We Went FOURTH CLASS on a Luxury Cruise Line - it cost us $5400!!

[@oopsydaisy40]

Funny story. We did the world cruise on the QM2 about five years ago. As you can imagine the laundry room was always busy especially as some machines were out of order. One day a crowd of us were waiting for a machine and lots of women were getting irate, saying this is not good enough on a world cruise etc etc. We noticed an officer in a white uniform coming towards us in the corridor and some women accosted him demanding to know when the broken machines would be fixed. Ladies, he said, I’m sorry I can’t help you. I don’t work on this ship. I’m the Admiral of the Fleet here to give a talk tomorrow! Well, some faces went very red! Next day, at his talk, he talked about the pirate waters we were navigating and said he had no fears in case of attack because he knew that the ladies in the laundry room could conquer any pirates that might appear!

[@tonyburgham4322]

Classic, DO NOT CROSS wives, it's too dangerous!! 😄

[@salpon]

lmao

[@juliewilson3237]

😂😂🤣🤣 never mess with a woman and her laundry requirements!!

[@sarahwebster1173]

Hell hath no fury like a woman with no clean knickers 🤣🤣

[@curious-traveler7730]

🤣

[@pegedey1291]

As a 70 yr old lady i can tell you dear Ben and David old is not any excuse to be rude! Thank you is the least that can be said. So sorry 😢and the heat in your room and oh my the rude neighbors! You two are always so thoughtful ❤

[@susie9893]

Unfortunately these days, the world seems to abound with these entitled people; no matter what age 😕 (My guess is that the guy who knocked the camera out of Ben's hands doesn't like KZbinrs, and pretended to be in a hurry to cover that. Not too bright though, if he'd caused damage the evidence would've been all recorded)

[@JoLeek-tj7vg]

We were on QM2 when the Queen died. Won’t ever forget being in the Chart Room when everyone stood, raised their glasses & said ‘God Save the King’. Felt like being on the set of Downton Abbey.

[@nancycurtis3964]

We were on for the Queen's funeral. The entire crew, staff, and passengers were extremely respectful, and some activities were cancelled during the funeral. It was broadcast all over the ship.

[@troyp9485]

@@nancycurtis3964 Well, that was proper for someone who dedicated her life to service

[@hunkhk]

Abolish the monarchy ... Let's move on

[@Venus20000]

@@hunkhkmove on to what? 😆

[@hunkhk]

@@Venus20000 anything other than those grifters

[@joeyjetson4362]

We were on the same crossing. Said hi the first day in the mad house of the buffet. So far good report. A few things we noticed different: We had an Inside cabin mid ship with a connection door (no cover) to the next cabin. There was a couple in the room and we never heard them. Cabin size was the same except for the lack of balcony. We would never use a balcony on the crossing too cold for us outdoors usually in the North Atlantic. Room steward was the only crew that seemed to go out of the way to be pleasant. We asked for a bed topper since the crossing we had in '23 the bed was hard. He suggested we try it since the beds have been replaced recently. Much improved and very comfortable. Got ice delivered every morning and evening. We had 2 robes and slippers in the room and used the robes. Price we paid was MUCH lower, bought in early December 2023. Service first night was so SLOW. We gave up after 2 hours and did not get deserts we ordered . Improved as the cruise went on. Was told by others they think the Ship had a bunch of new crew members because much of the staff was sent to the new ship. Our fare was $2993 for two plus gratuities. We did not do the drink packages. Cheaper than business class flights usually. We did 2 crossings in 2023 and the food quality is much lower. Thanks for your reviews.

[@ruthmauel3195]

It is a good thing that there is options for all types and classes of people. For instance, we stayed in an inside cabin, for "free" once and it it will only ever be once. I felt like I was in a broom closet or in the storage room in the basement of my house. Never ever again will I ever stay in a broom closet room no matter what the price is. We don't live within ocean view of water so "seeing" the water and weather and enjoying the opportunity to go outside onto our balcony any time, even in the middle of the night, is a part of the whole experience that we will never miss again. We are not snobs as I am quite fine to eat at McDonalds and I have been a life-long camper and have spent hundreds of nights sleeping in a tent which is why it is a natural fit for me that I need a balcony as I need and love to be outdoors whenever I want to, and to be able to experience the sunrises, sunsets and to watch everything happening outside which I do while wearing either my pajama's or sequenced evening gown. Thank You. If I can't afford a balcony room, then I wouldn't go on a cruise at all. It would be like going to a brand new exotic place in the world and taking the train to your destination, but for a cheaper price travelling in a train car without windows. What's the point of going if I can't see and experience the new world that is not my normal at home world if I have to live in a broom closet or to travel in a train car without windows and see nothing. The most incredible sights are when we least expect them and for that, paying a pittance extra for a cruise cabin with a balcony is worth millions more than the price we paid for it. Just saying, that I appreciate people who like inside cabins but I wouldn't ever stay in an inside cabin if I was literally paid money to be in it, never mind "free" as it was for my first and last time to be in an inside cabin. Thank You.

[@KT-sq2ml]

@@ruthmauel3195 but did you like the inside cabin?

[@prittygurl62887]

Every video I've seen of this cruise hypes it up. But these people stay in the highest class which is not realistic for most people. I think your video is a true representation of what the ship is like.

[@lisaparquettesilva6118]

I think it is hard to judge after one night - I’m curious to see how it progresses- we have traveled on QM2 multiple times and usually ocean view or interior- I have personally never encountered the problems shown in this video - we have always had excellent service in the MDR although it can be slow - we did have a set dining time with the same waiter each night - he got to know us very well an anticipated our needs before we asked - I hate to think the service is not as good if you choose anytime dining - I hope it improves as we have always had a lovely time on this liner !

[@birbluv9595]

I really feel Ben’s nostalgic feelings about the house they are leaving, where they made so many memories and got their channel started. His sadness is apparent in spite of dealing with the early morning, with the rain.

[@kevintunnicliffe2181]

One of the things I admire and value about your reviews is that you are completely objective. Keep it up chaps.

