CUNARD Queen Mary 2 in 2024: STILL the WORLD'S most LUXURIOUS ship?

[@ritzytravelguide]

If you enjoyed this video, please do leave a comment in the box! By the way you can watch our latest video on Cunard here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKjMlKSifKukhdEsi=O9suMAuSuN05_KMM

[@burningblue1254]

I worked 2 contracts for Cunard on the QM2 on loan from Princess Cruises. I loved it! It was such a different cruise experience from a North American line. The formality, the tradition, the British heritage, the royalty. Very special and it was a priviledge to work on her. A true ocean liner, a cruise ship flat out in bursts could maybe hit 30 knots. The QM2 could sail all day at 30 and in sea trials broke 37.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks so much for your comments, great to hear your recollections. Yes, it must be very different working for Cunard compared to Princess. You can probably water ski at 37 knots... Imagine that behind the QM2!

[@burningblue1254]

@@ritzytravelguide Love your videos. As a Canadian, long live the King!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks very much!

[@mikebryan7077]

How do you get to work on the ship?

[@susanbolton-hk5yn]

all ships must be better than the princess cruise ships

[@postscript67]

I'm glad to hear people still like to dress up on the "informal" nights. Having booked my first post-pandemic cruise (on QM2 in July), I was disappointed to see that the Cunard dress code had been relaxed yet again, for I always enjoyed not just wearing a dinner suit on the formal nights but having the opportunity to give my jackets and ties an outing on the other nights.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Yes, even on informal nights people were very much dressing up. You will certainly not look out of place if you do so!

[@thomasvanantwerp728]

I wear jacket and tie every night in the Britannia Restaurant. Why not?

[@ritzytravelguide]

Indeed, a lot of people do.... I did!

[@egpx]

I’ve booked a crossing for next summer. I have absolutely no intention of wearing formal gear at any time on the ship. I only ever wear a tie at weddings and funerals. I guess I’ll be eating in the buffet on Gala Night.

[@ritzytravelguide]

@egpx the buffet serves great food!

[@NickiCarmody]

Was on the QM2 last week , my first ever cruise. I loved the formality, my sister dressed to the nines every night (there’s not much opportunity at home). Of course we didn’t have to dress up. I missed all of the afternoon tea opportunities as I was in the Atlantic card room playing bridge and to be honest I never entered it through the toilet area always the lobby on the other side. The serenity and service of this cruise was fabulous ( to be honest I don’t fancy getting off every day to sightsee) I would recommend it to anyone

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi there, many thanks for your comments. It's always great to hear people's lovely stories. The QM2 is indeed a very special experience! We have a new video on the Queen Elizabeth, coming out next week. Keep a look out for that... you'll be able to detect some differences between the 2 ships!

[@joanfreestone1707]

I love Cunard because of the timeless elegance and the chance to dress up because we never get to do that at home. I would like to cruise on the QM2 but fare prices in Oz are really expensive. We've done a few Australian cruises on Queen Elizabeth and loved them. Thanks for the excellent tour.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi Joan, yes I see that Elizabeth is often in Australia.... we'll be sailing on her this October, but that's in the Mediterranean, from Barcelona. Elizabeth is such a beautiful ship...bit smaller than QM2, but in a way I prefer that, as the layout is less chaotic!!

[@Jay-oj4hj]

The queen Mary 2 is not a cruise ship it’s an ocean liner

[@joanfreestone1707]

That's right. The only one in the world. I wonder if they'll ever build another one.@@Jay-oj4hj

[@MERCEDESLIMBURG]

This is actually one of the more usefull reviews, very nicely done, thank you!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you very much!

[@exmoorfarmer4880]

Super review Bill and lovely to see your wife!! We are on QM2 in April for the Norwegian Fiords and very much looking forward to it. We've been on Victoria and Anne, and now it's time for QM!!

[@ritzytravelguide]

The Fjords will look dazzling in April, and even more so on QM2

[@NIGHTANDDAY770]

Thank you for your wonderful review. Having been a previous passenger on the QM2 Transatlantic, I can attest to its superiority as the most refined means of travel. The service is impeccable, yet approachable and accommodating. A memorable experience.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks so much for your lovely comments on the video and review, that is much appreciated!

