think you can get an inside Cabin for £750 ($977) book early and direct with cunard
QM2 crossings are the only cruises I do, love the crossings, have had some wild seas on a few, and that's typically fall-winter, as the video recommends summer if you want calmer seas, I totally agree with that, have had some summer crossings that its been like glass and some amazing star gazing.
ahhhhh....these beautiful trans atlantic ocean liners! the QM2 and Queen Elizabeth were both in my port city recently and wowed us with a special and spectacular sail past in the harbour!! was a ship lovers dream come true!!
Part of the fun, and experience, is all about dressing up come the evening time. Don’t let it put you off but rather embrace it as a wonderful opportunity to get out your glad rags!!!!
7:07 If you are the type of cruiser to say, "It's my vacation, I can wear a thong and a sombrero on formal nights in the MDR if I want to," then might I suggest a journey cruise on another line, like Carnival. Cunard has some of the strictest dress policies in cruising.
Marshal Dunnik
As well they should be. On a cruise ship, casual is one thing (though usually done to excess). But, on a ship like the Cunard dress well. If you feel that's just too formal for you, then fly. Practically everyone dresses very poorly and far too casually on airliners these days.
@@barbaravick5634 What do you wear when you're stuck in a tin can for 9 hours - evening dress and a pearl necklace? . I dress for comfort and if you don't like that - you can go fuck yourself you pompous snob.
@@RGV250FORSALE horrible thing to say!
@@RGV250FORSALE Dear Mr. Black,
Please understand that for many people a Cunard crossing is the trip of a life time. We have saved up for many years to make this happen. Dressing elegantly (and following the dress code published by Cunard and available in advance of your crossing) is part of the experience.
If you don't wish to dress that way it is certainly your choice, but may I suggest that you will be a lot more comfortable on the many other lines that do not have formal dress codes.
Shit... sounds like Carnival is the Walmart of cruise lines, eh?
I just booked a transatlantic for oct 2023! It’s like your video knew! I’m excited it’s only 5 days at sea at most because it’s going to Bermuda so it’s splitting it up! for the whole trip virtual inside cabin with tip it was $1081 only $73 a day! That can’t be beat!
Can’t wait for my voyage on 8th December! 🤩 great video thanks!
Did a crossing on the QE2 years ago and was astonished at the great amount of fascinating things to do. Looking forward to a crossing on QM2. Have done a non-crossing cruise on her and loved it. Cunard (despite being owned now by Carnival Corp) has kept up the standard.
You don’t need a tux on formal nights. I’ve done this crossing many times and a dark suit is just fine, quite a few men choose this option.
Thanks for that insight. I would pack a nice dark suit but I'll never have a tux!
If a man has an opportunity to wear a tux, he should take it. As I think the tux makes most men look sophisticated, elegant, and in many instances, handsome.
@@brucefielder9312 Why? A tuxedo is awesome, you'll never look better.
@@panampia You are 100% correct...I purchased one back in 2004 and have had one ever since... I think most men would be surprised how many opportunities there are to wear one during your life, even in this modern world!!!
@@christianwestling2019 correct!
We were lucky enough to do a return trip to New York , on the way back the stars from Budapest film gave a question and answers session......fabulous !
My wife and I did an eastbound crossing several years ago. It was great except for the fact that we lost an hours sleep every day. Next time we will do it westbound.
I agree. I much prefer the Southampton to NYC for that reason!
We did it in 2017 and will do again as soon as Covid is over. It's wonderful!
My dream is to cross the Atlantic. Thank you for such a wonderful, informative videi.
I'm crossing it in november.
Queens's Grill or not at all, LoLz! Plus lots of time in the Commodore Club, the Library, and Atlantic Room. Has to be good weather so as to enjoy the terraced aft decks as well.
Very informative! I crossed the Atlantic on a repositioning cruise in the 1970s, aboard the old SS Rotterdam. Very fond memories. I’d love to do it again on the Queen Mary.
That must have been amazing ! The SS Rotterdam looked fabulous
The Rotterdam was one the really great old “ocean” liners of the 50s and 60s with their modern decor and artwork that represented the countries of their origin. For people who love mid century design they are often the best examples of it. When they docked in N Y they were open to the public and I’m sure they were visited by the top architects and designers for inspiration.