[@georgebetz5929]

Not so objective. Referring to it as a 4th class passage puts a negative spin on the review. QM2 does not have 4th class passages.

[@aimeerogers4542]

Older people of my generation are always complaining that younger people are rude and have no manners. I think being rude and having no manners transcends age. I'm sorry your cruise had to begin like this.

[@plasmaDave]

Being older does not make people nice/considerate unfortunately they often get grumpy. As my mum always said the difference between fine wine and vinegar is time and effort.

[@Mora41]

would bet they are americans. Queing for brits is like the norm.

[@johnathankain8033]

On my recent celebrity cruise it was all older Americans who were totally rude barging in front at buffet etc.

[@Cruisewith]

Luckily it’s just the minority, most people on cruises, regardless of age are lovely.

[@aprilrich807]

@@Mora41Not all of we Americans are that way, I promise you. 😊

[@wendywanderluxe6965]

Yikes about the rough start, but love how positive you both are! Whenever I have to stand in those long Guest Service lines on the first day, I always take a cocktail or glass of wine with me… it takes off the edge the whole situation and keeps me nice to everyone.😅😊

[@sewistnotsewer]

That's one of the better cruising tips I've heard in awhile!

[@1pamby1]

I agree! Excellent tip and I will be sure to practice it going forward! Thanks for sharing such a smart idea.

[@SarahHollywood-t1i]

I cant drink...pancreatitis. but I have other meds

[@jmcmoore]

I’ve done the same! 😂 Another tip to combat poor dining room drink service: I sailed Carnival in Sept-24, eight day cruise to the southern Caribbean out of Miami, and learned to grab cocktails (for 2) from the martini bar and bring them with me to the main dining room. We had an early dining hour, with a set table by the window- beautiful view, meh service. The servers did not reliably ask if you wanted a cocktail to start, if you did want one, it usually came as dinner was served. It always felt rushed- they wanted you OUT in a timely manner so next seating could come in. I much prefer late seating. I’ve sailed Celebrity many times and never had such dining service issues. Any time (morning, noon, night), in Celebrity’s main dining room, if I didn’t clean my plate, the servers ALWAYS asked if there was an issue with the meal. They would always try to remedy. Politely let your server know, to let the chef know, when a dish is sub-par. The chef once obtained a dish for me, from one of the specialty restaurants, because he thought that was a better dish than what I’d originally ordered from the MDR menu. Take names and send kudos & log complaints accordingly!!

[@kathleenHS]

“I hope Sandra’s ok” 😂nothing like knowing your next door shipmate before meeting your next door shipmate (lol). I so LOVE YOU both… these videos make my day!

[@shannonmcfarlane9370]

Thank you, than you, thank you, you are the only honest reviewers!!! Most just gloss over and want to sell us cruises, so all is always good. You two are the only real deal still out there

[@tonyburgham4322]

That's why Ben and David pay for their cruises. A lot of "reviewers" are paid/get free cabin to go on the cruise so are expected to give a good positive review.

[@birbluv9595]

I agree. These guys are the real deal.

[@stephenmiller6690]

Loved your comments on old people. At age 70 my motto is "you are only young once but you can be immature all your life. 😎

[@quizasusa3578]

I’m 73 and I also live that motto. Cheers! 😊

[@isabellind1292]

I don't like the word. "Old" implies "from the past" If we're lucky enough, we'll live a long life as is the natural progression in all humans. I say "elderly."

[@r.j.p.8502]

Early on in my medical practice I learned to always say "older," never "old."

[@mikemotorbike4283]

@@isabellind1292 I say "mature', so it always sounds like a compliment

[@isabellind1292]

@@mikemotorbike4283 Yes, I like that, as well.😊👍👍

[@lisaanderson8235]

The dust on that kettle! 😮 Oh my. I really love that balcony. What a nice amenity on a trans Atlantic crossing. As always, I appreciate how candid you are in your videos. You two tell it like it is!

[@mountaingirl5013]

In 1965 my family used Cunard, Queen Mary, to move to Europe. It was cheaper than flying the six of us to Germany. We returned to the US in 1970 the via Queen Elizabeth II, for the same reason. I was pretty young, three on the way and eight when we returned, but I remember bits and pieces. Main memory from 1965 trip was a storm where they wet three tableclothes to keep the food/plates from sliding off the dining tables. Chairs where somehow attached to the tables as well. My child/high chair was not.... I went sliding across the dining room. Apparently I thought it was quite fun. In 1970 most memorable was getting up early to see the Statue of Liberty as we arrived back in the States for the first time in five years.

[@twochickens3954]

My family did the crossing on the SS France in 1969. I remember just a few bits like standing on the deck looking down what seemed like a mile to the water, the Versailles vibe of the dining room, the cramped accommodations. I was not quite 4 years old so my memories could be off but it’s definitely a conversation starter sometimes. We arrived in Liverpool where my Dad bought a 1970 model classic red and white VW Microbus. Drove up to Scotland to check in with the clan 😁 before heading to Switzerland. (edited to fix the date)

[@danasandoval624]

No matter the age of a ship or if the crew is new. People pay for & expect clean rooms, clean ship overall, good food, positive & good service & attitudes from the staff and a good experience. Even if the crew is new they have been trained & unless they were raised under a rock they should have manners, respect and a good attitude for the passengers. Don’t get me wrong I have zero tolerance for any passenger being rude, demanding or mean to staff. Their job is to see the passengers have a good experience & good vacation. I always love your videos they make my Sunday. You don’t sit in front of a camera & talk, if I wanted that I could go stand in front of a mirror. Your jokes are so hysterical & always appreciated not like some others that think they are funny & aren’t & spend 3/4 off their video trying to be a standup/sit down comedian & singer. Their singing is bad too. You two are so happy, fun, informative, honest & make us feel like we are right there with you. Thank you Ben & David you are the best in cruise videos by far. Please don’t change anything! 🐾🐾😺😺❤️❤️🐾

[@jamesb.492]

they keep abusing that narrative "the crew is new" for ages ...