[@LockportDan]

Excellent video! Thank you. I did a lot of cruising about a dozen years ago. Nice to see a ship that isn't a floating Disneyland! Looks wonderful to me.

[@ritzytravelguide]

She is indeed a beautiful, classical looking ship!

[@benjaminsmith2287]

This is it. This is what I think of as "ship." What was very interesting is you showed the lifestyle onboard first and the music lounges. In fact, much of what you showed was lounges and restaurants. In most videos there is a focus on food first and staterooms. Lounges may or may not be shown. And do you still here the "standards" and jazz on the ship and do people ballroom dance? Apparently so. On so many ships people are singing "Sweet Caroline" with the obligatory "bah, bah, bah" and "so good, so good, so good" that it almost seems like an athem. Not sure if this is done on the QM2 or not but wouldn't miss it if it were. Food looked wonderful. Great to see a library and planetarium and for me not even the staterooms looked "dated." They just looked right for the style of the ship. The hidden areas were interesting but most interesting was how you go to them. Thank you.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, many thanks for your kind comments. I try, as much as possible, to show real life and, atmosphere aboard, so people can view it as it is.

[@JohnCarey-z8r]

Wonderful review, Thank you.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Very welcome!

[@ajs11201]

We're sailing with her again this summer. It's been about six years, and I'm really looking forward to being aboard again. I understand she got a bit of touch up a few months ago, so I'm hoping that will ensure that she's as glamorous as ever. And thanks for taking us through the various parts of the ship--it's a good primer for those who've never been, and a good reminder for those of us who have.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi there, yes lots of tweaks and face-lifts in the recent dry dock, with new carpets, and furniture in the bars and restaurants. Have a fantastic trip this summer.

[@jonathanknight1850]

Hi. Just found your channel and have subscribed. We did T/A Southampton to New York back in 2012 and loved it.Sailing into New York in the dawn is out of this world. We have booked on QM2 for the world cruise 2026 on Queens Grill and are so looking forward to it. We too love dressing properly and the elegance of dressing for dinner. I will be partaking of one or two cigars in the Churchill room! The glass lift is new to us so will enjoy. Please keep posting your great videos ! I don't know how it will feel being nearly four months at sea but we will find out! Thanks.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi there, lovely to hear from you. Wow, what a life experience, four months at sea in the Queen's Grill, on a World Tour! You'll create a lifetime of stories and memories. That's fabulous. Please do drop us a line from time to time, with updates, we'd love to hear how it's going for you. You can also keep in contact on our Instagram channel.

[@james-p]

I'm not really a "cruiser," but I've been considering a transatlantic crossing on this ship... this video was very helpful, thank you!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks for your comment, glad you found it helpful. If you're considering a northern Atlantic crossing (as opposed to a more southerly one which typically go via Portugal and the Azores)... then QM2 is by far the smoothest, and most enjoyable option

[@james-p]

@@ritzytravelguide Indeed, I am considering the northern Atlantic, perhaps even for the extra bit to Hamburg. It would be a great excuse to visit the city 🙂

[@tonytony3895]

Your presentation is highly interesting to watch. Thank you very much and take care. 😊

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks!

[@tupcsabang4658]

We love the QM2. Thank you.

[@lindaridd4393]

You are reminiscent of John Mills, such a marvellous and thorough tour, no raucous music, banging drums, you could teach the TV documentaries a thing or three, thank you, such a treat...take care

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's so kind of you... many thanks indeed for your comments.

[@lindaridd4393]

I have just come across your guides, they are truly wonderful, I am now taking a peek at the coronation video, I was on P and O Aurora at the same time, be interesting to see how your sailing compares to mine, I adore the Aurora, however its not as great as it once was, loads of cutting corners, I really loathe that Carnival has taken many lines over, favour the traditional, was better when Lord Stirling was at the helm, the Aurora is P and O best ship, I have now become a great admirer of your guides, thank you once again, the best in depth guide I have seen...take care ....Linda@@ritzytravelguide

[@ritzytravelguide]

