Will this ruffle some feathers regarding the QM2?

[koalabear6314]

Rula 40,

 

I believe your opinions are very valid, and after all, isn't it what this site is all about. I know if your a fan of Cunard and the QM2, it's unpleasant to see someone writing anything other than a perfect review, but if we always wanted perfect reviews, then we should stick to reading the cruise brochures.

 

Livin4cruzin,

 

Many thanks for your advice re the Todd English restaurant. Our only problem as I see it, is actually booking a table ! Has this become easier, do you think, since the surcharge has been applied. If not, wh's the best person to bribe, sorry I mean approach for a booking !

[Liv4cruzin]

Koalabear.....If you call for reservations at T.E. sometime during the first day, you can probably have your pick of times. It appears to be less crowded at lunch; and it's also less expensive for that meal.

 

Elaine61.....During my crossing, the Planetarium had 3 different "shows". My personal favorite was called "The Search for Life" which was narrated by Harrison Ford. The next favorite was "Infinity Express". And lastly was a show called "Stars Over the Atlantic" which was produced entirely by the staff onboard the QM2. If I may offer a little advice. There is a fairly small section of seats in Illuminations that is dedicated to Planetarium seating (they are the red upholstered seats). IMHO, the best seats in the house are in the next to last row as close to center as possible. (Back row seats don't "recline".) And heed the warning......"not suitable for guests suffering from epilepsy or nervous dispotition". There is stroble type lighting & fast moving sequences to throw your equilibium off. The whole concept of this type of show on a ship is quite fascinating to me.

 

Enjoy!

[LuAnn]

I think it is important for everyone on these boards to express their opinions and experiences and I appreciate you're willingness to provide those to us. Thank you for sharing...which I think is what these boards are supposed to be all about! LuAnn

[Jacques O]

Hello Rula40/ Phil,

 

I've read your post with interest. I'm booked for the back to back, leaving Soton on 14th October. I've sailed QE2 before to NY (one return crossing and one westward one). looking forward to the days at sea!

I've seen QM2 a few times, but never set foot on her!

I guess a 6-day crossing is perfect to explore the whole ship and its activities. Pity the quizz lasted such a short time.

- What was the age bracket of fellow passengers?

- did you use the indoor pool; How was it? It looks quite small. I anticipate it to be busy because the outdoor ones won't be popular (would be a bit chilly out there!).

- did you try the Canyon spa? I heard it is very expensive. But is it worth it?

 

Looking forward to reading you other posts.

 

Jacques O, in Paris.

[rula40]

Hi LuAnn

 

 

Thanks for your support, I have only had a few little digs from other members but I will continue with my other reviews over the next few days, that’s provided I have not been suspended

[rula40]

Hi Jacques O

 

 

I think you should be able to explore the wonders of the QM2 in the first six days, and also experience the entertainment, but don’t worry if you miss out on any of the events ours were repeated on return crossing, with the exception of a couple of guest appearances in the theatre, but as I said before the shows in the Royal Court theatre are excellent and worth a second visit.

 

 

I would estimate the average age of our fellow passengers on our crossings as around 70 years. During the “Wake up with Ray” TV show every morning he would announce the birthdays and wedding anniversary’s for the day and you would often hear Ray congratulating couples on their 40th and 50th wedding anniversary’s .

 

 

I did explore the indoor pool but did not use it, owing to the fact that almost all the seats around the pool were taken up by other passengers fully clothed and reading books, this was during the day even on the many warm sunny days we had during the crossing and return.

 

We did meet a couple who suggested we use the pool in the evening when most of the passengers were dining and the pool area was almost empty.

 

I did see a few people using the outside pool and Jacuzzi’s during the day, the water was lovely and warm but these areas were closed off early evening.

 

The Canyon Spa was excellent and not too expensive unless you intend making use of the many treatments they have on offer, then I suggest you make an appointment with you bank manager (See my Canyon Ranch Spa review).

 

 

Hope this helps and you have a great back to back crossing in October

 

 

Phil

[heywood]

Phil- I'm sure no-one is making 'digs' at you- you're just making everyone think and re-evaluate what life is all about! It's a bit strange though to envisage myself in the 'old' category. I'm a few years older than you with children around the same age / one younger - It's all in the mind (and the mirror!). Our crossing is to celebrate our 35th anniversary and I like much of the activities you have written about so am I turning into an old dear?

However, you are proving to be an absolute expert in our eyes so can you let me know about daywear (see these things don't bother me when I'm sunning myself on the beach in Fuerteventura).

The daywear is really for my husband-who likes to dress smart in the evening but daytime not too stylish (!). Just been reading on another site that daywear for men is slacks with jackets (he doesn't want to take too many bulky items as we are going off travelling in USA) and would not want to wear a sports jacket all day.

Does anyone wear shorts, 3/4 pants etc? Perhaps if we swim, gym and spa we won't have to take too many clothes!

Keep up the good work.

[LuAnn]

Rula...Again...thank you for your input...please keep it up and remember the world is made up of many different types of people, places and things! Thank Goodness! LuAnn

[rula40]

Hi Heywood ,,

 

 

I don’t consider myself to be an expert, but thanks for the complement.

