On QE at present ex Melbourne returning Friday We are Diamond members and Grills passengers and have priority with 1pm boarding time. We arrived by cab at 11.45 am having to be out of our hotel by 11.00am. The closest the cab could drop us still entail a walk to the baggage drop.
They started to board just after midday. No check of the times for boarding. We then had a very long walk along the pier to check in (no cars are allowed on the pier) After queuing for a short time we went into a priority queue. In our cabin by 12.45 in time for lunch at 1.00pm
We were facing the long walk with baggage on disembarking as no cars allowed on pier to pick up a cab. Have arranged coach travel to the airport $25 each
We have enjoyed the trip, the ship really good and the staff fantastic.
We will not join out of Melbourne again too much of a hassle. Can understand why Cunard and Princess have withdrawn home port Melbourne
Hope the above helps