An experience on the last operating "ocean liner" (versus cruise ships) was high on my must do list. The Queen Mary 2 (QM2) did not disappoint providing a much smoother sailing experience compared to luxury cruise ships operated by higher end companies. Most important to me was the fact that I never felt my bed shaking inside my midship cabin as I have on many occasions on "luxury cruise ships". Even when the Atlantic got choppy due to high winds; the QM2 kept her composure. Dancing in the ballroom was barely affected by the waves. The sail-away from Brooklyn, New York was picture-perfect and memorable.

While Cunard is owned and operated under the Carnival corporate umbrella; it has several distinctions a cut above the other marques. Embarkation and disembarkation were both well-organized, efficient, and comfortable. I really like that photographers did not bottleneck the procedures. Other cruise line photographers should do the same. The fact that several free launderettes and irons are available to guests on the QM2 is a real plus.

The QM2 benefitted from a recent refreshening of carpets, drapes, and some furnishings. She is kept clean and in ship-shape both inside and out. The library has over 9,500 volumes and is as beautiful as that on luxury ships. The teakwood promenades are wide, grand, and well-maintained. I really appreciate the good signage and ship diagrams throughout the QM2. Not only are ship maps provided during embarkation but also every level has several large, readable floor plan maps with "You are here" prominently shown for reference. Elevators are fast, plentiful, and easy to operate. I recommend other Carnival owned lines should emulate Cunard's signage and elevator efficiency aboard their ships. Read more