@@lindaridd4393 Hi Linda, that is so kind of you, many thanks indeed. Aurora is one ship we have not been on, so interested to hear your thoughts. We have been on a couple of P&O Cruises this year, and can agree that they are very definitely cutting cost. I think across the cruise industry as a whole Covid had a huge impact. The era of cruising that we all remember has gone, and that we must all adjust to the way that the cruise lines now operate. On the big upside there are now more cruise companies opening up shop than ever before... which can only be good news! We now have an infinite variety of cruise choices.... and the fun of investigating which one is best for all of us 🙂

[@lindaridd4393]

I have watched the coronation sailing much better than on Aurora, no fireworks, had a coronation lunch with a massive cake, no ice sculptures, the coronation was shown live in the theatre, area in the atrium where there was the background to Westminster Abbey, thrones and crowns, where photos could be taken, all this on the Baltic, massive admirer now, looking forward to watching many more....Linda@@ritzytravelguide

[@ritzytravelguide]

Interesting comparison. Thanks a lot. We have more Cunard adventures coming up soon on our channel, as we'll be on the Queen Elizabeth this October, on a Mediterranean Cruise, so will be filming lots!

[@martinsymons5324]

Hi - The "paintbrush" in Churchill's cigar room is merely to gently brush the ash from the ash trays when they need emptying, before returning them to the tables for re-use, great video enjoyed the detail, I have subscribed, interested to see your future travels, tried many cruise lines over the years (including Cunard), however the best experience for me has to be Silversea.......

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks for your reply, and kind comments, much appreciated! Thanks for clarifying about the paintbrush, that makes sense. Silversea does often get very glowing feed back. We also like the offering from Oceana and Regent Seven Seas.

[@flywithafatguy5825]

Yup, came here to say that. 😊

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks

[@smithbrownjones]

That's not correct. The brush and glass tray, is for brushing the cigar, if it has "plume", prior to smoking. Plume is a light powdery substance that can occur on cigars, when they have reached their maturity, and are optimal for smoking. The glass tray is not an ashtray.

[@Shipspotting_Vietnam]

Wonderful review and Great Video! Thanks for posting!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you so much!

[@0530evan]

I AGREE....it is a once in a life-time experience

[@ritzytravelguide]

It is...and increasingly Cunard is offering some really good deals on price. It will give more people a chance to enjoy this fabulous ship

[@catrinlewis939]

Except that now I've got the dresses for the gala nights, I'm making it a twice-in-a-lifetime experience. At least. :-D

[@ritzytravelguide]

@@catrinlewis939 🤣 Quite right!!

[@michaelwhalen2469]

Queen Mary 2 is a elegant classy timeless beauty! Love the beautiful wood paneling, Wedgwood china and 1930’s Art Deco styling touches! Glad to see people dressing up for dinner! I personally do not like so many of the new modern cruise ships. Cold ,sterile unappealing styling. They look like shopping malls from the 1980’s and 1990’s ?!?! Tacky!! Cunard has the right look and ambiance. I’m also glad to see that you gave the ship such a positive review. I also agree that so many of the videos on KZbin are WAY TOO overly critical and picky. Ships are out at sea in incredibly harsh weather , so of course you are going to see a little bit of rust here and there !?!? Duh !🙄 but some people just feel they have to be overly critical to make their videos relevant 🤷😒 anyway thank you for the positive and wonderful video!!👍. MikeW

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks for your comments Michael. She is indeed a beauty! I always try to be as objective and fair as possible when doing reviews; and so this really is my honest opinion and conclusions. On other cruises I have been far more critical. But with the QM2 we had very little to be critical about. The experience was excellent. Cunard is now pricing its cruises very competitively, and doing it's best to remain solvent. Changes have to be made, to stay in business in today's world, but I think they have adapted well and kept the essence of what Cunard is supposed to be. We are booked on a variety of cruises this year, to be able to compare and contrast. Including Princess, MSC (for a total contrast!) HAL, and in autumn, a trip on the Queen Elizabeth.

[@Jay-vr9ir]

Luxury The Q M 2 ??? A Holiday Inn , has more luxury .

[@Shipspotting_Vietnam]

I have been watching this ship when she was built, amazingly, she looks still in good conditions!

[@ritzytravelguide]

@Shipspotting_Vietnam and the QM2 just had a makeover a few months ago, so looking absolutely tip top!

