Queen Mary 2, the world’s only ocean liner, is home to the largest library at sea, the first Planetarium at sea, and is the only liner that, famously, has its own kennels. She’s built to cross the Atlantic in the utmost style and comfort and has been wowing cruisers with her array of sophisticated amenities for 20 years.
Cruise.co.uk Content Editor Jessica Brookes got to experience the joy of cruising with Queen Mary 2, during a three-night cruise. Read on to get her take on this legendary ocean liner…
Refined. Timeless. Unforgettable. Those are just some words that define cruising with Queen Mary 2.
She’s the epitome of the iconic cruise line Cunard, and I had the pleasure of cruising with her for a short, but incredibly sweet, voyage from Lisbon to Southampton. Not only did I get to experience the essence of cruising with Cunard, but I also found myself getting stuck into a whole host of inspiring, and sometimes surprising experiences whilst onboard.
Here’s my pick of my top six inspiring things to do onboard Queen Mary 2:
1. Be Whisked Up, Up And Away In The Scenic Lift
Queen Mary 2 is overflowing with fabulous spots on deck to soak up gorgeous sea and shore views. However, few guests know that the ship actually has special, you could even call somewhat secret, lifts that have some of the best vistas onboard.
The lifts are best accessed via the library on deck 7, and can be used to access the impressive Observation Deck overlooking the front of the ship on deck 11.
This is one of the very best views onboard the whole ship – a quiet, peaceful spot to gaze out over the glistening ocean waters on sea days plus a brilliant vantage point for sailaways. If you’re looking for an even higher viewpoint onboard, head up to deck 13’s Look Out for unmissable panoramic views (ideal for any amateur photographers at sea!).
2. Dine At The Verandah
The Verandah is Queen Mary 2’s dedicated steak house, a fabulously chic venue serving succulent cuts cooked to absolute perfection. Alongside Australian Wagyu sirloins and grain-fed Aberdeen Black steaks, the menu, surprisingly, features Aubrey Allen steaks from Warwickshire, served as fillets, sirloin, rib eyes and even in the form of 4oz burgers.
Steak connoisseurs will obviously adore this speciality dining option, which costs a little extra, but vegetarian and pescatarian diners are also well-fed at The Verandah. The restaurant’s menu features delicious fish dishes, such as a beautifully presented, succulent Caribbean Lobster Cocktail, Grilled Dover Sole (served on and off the bone) and even a Beyond Meat vegetarian burger.
The whole atmosphere of this intimate dining venue is just exquisite, akin to dining in a sultry, upmarket steakhouse on land. Service is formal yet intimate, with an in-house sommelier on hand to guide you through the impressive wine list (don’t miss the crisp Italian Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie). You even get to choose your own steak knife!
3. See A West End Style Show
It’s incredibly difficult to be bored on a Queen Mary 2 cruise. The daily roster of quizzes, films, talks, pianist performances, art classes, Royal Shakespeare Company workshops, sporting activities (including fencing!) and bingo tournaments on offer are sure to keep you entertained day and night.
However, the standout show that you should circle in your daily programme is Cunard’s very own West End-style extravaganzas. Typically performed during two sittings at various evenings onboard in the Royal Court Theatre, the sheer volume of talent that these shows exude is unbelievable.
For instance, the Broadway Rocks performance I saw onboard was packed full of amazing singers and dancers who were all note-perfect. A mesmerising ensemble of musical theatre classics, from West Side Story to Wicked, was performed with gusto against a backdrop of high-tech staging – a truly awe-inspiring performance all round.
4. Sip Something New
Alongside an excellent choice of top beers and excellent vintages, Queen Mary 2 is overflowing with a decadent selection of tantalising cocktails. Top quality drinks, like Negronis (made with Cunard’s very own 3 Queens Gin) Martinis and Daiquiris are available alongside an extensive collection of signature cocktails.
In the Chart Room, an ideal location for pre-dinner drinks as it’s conveniently located next to the Britannia Restaurant, you can choose between a celestial selection of drinks themed on the signs of the zodiacs and other star systems. Elsewhere, the plush Commodore Club serve premium cocktails named after Cunard’s very own Commodores of years past.
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, Queen Mary 2’s bars also serve a delightful array of mocktails, such as the ultra zesty Cedro a Go-Go and Rumless mojitos, Frobishers juices, soft and hot drinks.
5. Hear From Experts At An Insights Talk
Cunard offers a phenomenal schedule of insightful talks and discussions, aptly named Cunard Insights. The calibre of these talks on Queen Mary 2 is top-notch and wide-ranging in terms of topics and guest speakers, from eccentric comedians and intrepid adventurers to Royal experts and knowledgeable broadcasters.
One of these speakers is Meera Syal, an actor and comedian who has starred in the smash hit series Goodness Gracious Me and the hilarious The Kumars at No.42. During my cruise with Queen Mary 2, I had the pleasure of hearing about her quirky career, including working with Jack Black and Hugh Grant, and growing up in the Midlands, during one of these Cunard Insights events.
Hosted in the Royal Court Theatre, the whole event was quite casual and well-attended by other curious guests – it felt like I was listening to old stories told in a rather large living room amongst new friends!
6. Indulge In Afternoon Tea
If you know one thing about Queen Mary 2, you’ll know that the ship is famous for its signature Afternoon Tea. Served promptly at 3.30pm, this experience is every day, but always a grand affair onboard.
White Star Service trained staff elegantly glide into either Britannia Restaurant or the Queens Room to a round of applause from awaiting guests, who patiently wait to be served. Afternoon Tea is a fine selection of precisely cut finger sandwiches, steaming hot tea poured into white bone china, just sweet enough cakes and pastries, plus the star of the show – scones.
Many guests enjoy this unique experience every single day onboard, as it’s just so special and quintessentially Cunard – plus it’s all included for everybody onboard.