[@pickypants9696]

So far this cruise is looking like a big thumbs down. It will be interesting to see if the low quality and bad service continues through the rest of your cruise.

[@jamesb.492]

I just spent 7 weeks aboard QM2... their review is spot on. ... the food and beverage manager should get waterboarded😂

[@willexart]

My dad used to be a dance host on the Cunard ships, he also went on Fred Olson and silver seas. He watched first hand the standard drop on the Cunard ships. It’s disappointing compared to what it used to be like.

[@susanbolton-hk5yn]

I'm in my 80s but not for me. Sounds dreadful Really. Feel sorry for you having to endure 7 days of this

[@gwynethglas-brown9171]

When i saw your meal Ben ( dog food came to mind🫣 its definitely didn’t looked like a classic dish at all 😲. Hope things improved on your transatlantic crossing 🙏🤞 take care safe travels 🥰

[@jamesb.492]

@@gwynethglas-brown9171 some of the food in the buffet restaurant .. my French bulldog would not have touched 😆🤣

[@kaunas88]

I like the printed daily guide because I can carry it around with me in my pocket, and then take it home as a souvenir. The printed guide is much easier to read than trying to see something on my phone.

[@idl9ave419]

Longtime Cunard cruisers here, so clearly we are biased in favor of the line. Our last cruise was the Christmas and New Year's trip to the Caribbean (in a deck 5 cabin with a 'hull balcony', similar to yours). The QM2 staff made the holidays on board super-festive. We booked again for next year. Hope your trip improved. And don't worry about being in one of the less expensive balconies. No one cares. I've seen more class resentment on Norwegian, where the Haven passengers get to skip the lines, take the best theater seats, and enjoy their keycard-access only lounges- while the rest of us huddled masses look for a sun-lounger that isn't already claimed. By the way, no one calls the Britannia cabins "fourth class". The whole ship knows that Britannia has the most impressive dining room, in decor, if not food. (And the Britannia food is usually fine. The Grills passengers have chosen to pay extra for a quality of presentation that isn't possible in a big dining room.)

[@bodyloverz30]

On QEII, they had a Four Class Dining program, correct?

[@idl9ave419]

@@bodyloverz30 - Yes, the two-seating Mauritania dining room, the single seating Caronia dining room, the Britannia and Princess Grills which were at the same level, and the Queens Grill.

[@bodyloverz30]

@@idl9ave419 So Oceanview & inside cabins were in economy minus. But I bet that, was better than what they are serving now.

[@randall8379]

@@bodyloverz30 The QE2 had 1st class. Then tourist or whatever they called it. Nobody referred to anything else and no-one on the Queen Mary refers to 2nd, 3rd or 4th classes. That's your peculiar nomenclature,

[@bodyloverz30]

@@randall8379 They had Grill Class, First Class, Second Class, Third, & Fourth. Inside cabins ate in a different dining room.

[@seanmurphy3753]

45 minutes into dinner and no 🍸🍸 drinks? I’d jump off ship. Thanks guys for this video. You just saved me $10,000

[@randall8379]

I'd get up if I had to to find the wine steward or manager. Actually I'd look at the menu in the afternoon and choose the wine I want and tell the wine steward to have it in an ice bucket if a white and possibly decanted of a red before I arrived.. I have done that any they complied.

[@gizachick]

I had a really good time and good experience on the QM2 last September. 7 night Eastbound crossing, Britannia Inside, under $2000 for the entire cabin, good food (main dining was very accommodating of food allergies), good service, room was clean, included room service arrived in a timely manner, the ship was clean and in good order, interesting entertainment, included launderette, room was very quiet. Yes, the ship has a bit of an ‘old world’ feeling to it but that’s part of why people choose it. I really had no complaints.

[@ChrisFrameOfficial]

Thanks for the review, Ben & David. Great to share the experience - good and bad - with you! I think sometimes the public forget that Queen Mary 2 is not a cruise ship and therefore her design reflects her purpose as a transatlantic liner. Positioning of public spaces on board - even down to the location and layout of Kings Court - are the way they are in part for stability and buoyancy purposes. Sounds trivial but when you factor in the stresses that the Atlantic will put on a hull over 40+ years, the weight and balance of all the internal areas must be a paramount consideration. The ship's federal grey / black hull, while impressive from a distance, is regularly battered and bashed by the Atlantic weather which does impact the paint. This is a very good reason why Cunard and many other lines maintained a dark hull on transatlantic ships. It hides the wear and tear easier at a distance! Check out photos of most of the great transatlantic liners of a bygone era and it's fairly similar across the board. Even more so when you look at QE2 during her 1983 repaint into a light grey hull - what a mess that was! At 20 years old, QM2 is mid-life-ish now, so hopefully Cunard maintain a high standard on board the ship both service and refurbishment / maintenance as she's got a lot of life left in her. QM2 remains my favourite of all ships in service, though I will say after sailing on Queen Anne ... it is going to be tough to go back to the shower curtains and plastic-clad bathrooms of QM2, QV and QE 🤣

[@BoatMan-y6o]

Wow Chris Frame!!

[@jeannecrawford6324]

Ben and David, you are by far my very favorite vloggers! Your absolutely honest reviews are something I can count on 100%. I hope you've been able to settle into your new house. I'm sure it'll be beautiful. I had a thought. Whenever a cruise line has a new ship, they transfer the best of the best employees to the new ship. It seems like the Queen Mary 2 has the new or possibly not the best crew members or so it seemed by the dining room staff and possibly the chefs. All the good ones are working the Queen Anne now. Your first night's dinner was anything but appetizing looking and tasting. I hope your cruise improved as the week progressed. We shall see. 🤩

[@enjoystraveling]

I’ve been on that voyage four times so far starting from the time before Covid since I enjoyed it so so much What are my favorite things were the lectures, there was a lecture for the man from Greenwich, giving the astronomy lecture and showing the most wonderful film that made feel like you were an outer space and then there was a woman from Woodhall, Massachusetts evening, oceanography lecture, and showing her underwater films. And another favorite thing was treating myself to latte while sitting on one of those nice lounge chairs overlooking the ocean outside, keeping myself warm enough with a blanket stretched out with a book

[@suburbanbanshee]

My parents saw a P.D James lecture a few years before she died.

[@rogerharris990]

We were on that trip with PDJames

[@brigitteravenscroft8982]

We went on QM2 last year snd had a fabulous time. We stayed in a connecting cabin on deck four. We didn’t hear a thing from the cabin next door. Maybe our neighbours whispered to each other. We also got robes in the wardrobe. We loved the sheltered balcony and being close to the water. You included 60 year olds as being really old. Really don’t consider myself as being that ancient! 😂

[@jamesb.492]

Just spent 7 weeks aboard QM2 ... one night the comedian joked "the average age aboard QM2 is ... deceased" 😂😂😂

[@randall8379]

They don't seem to like older people, do they?

[@Lovesapuzzle]

Old isn't necessarily bad. As long as it's clean, comfortable and accommodating, I'm happy.

[@KrisKk08]

Disney Magic is much older as Ben said, but kept in top shape. Shiny as a new penny.

[@admiralpicard2010]

Are you talking about the ship or the passengers 😂

[@Lovesapuzzle]

@@KrisKk08 Same goes for the Wonder. I really like those smaller ships. All the Disney with less walking and fewer people.

[@Lovesapuzzle]

LOL Both!

[@Cruisewith]

Totally agree! One of our favourite ships is 6 years older than the Queen Mary 2!

[@TonyLon]

As a Cunard fan (3 transatlantics done on QM2) I really hope that the service & food improve for you as the trip progresses, and that you manage to get to see all the unique features of the ship (I love the pub, the library and the enrichment lectures in particular). You're right to point out that the some of the decor (especially the cabin bathrooms) is looking a bit tired but then it is a ship that's done 20 season criss-crossing the North Atlantic so I'm prepared to give it some slack, and the overall Art Deco feel of the public spaces makes up for it in my eyes. (And those brand new carpets - refreshed last year - are a big improvement!) And as for the "Fourth Class" comments. I think the differences on Cunard are far less than the "ship within a ship" divisions that you're now getting on the mainstream cruise lines (eg The Haven on NCL or Yacht Club on MSC), and as the vast majority of passengers are in Britannia cabins you really don't feel you're getting a substandard experience.. And in my opinion the grandeur and the decor in the Britannia MDR is far superior than the other restaurants (even the Grills) and the Britannia Club restaurant experience (where it is just in a small section of the MDR) is not really worth the extra you have to pay on the base fare. Jealous of you doing the crossing in a summer month as have only done it mid winter (where all those acres of outside space are not really used!) On Queen Anne next month so will be very interesting to see what a brand new Cunard ship is like...

[@dianecranker6026]

CONGRATULATIONS on your new home!! Love you both! 💙💙🕊

[@honestdelivery]

I thought you were going to say 'David has just gone into Greggs to get me a jacket'.

[@danadarby8961]

That's what I thought he was saying at first also lol It took me a minute I was thinking they sell donuts and jackets 😅

[@sewistnotsewer]

Me too! I thought maybe Greggs was like a US Target or Walmart store. 😆

[@SuperDrLisa]

Me too! Coffee is just as good!

[@keepitsimple3856]

Me too!!

[@claudiafantone6085]

Me too! I thought he was going to say jacket too!

[@chrisoutdoors]

You're correct, it was an equipment problem. You were using a left-handed golf ball. I've made that mistake as well, and only realize it when the ball flies straight into the woods. When they're not marked "L" or "R" that's really the only way to tell them apart. Great video, as always 👍🚢

[@deneenlucchesi1702]

Hi guys! My husband & I were on the same exact cruise! We saw you briefly in the buffet and just said a quick "hello, we love your channel!" We absolutely agree with this review! She's getting old and some of the crew are getting cranky. It was our 2nd crossing and we would do it again if the time lined up just because it's so much cheaper than a business class flight. Our 1st crossing was in Princess grill, totally NOT worth it. Britannia was fine. Basically, that's our review in a nutshell, "it's fine." Keep up the good work!

[@Cruisewith]

Hi there! Thanks for saying hello and for loving our channel! It’s great to hear from fellow passengers.

[@achmadosman9807]

We did a cruise on Queen Victoria and promised ourselves not to cruise Cunard ever again. You reaffirmed all the issues we did not like about the line.

[@ritafreeman3252]

Same here we did 21 days med cruise apart from the beautiful places we visited hands down celebrity and RCL were so much better 🇦🇺

[@deborahworpell9516]

Exactly!

[@denisemarie3734]

It would be cool if you posted your steps you guys averaged on ur trip and let us know when you do price breakdowns.

[@SueBradbury-b1v]

I cruised the QM2 from New York to Southampton in Oct 23 solo Britannia class and the food and service throughout the whole trip was superb.

[@nicnac_nyc]

It was great to meet you both on this voyage! So sorry to see you had such a poor first impression with your cabin and dinner service/meal. I sensed that the crew was quite flustered/overwhelmed that first day. I found the service much improved by the second day. However, we were in the Queen’s Grille and I can assure you our dinner on embarkation day was most certainly better than what you appear to have received. Hoping your experience improved!

[@simongibson654]

Ferry style service, dressed as a cruise, if you ask me! Rooms, dinner etc. If you are on a ferry for a night or two, you get on with it. But for £5k+ on a 7 day transatlantic you expect a bit more!

[@patriciad.7309]

Great video as usual, thank you! My husband and I were on the QE2 from Southampton to New York in 1993 - we were living in Germany (Canadian Forces) and were being posted back to Canada. You could either fly back or take the money and book a crossing by ship., so we jumped at the chance. We were lucky enough also to take our car with us (I remember there were 18 spots for passengers' cars). This was the first ever cruise for both of us and we thought it was absolutely lovely (and to be honest, I don't have any memories of the 'class' system, I thought it was all so luxurious). The food was delicious, including afternoon tea complete with white glove service, and the crew were lovely. It was quite a rough crossing though (mid-June), and also the ship was starting to show its age; I remember there were issues with the toilets in the staterooms, not very pleasant! But all in all we thoroughly enjoyed it. I have to say the most shocking thing about this video was the dust on the kettle - we've been on quite a few cruises in the last few years and have never seen anything like it!

[@CitizenMio]

The thing with ocean liners is they are out there most of time and taking a serious beating. This means that compared to cruiseships that hop from calm port to calm port, there is very little time between sailings to do some proper maintenance. That also makes them more likely to get dated and show their age. Which gets compounded by the fact that much of the ship is a confusing labyrinth, because of design considerations that make it survive the seas and let you keep your lunch in. The concept itself is also pretty niche with so many days at sea and that attracts a specific crowd. Nothing wrong with lovely old people, hopefully we'll all get to live to be that age some day. But once the average age starts hitting 70+ it will obviously start to show xD Lines will be longer because older people tend to be slower or just need a bit more help. The food will also be blander, because spicy foods don't sit as well with older western people. Service will be slower, because they're not in a rush so less likely to complain. (Which can also be a good thing). Add in ridiculous pricing and a bit of snobbery and things aren't looking great. Which is a shame, because I really love the allure of the golden age ocean liners, their look and design. Plus the journey is just so iconic. But I'd really want to do that on a stylishly new ship inspired by those glory days and designs, with excellent service. Not be on a ship that looks like it's actually been going back and forth for 120 years, passengers included🤪

[@patm3814]

Great comment ! Excellent points !

[@KrisKk08]

Wonderful comment. Insightful.

[@musicfan1314]

Went on the QM2 southampton to New York back in 2016. To celebrate my 18th birthday and my parents 25th anniversary. Always wanted to go to New York, so this was a special treat. My mum thought it was boring there was a lack of entertainment on board (mostly just quizzes in the pub). The only entertainment we found worthwhile was when they showed movies in the skyline. Probably went there every day🤣. Our cabin did have a balcony, but there was a life boat right in front of it, so we didn't enjoy much of the sea views. I do remember one time there were window cleaners who came up right to our balcony and see right in while my mum was getting dressed. She was shocked and astonished as we were not notified. She did complain to customer services who did give us an apology bottle of champagne. When we arrived to New York it was about 3am and we woke up super early to watch the ship going under the bridge and to get up close to the statue of liberty which was a certain highlight of the trip. All in all, it did have it ups and downs. But it was once in a lifetime we all can now say we have done.

[@John_Locke_108]

Isn't 4th class for the little kids who fill the engine furnace with coal?

[@gabrielladiaz6933]

😂😂

[@kashaya220]

You mean… meet Leonardo and dance with him?

[@elaine4498]

I have to say 60s is not old thank you!!!! Great video.

[@SarahHollywood-t1i]

O yeah it is...any day now you get a free wake up surprise everyday for the rest of your life. A new problem with your body. Enjoy.

[@irishfergal]

What a wonderful honest review, fellas. I'm so sorry that the other guests and many of the crew were rude,. I hate people who refuse to say "Thank you" when you've just given them your taxi, or the "Apres vous, madame" or held the door for anyone. That rudeness is never excusable.

[@wasabisf]

My partner and I did the QM2 crossing from Southampton to NYC in October 2015. It was great. We had a sheltered balcony, like you guys, which was quite unique. A great way to be outdoors but still protected from bad weather. It was very romantic and we'd do it again. The weather varied from perfectly calm to Force 3 wind that caused the outdoor decks to be closed. The views from the Commodore Lounge of the enormous waves crashing against the bow was an unforgettable experience. Bon Voyage!

[@brucerosburg7185]

Took that ship years ago, from NY to Southampton - went to visit kennels everyday - played with the dogs

[@chriswinchell1221]

We took our first eastbound crossing in 2004 on QM2 in a Queens Grill suite. Outstanding in every way. Our next was in 2008 on QM2 in a Britannia sheltered balcony cabin - we took a group of 40 from our church on a 3 week tour of the UK. We had that big round Britannia table every night plus the surrounding 6 tables - food and service were outstanding. Not surprised she's aging a bit but the experience is totally unique - love Cunard...SO British! Hoping to relive it again soon.

[@AlexandraKimball-rr8xb]

I'm curious about the price of $5400! I booked a Britannia Oceanview cabin for an 8-day TA in July (so also "4th class"), and with 2 of us sharing a cabin it cost us $2200. That was the ordinary deal, not a special one. I booked one meal at a specialty restaurant ($40/2). We decided not to get their drinks package since only one of us drinks alcohol, but we've budgeted $100/day. There are obviously no exclusions on a TA! So we're still only a hair over $3000. That's about the same as 2 business-class tickets. How did you two come to book the same category/class for twice as much money?

[@B1ll1709]

The price obviously varies with the time of year, but I agree the price B & D paid was at least twice as much as what I’ve seen advertised regularly.

[@patricianolan5053]

So pleased you me mentioned the manners thing when I went on a cruise I was totally astounded by the lack of simple manners and respect love your presentations ❤

[@matthewhumphries8373]

Thanks so much for an honest appraisal of Cunard, which came at the perfect time for me. I was just about to book 2 Cunard cruises based on the clearly biased and glowing reviews of multiple UK KZbin cruise channels. Well I definitely will not be booking now and it is making me seriously question the integrity of other popular cruise channels (whereas you are always fair, balanced and unbiased).

[@debrathomson252]

We did our first ever cruise on the QE last year and loved it so much that we have booked again this year. Cunard ships are different. If you want Art Deco furnishing and colour schemes, amazing libraries, dancing, games like croquet, chess, bridge, bowls, housie, quizzes, watching the ocean then it is for you. They don't have water slides, zip lines, wave riders, go carts etc but it also means they don't have a lot of children, teens and young adults with the issues and often behaviours they bring. We love the idea of dressing up for dinner and the themed nights again if this is not for you there are plenty of other cruise lines out there. We stayed in balcony cabins with 3 to a cabin and found we had plenty of room but seldom spent any time in it as we were to busy doing things. The staff we found were helpful, polite, friendly but very busy as they were there to work. We ranged from 27 to 73 in age and everyone was happy.

[@jamesb.492]

Most people I met booked deals usd 100 per person per night. At that price it's ok.

[@johnathankain8033]

@@debrathomson252 none of that excuses poor food or bad service.

[@beckymungo1333]

My husband makes sausage gravy. And homemade southern style biscuits. It was wonderful. He made it this morning.

[@paulgerrard9227]

Uk biscuits are nothing like us biscuits. They are the us equal to canadian hockey pucks.

[@brianb2837]

Hey Ben and David! Hope all is well in the new house and things got settled with any difficulties you had! Wow! Lots of great cruises coming. This is so amazing and cool!

[@alisong2328]

We're dealing with cicadas🪳and tornados 🌪️ here in the American Midwest. I would love to be on a cruise right now! 🚢 I appreciate being able to travel vicariously through my favorite dynamic duo! 🧑🏼‍🦲🧔🏻‍♂️❤

[@juliettecoleman9421]

We’re off on a Disney transatlantic in October and couldn’t work out whether to park at LGW and get a train or cab to Southampton. You’ve cleared that up for us! Thank you Ben and David ❤

[@kimc555]

Been looking forward to this video for ages. Wish we had Greggs in Canada! I’d go for sausage and bacon sandwich. With brown sauce. And a big cuppa tea. Yorkshire please. Love from Vancouver! 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@jenniferalldred7215]

Tim Horton’s was amazing like being in a toy shop at Christmas 😊

[@scottydoggymama]

love the little Greggs jab, I always get a sausage roll or two when I go home. If I see a rum raisin ice cream on a menu I am on it like a kid on a smartie. Ritter sport rum raisin hazelnut bars are my fave

[@suburbanbanshee]

If you ever see rompope flavored Mexican ice cream, it is like eggnog crossed with rum raisin.

[@RDKivett]

My first ever cruise was the QM2 from New York to Southampton in January 2010. After booking people told me I shouldn't have booked a transatlantic cruise in winter as my first cruise but I ended up loving it and have been on many cruises since.

[@Cruisewith]

What a memorable first cruise experience! A transatlantic crossing in winter is definitely a bold choice, but it's great to hear you loved it and have been cruising ever since. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@StillPooh62]

I'm watching wearing headphones, and when you were giving the cabin tour I actually thought you must have turned the television on, because I could hear a woman speaking so clearly it sounded like she was in the room with you. Between that and the nasty food, I'm feeling bad for you being trapped on a weeklong crossing, without even port visits to break up the monotony.

[@kaunas88]

Thank you very much for your honest review which helps so many people in making an informed decision. We appreciate it.

[@SUSANX-rj2tt]

I love this beautiful ship. Have sailed on her many times. Funny, when you mentioned the problem with the room cards…I had that issue twice. But only when I was on Deck 4 and Deck 5. Now I always travel deck 11. The key card issue has never been a problem on that deck. Still Britannia of course, but I do love deck 11. QM2 is an annual event for me. (I hate flying and my family lives across the pond) The entertainment is fabulous! I saw Alan Cumming in December and he was so entertaining and funny. Also Roger McGuinn was on that voyage and I was captivated by his presentations every day. I have had acting lessons, dance lessons, computer lessons on board. I just love it. I am not in your demo, however. But of course, I love you both to bits!

[@butchie54]

For that first main dinner, you should have had the server take it back and order something else, no charge for either meal. People have an issue about speaking up when things aren't right. Hope the cruise improved.

[@enjoystraveling]

I don’t have any problem about speaking up when things aren’t right, but I do it politely and I try to do it right away and save specifically what the problem is

[@enjoystraveling]

Speak up if things aren’t right, there shouldn’t be a problem about speaking up as long as you do that politely and right away.

[@rebeccabrown5014]

Perhaps Ben would have said something if the service wasn’t so slow and unhelpful. Another passenger said they never even got their dessert the first night.

[@enjoystraveling]

@@rebeccabrown5014 that sounds very frustrating

[@peiginthecity]

Thanks for doing a Britannia class cruise guys - I’ve only ever seen KZbinrs in the grill classes. Have to say the cabin/bathroom colour scheme and some of those staircases are giving me nursing home vibes 😮

[@JilSpangenberg-ys7fz]

Exactly what I thought. LOL

[@karengilsdorf9753]

❤

[@sewistnotsewer]

Reminded me of the same!

[@jamesb.492]

that's exactly the target audience 😂

[@Anasteroiddestroyer]

I am sorry but your cabin stewart should have sorted your keys whilst you were at lunch. They failed at the first hurdle and didn't apologize. Unacceptable.

[@lindareavey425]

Your thumbnail for this video is priceless, well done.

[@Cruisewith]

Thanks!

[@claudiafantone6085]

I love it too! Nice pic guys!

[@rogerharris990]

In 20?? We paid $740 each for inside cabin. Met a couple who only booked the day before sailing and only paid $490!

[@l.faraday8767]

I think you’ve convinced me to eschew the ship you’re on. Thank you for being honest. 🇨🇦😎🇨🇦

[@joehall7883]

Me, too.. I was just about ready to book a summer ‘25 transatlantic until I started reading reviews at cruise critic..I changed my mind.

[@platoschauvet]

something about ben trying to play golf makes me want to hang out with you guys so much. You just have the best vibes. Binging all your videos, and love them so much, thanks for the fun!

[@Sushigrl1029]

I could not deal with being able to hear your cabin neighbors so clearly. It’s like they are in the room with you. Absolutely no

[@Lovesapuzzle]

If you can hear them, they can hear you. I would feel the need to whisper.

[@julietalley7087]

Ear plugs work fantastic on noise

[@carolynrose9522]

Talk loudly so they get the idea they can be clearly heard

[@johndorning3328]

I always love your videos and am especially interested in your take on Cunard. One thing I would recommend to anyone sailing in Cunard: stick to the set early or late seating and don’t to the open seating. You’ll have the same servers every evening and much better and personal service overall. I recommend the second seating, but either one will be an improvement over the open seating.

[@willexart]

I’m not sure I agree with how you are describing the class system. From what I understand most people are normal passengers and then a few select suites are the ones that have access to private dinning rooms. Are you able to do a breakdown of how many passengers are in the various classes please or a percentage?

[@Lightcode]

As a fellow lover and appreciator of food, I have so much sympathy pain for you in retrospect over that meal. It just looked absolutely horrible. Like tales of overcooked bland days gone by. Hope the rest of the voyage was better and thank you again for taking us with you.

[@CathyS_Bx]

Noise-cancelling ear buds seem like a must in a situation where you can hear the people in the next cabin so clearly. I would not travel anywhere without noise-cancelling ear buds AND noise-cancelling headphones. Do wish this wasn't necessary.

[@annmillar1481]

I agree with you. I am a nurse, but some oldies seem to have forgotten the basic please and thankyou. Sort of over that sense of entitlement

[@mm-yt8sf]

do you get a price discount if you sign a life boat waiver and agree to cosplay as a peasant? oh wait it's not quite medieval, right? 😛 oh well close enough

[@Cruisewith]

Haha, that would be quite an experience!

[@julibeswick-valentine3690]

I sailed on this liner in August 2005 on a 12 day mediterranean cruise and again May 2007 trans Southampton to New York (free flight home), both Princess Grill. It looks like there have been many cut backs since then. The ship was wonderfull and quite grand. The service was second to none, the crew were so friendly and obliging. The food and service was top notch all the time. In those days you had turn down and chocolates at night and a newspaper every morning. Those were the days when they still made you feel special.

[@debrathomson252]

Unsure about Queen Mary but QE still has nightly turn down including pulling out and making up the sofa beds, Chocolate on the pillows and if you request it a paper in the morning. Also unsure what happened to there dressing gown and slippers as all Cunard cruise ships have them. Just ask your cabin steward if they are missing

[@louisewhite9152]

Hi Ben and David - I hope you’ve had a lovely week and that you’re having a good bank holiday weekend - unfortunately on Tuesday I had some bad news that my multiple sclerosis has progressed some more but I’m staying positive as I can be - as you know I love my Sunday evenings especially as it’s your Vlog/video night ~ and I’ve had my medication early so it means I can settle down and watch you both - have a brilliant week - sending loads of love and loads of hugs to you both ~ Xxx Xxx

[@rlk3490]

I can not do anything but wish you well and send lots of hugs, Louise!

[@dawnbanerdt-adams8356]

I'm so sorry to hear about your multiple sclerosis. I have a friend who has that. Hugs to you, and hope things get better for you.

[@Shello58]

🙏🫂&❤from🇨🇦 I was diagnosed with MS decades ago but am in "remission." Which really means they misdiagnosed my broken neck (which was immediately fixed) and never changed the misdiagnosis because it was too embarrassing. They keep 'following up and saying I'm in remission🙄

[@ZartelleRose-y1k]

take care Louise. Hope you have a great night.

[@louisewhite9152]

@@ZartelleRose-y1k hi it’s only Louise thank you so much for your message. I’m just waiting for the nurses to give me evening medication as I live in a rehabilitation centre ~ have a great week Xxx

[@mommynab]

I just returned from a week in NYC and I found several rude😬 people, but also some that are very kind. I was getting annoyed, even tearful but I realized its just the state of the world.🌎 Stay positive.

[@richardsonmarcus21]

I just wanted to take a minute to thank you Ben and David, I have been going through a rough patch in life and honestly watching these videos brings a smile to my face, seeing how genuine and honest you both are is so heartwarming, keep up the wonderful work and all the best wishes from Eugene Oregon USA

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, I've been hoping to see you both on Cunard, and here it is! I cruised on the QM2 coming from NYC to Southampton back in December, and found the ship to be in really good order. It's interesting to hear what you were saying about the buffet feeling quite 'basic' - I did think that it was fine for my price point (I stayed on the inside), but not sure I'd have been thrilled if paying for a balcony or suite-grade. I did find the ship to be beautiful though - I was onboard right after the last refit though, so I wonder if they're relaxed standards a little now... Hope not!

[@Cruisewith]

A few people commented that they sailed only three or four years a go and it was totally different.

[@daw6112]

So Cunard have noise issue with interconnected cabins that they have known about for 21 years and the customer service know well, that bit of acoustic curtain has been their fob off solution that they have been using for all that time😮 that cabin has a fundamental problem that is well known but they still continue to let it out ? What😮

[@debrathomson252]

People choose to book it. Why if you don't want an adjoining cabin. Would suit our party of 6 fine.

[@philmason8869]

I used to work on board as a chef, I was lucky enough to be onboard for the last ever tandem transatlantic crossing with the QE2. love the ship and hopefully one day I will be back as a guest

[@joanevans3872]

I loved the Queen Mary 2.. in 2015 my first cruise ever rom Quebec to NYC ..I loved the 'old style" of cruising , (didnt mind the old style - accepted rust in the balcony ... and the bathroom) and old style cruising, part of the keeping in mind my first cruise ever...from an Australian point of view, it was so fabulous. I had an 'obstructed" balcony view ,, cheap version of balcony, ok, i;m cheap, as going thru the airlines discount sites...which are very good!! ..my view was great, no complaints ... the meals were great, although my dinner companions ( I was a solo pax..) . and had mainly british companions, who did kind of treat me a a 'colonial;' may be I should have been more expansive on my exploits!!! but last night found an american who was interested and didnt give me the colonial vibe, but was wanted to know whats Australiais NOW. ... If I had been with you two, it would have been soooooo different, and really funny ... love to go on a cruise with you two ...let me know of you do a cruise with 'people' ... as i've said I'm QF staff can got to UK to meet up with you're with easy accessibility ...xxxxx

[@robincarroll7027]

We ALWAYS travel with a white noise app on our phone. Many different sounds to drown out any noise. It’s a must from hotels and cruise ships!!!!!