 

Daywear was not a problem almost anything goes, shorts ¾ or knee length was common, there were of course a number of sports jackets and even ties or cravats, but they seemed to be in the minority. Although I must admit I did not have the courage to wear my favorite shirt which is a very loud Caribbean number “Key West” style.

 

I did read prior to my crossing that track suits were a no no but I wore mine during the day and did not feel out of place at all.

 

If you are considering dining in the Britannia restaurant for lunch then you are not allowed to wear shorts, but in any of the 4 Kings Court dining areas it’s very casual.

[LuAnn]

Rula...Are you serious? You can't wear shorts in the dining room for lunch? Get out? No way? LuAnn

[mufi]

Rula 40

 

Just in the interests of clarity, who were the "advantaged" passengers?

 

David.

[guernseyguy]

I do not apologize for my comments ...I agree that a cruise is completely different from a crossing I have done both on numerous occasions, but this was my first time with Cunard. One can only read and relax for a certain period, but there comes a time when stimulation is needed.

 

Phil,

 

Absolutely no need to apologise - the board is called Cruise Critic after all - and constructive feedback is always welcome. To give us some perspective of numerous cruises and crossings you have taken, could you illustrate with examples, so we'll know 'where you're coming from' as the cousins would say.....

[rula40]

Hi, mufi (David)

 

 

I have been asked to clarify what I consider to be “Advantaged”

 

I come from what I describe to be “Good hard working South London Stock” and the youngest of a very large family. My youth was spent participating in activities in our local youth clubs.

 

My friends naturally had a similar background; we were not privy to the more sophisticated and cultured way of life that was open to some of the more “Advantaged” youngsters of our own age.

 

I make no apology for my upbringing and preferences, but it is a fact of life that not every person is in the same social class.

 

I had a wonderful and happy childhood and thank my parents for doing the best they could for me under the circumstances.

 

That is why I stand firm in my own personal view that the QM2 caters primarily for the benefit of those who I consider to be “More Advantaged”

 

One evening in the Golden Lion Pub a family group walked in wearing very casual clothing, there were 2 young girls aged around 12-14 years wearing short summer skirts tee-shirts and flip flops, I must admit they did look out of place as most of the other passengers were wearing formal attire . A man standing at the bar said in quite a loud voice “What do you think New Money of a Lottery win?” The family group did not stay long and I am not sure if they heard the comment either way it seemed to put things into perspective for me.

[rula40]

 

Hi Peter.

 

 

Thanks for your reply,

 

We have had the pleasure of 2 crossings on RCI Legend and Splendor .2 Mediterranean cruises again with RCI Legend and another with Airtours. We did have a mini cruise with an American company on Dolphin11 but I try to forget that experience.

 

Whilst my CV does not make a cruise virgin I am in no way a seasoned cruiser. But I will continue to work at it.

 

 

Phil

[guernseyguy]

We have had the pleasure of 2 crossings on RCI Legend and Splendor .2 Mediterranean cruises again with RCI Legend and another with Airtours.

 

Hi Phil,

 

Much as I enjoyed my crossing on Brilliance of the Seas, I felt that RCI had quite a lot less organised stuff going on - not that it bothers me as I always seem to find the days disappear and the improving novels go unread! I particularly like the Cunard talks - excellent ones on the war in the Atlantic on my crossing.

 

Peter

[heywood]

I love this - it's the busiest I've seen this board since I took an interest in Cunard. I'm bothered that I will fall into my 'eyup there's trouble 't mill' ways if I am faced with some of these people. I suspect that lots of the passengers are like us- hard working - and enjoying a holiday after a year's labour. I'm not bothered about social classes/ money as long as people don't think they can judge because of that!

We have enjoyed two cruises- Celebrity's Galaxy and RC!- Splendour. Both the Med and I loved them. We had USA, English and some Spanish or Italian depending on the starting port. It was lovely hearing those different accents. Am I right in that a Southampton- New York sailing will have mainly English passengers? Not sure if that would be a good thing - we seem to get so hung up on money and breeding!!

[rula40]

Hi Heywood

 

 

I thought this thread would cause some discussion,

 

On your question of nationalities it was announced that there were some 400 Brits doing the back to back and I know there were a large number of Brits staying in NY for 3 days then flying home.

 

I would guess that the ship was mostly occupied by US citizens but I did meet a few German passengers.

[mufi]

rula40 - I think your experience on QM2 is very useful to others in that it illustrates the need for people to read the small print before booking. The QM2 was obviously an unfortunate choice for you as most of the activities aboard were of no interest to you. I would feel the same on some of the floating theme parks.

 

And it's worth remembering that all may not be as they claim. I once mentioned to a table companian that I did work in connection with the chemical industry. He somehow elevated me to being the owner of a large chemical company in the UK. Never had the courage to put him right.

 

Who's concerned with social class nowadays anyway?

 

David.

[rula40]

Mufi_ I did read as much small print as was available, I also asked as many questions as I could think of prior to my crossing, plus I read almost every thread posted on this message board, but alas I was still not prepared for what I considered to be a lack of across the board activities.