Gary, I have been a long time follower of your channel, I find the information that you provide on cruising to be extremely interesting, and most informative. Keep up the great work on your channel and I will continue to follow you.
I’ve always wanted to see what the Queen Mary was really like since seeing the old PBS Brideshead Revisited series. Thanks for a wonderful tour and explanation.
Great to hear! Thanks for watching and taking time to also comment. It is always appreciated when people do that !
I really enjoyed it. I doubt I'll ever go, but that was the next best thing.
Thanks ! Great to hear you found it interesting!
Thanks! I just remembered that I toured the Queen Mary when it was docked in Long Beach, CA. Needed a lot of work.
@@debrastagias3958 Are you talking about the old Queen Mary? Or QM2.
If she needed work, she was in the right place.
My husband and I enjoyed a 14 day trip from New York to the Caribbean and back on the Queen Mary 2 for our honeymoon. It was amazing and I hope we can do a transatlantic crossing some day. A grisly beautiful ocean liner and a smooth trip even in January.
Grisly?
Thx so much. Very helpful. I am subscribed and I have liked your video.
We just completed a westbound crossing on the QM2. Every tip in this video is spot on.
Thank you for letting us know. Truly appreciated.
The only thing I have ever wanted to do since she was launched was to have a nice Atlantic crossing, cruising aboard the Queen Mary-2. It was designed specifically to be the most luxurious "Ocean Liner." The meaning she was solely designed for crossing the Atlantic Ocean as the only designed cross Atlantic Liner built since I was born in 1951.
I used to HATE formal nights on Cruise ships, but I've changed... I started cruising with a Cruise company you never heard of... called Ocean Village. It was NO formality at all. P&O and NCL would be considered formal compared to their two ships. I loved it but now... There is something very special dressing up in queens grill...
THANK YOU! Very useful tips, all my questions regarding a transatlantic crossing have been cleared. Eager to board the QM2.
I completed a Southampton to New York crossing in mid-September. As I was traveling down to Southampton I had some reservations about a week long cruise on the high seas. My fears were for naught. This was an incredible experience and I enjoyed every minute of it. Just a few words of caution. This isn’t a cruise for children. Second, for travelers looking for lots of physical activities, this probably isn’t your cup of tea (pun intended). The Kings Court buffet area gets VERY crowded during lunch. Finally, while the fitness center has well-maintained equipment, it can get crowded in the mornings and later in the day. I suspect that a couple of crew members were making use of equipment for lengthy periods of time. With all that said, go for it!
Clearly most passengers will be far too busy to spare a glance for the Atlantic. It is many years since I crossed by ship (three times) but I found looking at the sea a restful experience.
Most definitely..
How anyone could possible get bored enjoying the sea is beyond me...
We are going in a couple of days, very excited
Just returned from on a 14 day roundtrip NYC, Southampton, NYC. Took your advice for our cabin location. Booked stateroom 6.174 a great location for getting around the ship. The sail exceeded our expectation. A couple of rough days, however, not difficult getting around. So much to do. We put a deposit for a future cruise. Your advice was very valuable--thank you!
Great to hear it helpful and that you had a fantastic time. I need to do another crossing as love them. Did you book another crossing or cruise ?
Any relation to "Lucky"
A cruise I’ll never take, but really enjoy hearing about from those that do.
Having just done a transatlantic in both directions in Dec 2017, I concur with most what you say. Personally I found the travel to Southampton better as the clocks were changed at midday, but going to New York they were changed at 2am and my body clock didn’t adapt to the extra hour every night the clocks were changed, my body clock was still waking at 8am GMT, so by the time I arrived in NY, I was waking up about 4am New York time and of course it doesn’t help as December are the shortest days! For some particular reason there does appear to be more sea swell off the coast of the British Isles into the North Atlantic where there is more noticeable pitching even though the sea state maybe only a force 3 to 4, I assume this maybe to do with the various currents coming from the Irish Sea, the Sea of Biscay and off the coast of Ireland. However the QM2 sailed through a violent storm force 11 off the US and ship sailed through it as if it was no more than a force 5, so don’t worry about QM2 not being capable of sailing in rough weather, it copes with it admirably. I know I wouldn’t have sailed across the North Atlantic in mid winter in the other Queens!
Thanks so much for adding your experiences and tips for others considering this fabulous journey. Good to hear you had a great time (despite the early waking!),
I've only today started looking at fares for such cruises, and they're looking quite affordable considering they're largely all-inclusive. I spend half of every year outside the USA...mostly SE Asia & Europe... and may well consider taking cruises either outbound or returning to the USA. It's an elegant way to deal with jet-lag...by avoiding it altogether...and cheaper than business class airfare. The QM2 looks like a fantastic experience. Honestly, my only cause for hesitation is the formal dress code. I'm retired now, very casual, and have no other reason to wear a suit or a tux. It doesn't make a ton of sense to buy and carry a formal wardrobe around the world for just 1-2 weeks of cruising out of the year. I'd have to lug an additional suitcase for months because the formal gear would push me beyond the limit of my usual single suitcase. I would certainly be quite happy to rent a suit or tux for the duration of the cruise if such a service were available. Does anybody here know anything about suit/tux rental options for cruisers? Alternatively, I suppose I could start wearing formal attire year-round instead of my shorts and sandals, but that might draw unwanted attention while waiting for the bus in Kuala Lumpur. ;)
Why not just go to the buffet or one of the other cafes instead and skip the formal dinner
A slight correction, on formal nights, a dark business type suit and tie are acceptable, as well as a tux. Our second crossing will be in Sept. Cannot wait!
I bet you can’t wait to have the QM2 burning tons of fuel for you produce massive amounts of CO2 and other sulfuric pollution in order to ... overfeed an already obese population at sea!
@@philippechevereau9818 sounds good to me!!
@@philippechevereau9818 Greta, is that you!
@@philippechevereau9818 Why are you even here? If your intent is to educate people, you're not very good at it.
@@paulenglund8558 Because people like Philippe are EnviroMENTAL Nazis.
i personally love thw patch behind the ear
Went on QM2 last year, I agree with all of your good advice. It was a wonderful ship and you’d have to be a very difficult person to please if you were afraid of getting bored, there were parts of the ship I didn’t even get a chance to use in 5 days. The complimentary room service was wonderful. The only thing that disappointed me was the quality of the food in the Britannia dining room, I’m not a fussy eater and I had to very politely send a meal back and received major attitude from the wait staff thereafter and no apology, it was basically a plate of sliced fat with gravy over it supposed to be lamb. Not good enough for $900 per day. You do have to take a lot of luggage to cope with the dress code if you don’t want to wear the same thing each evening. Despite all of that I’m going again in February !
I agree. Its is quite an experience. I need to get on again!!!
Branto G @
The Doctor On The QE2 did some dentist treatment on me as a crew member between Tahiti and New Zealand. Usually there is a dentist onboard for the world cruise.
I can't believe the comments about the QM2 crossing being dull. I have done seven crossings on this ship (and many on other ships over the past 43 years) and there is something for everyone. The entertainment covers the whole range from usual pop rubbish that is on all ships right up to classical concerts and sometimes an abridged version of one of Shakespeare's plays - and everything in between, of course. There is fine dining and the ubiquitous buffet/cafeteria. As for the dress code, a tuxedo is not required on the formal nights (three per crossing). The Cunard info clearly indicates that a suit and tie is an acceptable alternative. However, from my experience on three Cunard ships, there have been between 60 and 90% of men in tuxedos in the Britannia restaurant and in the single-sitting premium restaurants (Britannia Club, Princess Grill and Queen's Grill) it has always been around 95%.
I’m with you and your thoughts and comments !
The people who would find the QM2 dull are the kind who would find the food court at an amusement park to be high culture.
i have been cruising for almost 40 years, since graduating from college - and I have learned early on is that cruise lines cater to a specific economic or age of cruisers. Companies like Carnival cater towards High Schoolers and the College party crowds, whereas Viking and Cunard lines cater to the more older and affluent types. My first cruise as a young man was on one of those catering to the older crowd, and at Twenty I did not appreciate the laid back, sedentary activities...whereas now at 60, I still do not but my much older friends do. I have cruised Carnival lately and I found them loud and always busy with multitudes of activities - many of which I enjoyed, but sometimes i was only one of few in my age group participating. the point is if you don`t do your research you could end up on a cruise from HELL! :)
QE2 Lover,
Yes you’re spot on, a fantastic experience at least for my wife and I. A crossing is a romantic, gastronomic and enjoyable experience. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy cruising, then you won’t be disappointed. Now however if you have experience or like my wife and I have limited, but are intrigued by the fantasy of cruising you’ll have a fantastic time. The dress code just intensifies the mood of being
in a dramatic environment. Must all travel be reduced to the cattle car affect of plane travel today? Seasickness wasn’t much of problem for our July crossing. I recommend that you try it.You may just like it.