[@julesrann]

Wow, looks like you booked with Cocoon Cruises. Shocking all round, so please we saw this, was looking to book for my wife’s Bday, not now! 😢.

[@donmartin986]

Your train will come in! It'll arrive sooner than you think.

[@bitesize326]

You weren't kidding about hearing your neighbors i thought that was the tv in your cabin playing.

[@janeveal2939]

I’m 60 and don’t consider myself old and often complain about the oldies! We have been on a couple of Regent Seven Seas cruises and it seems the more you pay for your cruise, the ruder you can become! We would often open doors for people to let them pass and don’t get an acknowledgment, so would loudly say thank you! Generally our rude people were from the other side of the pond. Manners don’t cost a penny or cent xx

[@isabellind1292]

"Elderly!!!!"😊

[@terrifromm5085]

I'm surprised the food and service are below par for Cunard. Hopefully things get better. Happy Cruising.

[@Buddy869-z9x]

This is proof that you guys don’t necessarily require a great experience to make a great video 😍 I look forward to more of the story!

[@global.explorer]

I've just returned from a Queen Mary 2 cruise to the Norwegian fjords, July 2024. Had a great time. I've booked Queen Victoria for 2025. Brilliant experience.

[@johncorbett4910]

This is so disheartening! My partner and I crossed in July of 2023 and had an exponentially better experience in almost every way. The part of your feedback that stands out to me the most is the discourtesy of your fellow passengers. In contrast, we thought the social atmosphere was the best part of our crossing! I think we had a more generationally diverse passenger mix on that trip, and we met some fascinating people. There was a sense that we were all partaking in an adventure together, and we found it very easy to make friends. So disappointing to know that this is not always the case on Queen Mary 2.

[@Cruisewith]

It's great to know that you had a fantastic crossing.

[@piratesswoop725]

I crossed in July 2023 as well, NYC to Southampton. Travelled with my mom. Everyone was so friendly and we met and chatted with so many very nice people, especially at dinner.

[@jamiepeterson1981]

The Disney Magic isnt spending half the year crossing the north atlantic in all manner of conditions like the QM2 (include recently a blizzard).

[@phillipmichaeldelgado6515]

Congratulations on the new house and I'll be looking forward to your next video.

[@Zutu41]

Brought back some lovely memories of our time on QM2. We went just before Covid, Transatalntic, there and back! On the return journey we ended up being extras in a Meryl Streep movie being filmed on the ship which was great fun! We even spent a year learning Ballroom dancing so we could participate.

[@marthat4258]

I am a big rum raisin ice cream fan! Love it!

[@Dogtown32nd]

My husband and I love watching your videos. Even the parts about how you get to the port, key card issues, ill-behaved passengers. All very interesting. Congrats on your new home guys... that's exciting. Keep up the good work.

[@Bondgirl73]

Thanks again guys for your informative, genuine, honest video. ⭐️🥂 This cruise looks like an aged care home at sea and over rated. (Mind you, I’m 50 and not far off being elderly, but it doesn’t have a “warm vibe” to me. Imagine the rich stuck up people, and shame on that man knocking in to you… he’s lucky I wasn’t there! Looking forward to seeing what you both get up to this week and hope that your neighbours are respectful with their noise… and their love making sessions.😆I’m lying here in hospital and you’ve both certainly cheered me up! And I’m with you, David… run and raisin all the way!! Safe travels guys and can’t wait for the next video. Hugs from Australia.😁🥂💕

[@loriparsons2320]

Hope you have a speedy recovery.

[@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge]

Oh, My Friends, I'm so sorry about the food and the service and the noise and the AC issues. I'm so glad you have a Disney cruise scheduled after this so you can recover. YIKES. I'm feeling sad and so hoping things improve as the trip continues!

[@danadarby8961]

I love the thumbnail photo 🖤 And yes there's some people who hate that you said fourth class on a luxury ship come on people not that serious.

[@danadarby8961]

And technically there are fourth classes. Lol

[@monikaliebold4225]

Thanks for the video. Brings back so great memories. Having done same transatlantic crossing in May 1987 with Cunard's QE2 (within a two parts special travel arrangement). After sailing out of Southampton we had rough sea on first two days. Then all went on smooth and comfortable, until Captain announced, that ship's route as a precaution has to be changed due iceberg warnings. Now, everybody was naturally thinking about Titanic. But everything worked out well and we reached New York just a few hours late. And there was still enough time for second part of travel arrangement (incl. hotel stay at legendary Waldorf Astoria hotel). With second part there were no issues at all and this part of travel will be legendary forever > we had a flight from New York back to London with legendary Concorde of Britsh Airways. In my whole life I will never forget this amazing travel experience with these both British legends - QE2 and Concorde.

[@amyrider5574]

Would you consider trying Ambassador? They are old ships but I found very good price. I class less than £100/night as a solo traveler good and the staff were extremely friendly and lots of old fashioned charm such as deck games, baked Alaska parade. Have cruised once so far but your videos and others helped me plan if this sort of holiday wod be for me so thanks.

[@brigitteravenscroft8982]

My first cruise was as a solo on Ambience and loved it. Such a friendly ship with a fabulous crew. Would definitely go Ambassador again.

[@Cruisewith]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@MS-xe8hg]

I cruised the QM2 in 2014 with 30+ family members NYC-Caribbean over Xmas. It’s definitely a unique experience - we loved the dress up nights, the afternoon tea with dancing and people watching, complimentary room service, loosened rules about bringing on alcohol, and the large group of us essentially took over the club (we tend to do that wherever we go!) If we had been in a smaller group or different time, I don’t think 20 something me would’ve enjoyed myself amongst the older clientele. No idea how we squeezed 4 people in an inside cabin back then! The food was much better then, I think seasoning and inventiveness in food is directly correlated with the age of the passengers…compare with Virgin and it becomes pretty clear.

[@MrSpaceWeaselTV]

This cruise looks like it would be miserable. Good for you two putting up with all of those old, rich, rude people so we don't have to. 😂

[@MrsK2021]

The empty deck is giving me Ghost Ship vibes. Like where they were dancing at the start of the film 🫣