Special Diet

 
Reviewed By: Fielding, Liverpool on 23rd Feb 2010
Cruise Line: Cunard Cruises Times cruised before: 3-5
Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2 Sailed: October, 2009
Destination: British Isles Age: 56-65
Cabin: Balcony
Cruising review
I cruised twice last year, once with P&O Oceana and once with Cunard QM2.

Friends frequently ask me about the so-called elitism of Cunard. In reference to ‘the class system’ and various parts of the ship ordinary passengers are not allowed to venture.
I travelled as an ordinary passenger and was not prevented from any part of the ship. In fact I was unaware that there was a class divide. The QM2 endeavours to create the ambience of by gone days of cruising with all the comforts of the 21st century. Passengers are made to feel special, in opulent surroundings. The ship and all it offers being an important part of the experience.
On the Oceana, the ambience is what is referred to as ‘relaxed’. The ship not being part of the cruise experience but seemingly a vehicle to transport it’s passengers from one port to another in pleasant surroundings, without any great attention to detail. One small detail, fresh flowers are notably absent from the Oceana as they abound on the QM2.

On both ships the stewards and waiters were all of the highest standard and no request was too much trouble. All requests were carried out with speed and the utmost efficiency.

I suffer from Coeliac disease both ships were informed of my dietary needs prior to my departure as requested.
On both ships I was able to choose anything from the next days menu and it was prepared for me according to my Gluten Free diet for the main meals. But there the similarities ended. If I chose to eat in the ‘Terrace Bar’ on the Oceana the choice of food was very limited. One day, at breakfast I waited over half an hour for a piece of toast. Also the ‘Afternoon Tea’ was unimaginative the sandwiches made with dry bread, dry biscuits but pleasant marsh mallows, the same served every day. While on the QM2 such a contrast. For breakfast in the Kings Court my bread for toasting was readily available. A good selection of foods was available for lunch and the ‘Afternoon Teas’ in the ballroom were delightful. Soft fresh bread for the sandwiches, a selection of fancy cakes and mouth-watering scones all beautifully prepared daily. The presentation of the food was superior.

We have booked again on the QM2 this year cruising the East Coast Adventure to U.S.A for three weeks.
Quality of Food5
Food prepared for me according to my diet
Entertainment5
Showtime Lesley Garrett
Shore Excursionsn/a
Staff5
The Head Waiter in the Britannia Restaurant took great care advising the menu
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities4
A varied choice
Cabins4
Yes very pleasing
Overall Rating5
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Opinion: Agree Comment by McDonald, Wigan (24 Feb 10 14:33) about this REVIEW
Sounds like you had a great time. As you say, there is no 'class divide'. This is often referred to by idiots who do not know what they are talking about, or just idiots who want to bash Cunard. For the record, I think if you go Queens or Princess Grill you get use of a small decking area and single seating dining. We travelled britannia on both our voyages on QM2 and really enjoyed it. Cannot wait to sail on her again. Bon Voyage!!

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