 

I thought the Oxford lectures in both the Royal Court Theatre and Illuminations were excellent and very interesting; I also thoroughly enjoyed the talks given by the author PD James. But do I really want to spend my well earned vacation being educated and informed.

 

I wish I had the benefit of examples of the daily programme and evening entertainment, and then maybe I would not feel compelled to share what some may consider being negative views.

 

By the way Just in the interest of clarity Who do you consider to be “Floating Theme Parks”?

 

Phil

[atticus]

Oh Dear,

 

My partner and I are booked to sail on the 20th Sept crossing, which we only booked this week as we thought it would be something different !

Have we made a huge mistake ? We're 34 and 41 respectively.

Needlepoint, scarf knotting, and ballroom dancing are not really our thing.

At least the standard of food appears to be something to look forward to.(Did you manage to get into the Todd English restaurant?)

We're booked in a B5 balcony (in hull doesn't make it sound very appealing). Is it common practice to have your cabin upgraded ?

I realise that everybody has different opinions/requirements on a ship like this, but please somebody, reassure us !!

 

 

Koala,

I am 34 and have traveled twice on the QM2 and have booked a third in 2006. I never felt bored while on the ship. The crossing will be what you make of it. My best suggestion is to meet your fellow passengers - some of my best memories are of the people I met on board and the fun we had together.

 

Check out the trivia quiz in the Golden Lion - be sure to sit at the bar and get a few hints from the bar staff. Late nights in the disco, wine tastings. Even karaoke can be a good laugh. Pre-dinner drinks in Commodore Club. Plenty to do if you meet the right people. Crew members are great to talk to - and have a drink (or a few) with. I know of a few passengers who "crashed" the pig and whistle - just another tale to tell for them! Great spa treatments - I recommend a scalp massage from Connie (curly, blond S. African, really lovely)

 

Hull balcony not that bad - on a crossing I wouldn't imagine you would want to spend that much time out there anyway. I liked leaving the door propped with a sofa cushion so I could hear the ocean at night.

[mufi]

By the way Just in the interest of clarity Who do you consider to be “Floating Theme Parks”?

 

Phil

0

 

This ?

 

 

 

Carnival Cruise Lines

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HOLIDAY

 

46,042 tons

Passengers: 1,486

733 feet in length

Decks: 10

Officers: Italian

Registry: Bahamas

Entered service: 1985

 

Quality Rating:

Value Rating:

 

 

 

"Best For People Who Want:

A Las Vegas-style atmosphere of non-stop entertainment, lively casinos, children’s activities, large cabins, good food and casual cruising style.

 

Should Be Avoided By People Who Prefer:

A sophisticated, upscale milieu; cabins with private verandas and a homey décor; casual elegance; personalized and attentive service; a low-key environment; vacationing without children".

 

Article continues below

 

 

 

"Onboard Experience:

When first introduced, Carnival’s chairman called Holiday, and her sisters Celebration and Jubilee (which no longer sails for Carnival), "Disney World for adults." From dawn till the wee hours there is activity aboard these Carnival sister ships. Holiday is for those who want the most active cruise experience (yet I’ve always found quiet nooks for reading or just watching the sea go by). During summer cruises you'll find hundreds of children while an older set cruises during non-holiday periods. This ship stands out in fitness facilities, with separate supervised programs for children grouped by ages.

 

Décor:

If you like Las Vegas, Holiday is for you. "Theme" décor abounds - high energy, glitzy and bright"

 

Please don't get me wrong, I just think that with all the information available here and in so many other places, no one should get a cruise/crossing which is unsuitable for them. You obviously did which was unfortunate for you. And a QM2 crossing most certainly is not for everyone. However I, along with I guess many other Cunard fans have read all that has been written on these boards about the ship since her launch. I believe most have been largely favourable although many, including me have had some disapointments to report.

 

Yours is as valuable as any.

 

David.

[Jeanne S]

Would add Royal Carribean's Voyager Class Ships (and maybe the Radiance Class too) with Rock Climbing Wall, In Line Skating, Minature Golf, Ice Skating Rink with Ice Capade Shows, Shopping Arcade with nightly parades (staff on stilts), Johnny Rockets, etc.

[Jeanne S]

Would add Royal Carribean's Voyager Class Ships (and maybe the Radiance Class too) with Rock Climbing Wall, In Line Skating, Minature Golf, Ice Skating Rink with Ice Capade Shows, Shopping Arcade and Royal Promonade with nightly parades (staff on stilts), Johnny Rockets, etc.

[atticus]

I second the carnival cruise ships.

 

Just isn't my thing - I don't want to see someone at dinner in a belly-baring dress a la Christina Aquilera.

[Jeanne S]

I second the carnival cruise ships.

 

Just isn't my thing - I don't want to see someone at dinner in a belly-baring dress a la Christina Aquilera.

 

Have been on both Carnival and Royal Carribean and it does matter somewhat where the ship sails to in that on Canada Sailings, there was not the type of dress you describe and the passengers were wonderful. However, I have been on a Carnival Cruise to Nowhere where one could say anything goes.