Christmas Mini Cruise

We boarded the Queen Mary 2 at Southampton just before midday for our Christmas/Birthday mini cruise to Bruges. Queen Mary 2’s decor is traditional, timeless and classic and on this Christmas Markets voyage it looked sublimely seasonal – it was impossible to walk an inch and forget that Christmas was fast approaching. There was an imposingly grand Christmas tree centered in the six-deck-high atrium lobby and Christmas garlands draped around the sweeping staircases.

After boarding the ship, we were almost instantly treated to a seasonal ‘welcome aboard’ performance by the Boy Choristers of Salisbury Cathedral in the atrium lobby, followed by a programmed performance in the Royal Court Theater (a three-deck-high theater designed in the style of a classic opera house).

After the performance we settled into our room and enjoyed our complimentary boarding champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries, before wrapping up to enjoy a pre-dinner firework display from on deck.

Day 2 was a day at sea. Even though it was very cold, we wandered around deck. Later that morning Annemarie Indulged in the superb Canyon Ranch SpaClub as a birthday treat whilst I spent time exploring the ship.

The food onboard is mouthwatering to say the least, so don’t miss out on afternoon tea. Served by white-gloved waiters, choose from freshly baked scones and delectable sandwiches. There is a resident pianist onboard too – so you can sit back and read a book and enjoy the music whilst partaking in your favourite tipple.

Queen Mary 2 also has a full-scale Planetarium – the only one at sea – go see a new show each day, it’s a must for all you who have a strong interest in space and astronomy.

Day 3 was our port day. After overindulging at breakfast we hit Bruges which is a must at any time of the year but there are few cities more beautiful at Christmas than medieval Bruges, with canals, cobbled streets lined with historic buildings. Colourful lights illuminate festive stalls crammed with Christmas goodies, where shoppers can browse tables laden with elegantly-packaged chocolates, brightly-coloured sweets and unusual hand-made decorations and handicrafts, take time to sit and enjoy a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine.