Queen Mary 2 (QM2) Review

First Time on QM2

Review for Trans-Ocean Cruise on Queen Mary 2 (QM2)
User Avatar
seagazers
10+ Cruises • Age 60s

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: Feb 2016
Cabin: Balcony, sheltered

The many hours travelled from Melbourne to Valparaiso to join the ship were rewarded with a relaxed,first few days on board.Our cabin 6092,hada sheltered balcony and was excellent.Cleaning staff were very thoroughand welcomed us by name throughout the voyage.We soon discovered that QM2 offered a quieter,more reserved style of cruising,which suited us fine.However,while we were firstly happy not to have the obligatory Calypso band on deck,after 16 days we kind of craved it! We found lots of nooks and crannies to sit and read inside,but were disappointed that the outside areas were limited to mainly just deck 7.Deck 6 had a small area with a pool and deck chairs.Upper deck had plenty of space,but no deck chairs,just a lunchtime cafe.The observation deck at the bow was excellent for viewing,but again,no seating .

The theatre shows at night grew to be more interesting,with magicians,comedians,acrobatic shows and themed groups-Beatles and Jersey boys.Sadly to say ,much more enjoyable than the shows the ships singers and dancers put on.We dined in the dining room every night (except one when we were ashore.)Totally enjoyed the food,the service,excellent wine list and our waiters were delightful.The meal sizes were elegantly small,but a mention to our waiters and an extra serving was added with no fuss.The shine of formal nights lost its lustre after about the 6th one-total of 9!-but we still participated,as did our 4 table-mates.We usually ate breakfast and lunch in the buffet,but did venture to the dining room for lunch when the menu suited us.

Trivia was a staple pass time at the English pub - it was on morning,noon and night-all good fun! Karaoke every 4th or so night as well and a guest talent show one night.Lecture subjects were diverse and frequent,we sat in on 3 or 4.Afternoon & night time movies were varied and enjoyable.

Cabin Review

Balcony, sheltered

Cabin BU

Well equipped bathroom,mini bar.Cabin steward was very thorough and welcoming.A few creaks during the night,but nothing too bad.The interconnecting metal door to next doors balcony rattled relentlously,day & night.Lots of coat hangers available and more than enough drawer space.Balcony furnishings adequate-2 lay back chairs and coffee table.Lighting was a bit too subtle,especially to read by.

Port Reviews

Moorea

A very enjoyable day.Our guide was well versed,funny and a delight!We were able to buy and taste local bananas and pineapple(so sweet).We stopped at 3 lookouts and photo stops throughout the tours,giving us ample time at each.

Auckland

We made our own way around the city,caught a bus which took us about 30 minutes away from the city,had lunch and returned to the city to dine ashore that night

Wellington

Again,an easy city to navigate on your own.We shopped,ate,explored Botanic Gardens took the scenic car up/down.Enjoyable day in a very nice city.

Tahiti (Papeete)

The rain bucketed down relentlessly which put a damper on the day.Explored the city for only about 2 hours before returning aboard.When the rain ceased in the late afternoon it was a lovely walk along the shore amongst the parkland.

Sydney (Australia)

An overnight stay in our home town gave us a relaxing end to our QM2 experience.Dinner on the dock at Circular Quay was excellent. QM2 looked majestic

against the background of the Sydney Opera House.

Santiago (Valparaiso)

We stayed in Santiago and travelled to Valparaiso by Cunard transfer bus.A very relaxing and on time experience.Embarkation was quick and effortless.

12 Helpful Votes
previous reviewnext review

Find a Queen Mary 2 (QM2) Cruise from $249

Any Month

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.