Would love to go on this and can afford it, but I never travel because I hate being away from home and would worry about my pets. I will say that this ship, impressive as it is, could have been decorated better by simplifying some things - the various rooms and public areas are too busy.
I was on this ship QM2 on this maiden voyage out of south hampton, i was 16 at the time, it was so exciting! Being out in the Alantic was amzing, I remember being up at night and no one was in the corridors, I was roaming and exploring, the sea was so rough and the waves were huge - As I walked through the corridor I felt the pressure and weight lifting of the effect of the ship falling and rising in the giant waves. I felt like Rose on her trip in the Titantic, obviosuly with a happier ending, it was amaizng, i was one of the youngest people onboard.
Booked a trip July 2019. Looks like the perfect time. Thanks so much for the tips. You answered all my concerns.
Great to hear! Hope you have a wonderful trip when you do it
My wife and I went in September - it was simply superb. Great food, wine and entertainment - we have booked again for April 2019......highly recommended
@@AlanP625 Awww I wish you got to sail in 2019 sad that you've missed a voyage on Queen Mary 2
Nothing is like Cunard. I've been on all three, hope to go on the fourth ship now being built. What with the pandemic, all plans are in abeyance, but for elegance and class, it's Cunard all the way.
I go once a year both ways although it’s only holiday I have
Mom and I have a trip planned in Oct 2022. Can't wait!
My late father was in the navy for 30 years, and he imparted to me his foolproof cure for sea sickness. Stand under a tree.
Will that work if the tree is in the Central Park of a Royal Caribbean ship? :P
John T Your dad must’ve had a great sense of humour! Wonder where he’d of said where to be during a thunder storm! 😜
Lol. Just watch out for the squirrels. 😉
And the birds, especialy the large ones.;-)
Great advice 😂😂😂😂😂
Is there a children's passage available on the Queen Mary 2? I want my two granddaughters to experience this elegance and culture. They will be 9 and 11 for the passage.
Very informative, thanks for posting.
That's one of my dreams A Transatlantic crossing from and to Southampton on QM2.
Very much enjoy your videos. One area to please discuss that I have not seen: would you please address the shops on the ships. One suitcase got lost at the airport on my first (and last) Princess Cruise. Their shops were mostly T-Shirts and Swimsuits. I (sort of) lucked out on a shore excursion but still very limited. Look forward to your information. 🌴
Check the QM2 website, they should have some info on what's available.
Gary. Thank you so much. You’ve convinced me to do the round trip in May next year from New York with my partner. He likes Royal Caribbean, but you convinced us both.
Awesome!!’ Great to hear 👍🏻 Hope you have a fabulous time. We’re on May 8th Crossing to NYC so guess you’ll be getting on the ship on 15th?
@@tipsfortravellers I hope you have a great trip and please do make a video of it for your channel
Super nice video. You have persuaded me to add this crossing to my list. Thanks!
Thanks. Great to hear. Have a great Crossing when you do it!
We picked our crossing date for mid December hoping to get the worst possible weather. It was wonderful! The motion of the boat put us to sleep and I lolled in bed for two hours just enjoying the motion in the morning.
Am thinking I can definitely do this.
returned from new York in August 2015 on the qm2 & the weather was perfect, fantastic ship and can't wait to do it again
Great video, very informative! I’m hoping to go on the QM2 to New York next year. Your video has made me want to go even more now!
Great to hear you enjoyed and found it helpful. It is a great experience. I want to go again too !
We’ve taken eight or nine cruises with Holland America but I’ve always wondered about this particular experience. Thank you for explaining it in depth. I really enjoy your videos and I think you’re one of the best travel advisors out there. What a wonderful lifestyle you have. Would love to hear more about your life and what led you to do these travel logs.