[@Shipspotting_Vietnam]

Oh, I see! I leave love the bow of this ship, watching her all the time on KZbin! I hope i can see her once day here in Vietnam!@@ritzytravelguide

[@gloriapalmer6629]

If you want a ship that is elegant and understated, not into thrill rides for adults or kiddies, allows people to dress as responsible adults.....QM2 is for you. 5000 passenger amusement park she is not. On crossings the Insight lectures are fascinating - Cunard hires people who are/were at the zeniths of their careers to speak to you. There are no hard sells on this ship either. - no one from the spa in your face trying to get you to book treatments, no one from the bars trying to sell you drink packages, there is no nagging like there is on the other lines. Formal nights are such a treat. People really do act differently when they are dressed to the nines.

[@ritzytravelguide]

I 💯 agree with you on these observations, formal nights are very charming! It's a welcome change not to have anyone trying to upsell you something! Our next cruise assignment is on MSC Virtuosa, in 2 weeks time, and it could well be the complete opposite!

[@tomwinter766]

Going on the 400th crossing from NY this August. Thrilled!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Did I read that right, 400?!

[@FSD23384]

This was a great video. We just booked a Norwegian Fjords cruise on the QM2. We were hesitant at first based on the reviews we read on "Cruise Critic." The ship looks beautiful. Thank you for posting.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi. The QM2 has an absolute timeless elegance, you will have an amazing voyage to remember!

[@FSD23384]

Thank You! It has been almost 45 years when this 20-year-old sailed transatlantic on the QE2. ====@@ritzytravelguide

[@enigmawyoming5201]

Thank you for this review. I learned this is DEFINITELY not an experience I would enjoy.

[@andiscott8470]

I am on a back to back crossing in September on QM2 and I can't wait. Been onboard several times and always relish in the dressing in the evening. As noted, not just on Formal nights. A truly relaxing and recharging time onboard.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Wow, 2 back to back crossings! Well done...not sure I have the stamina to do that! I wonder how many others are back to backing with you.

[@flydriveexplore]

Enjoyed this. A few of us are taking our first Cunard cruise on QM2 this September including my mother, who has never been on a cruise.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Fantastic! Wishing you a great cruise in September

[@JJLiu-xc3kg]

Such a wonderful, silly but entertaining, and useful review! I love the QM2 and would love to sail on her some day, and wouldn’t mind seeing you aboard! Thanks for a very enjoyable half hour.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks very much for your comments. One day you'll get to sail on the QM2 and you'll have an experience to treasure!

[@jonathanknight1850]

Hi Bill thanks for replying. I sure will send some updates. I also was thinking about your point about the weird arrangement of some of the ship layout. We went on QE2 in 05 and found that similar. I think it results from the design of a liner rather than a cruise ship. I also wanted to say, if we are crossing North Atlantic in early January, I don't want to be in anything else! Great talking to you, will keep posting , and thanks.

[@ARFilms2]

Love your video. We went on QM2 around 10 years ago and loved it. I thought it might have lost it's timeless uniqueness and character but it does not seem to have done. I know the layout can be a bit odd. We somehow missed the outside lift. Maybe we sould go back again. What saddens me, I get the feeling that this might well be the last ever true ocean liner and if so what a sad day for cruising.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks for your kind comments. Totally agree it would be such a shame if the QM2 is the last lady of an era of true ocean liners. Perhaps a final voyage aboard her, for you, is calling 🙂

[@JulieWest-b5s]

Myself and my daughter are on the 1st September mini cruise and really enjoyed the review as it gave us a good insight to the ship. Thanks x

[@ritzytravelguide]

Have a great time! Where is the mini cruise going to?

[@JulieWest-b5s]

@@ritzytravelguide we are traveling to le havre then back to Southampton It's my daughter's 40th birthday so we are hoping to have a fantastic time on the ship.

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's a lovely taster cruise aboard. You'll like it so much, you'll want to do it again

[@reachevasflowertot]

Churchill’s is used multiple times everyday. The brush is to clear the ash away. It’s very popular in the evening after Dinner. I’m back on board in 3 weeks and I shall frequent that room multiple times no doubt. Nice video btw. Glad you enjoyed! 💖

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks indeed! Have a great trip

[@nickthompson7743]

Jolly good review, thanks for that. Just booked on the Queen Elizabeth from Vancouver to LA later this year so looking forward to the Cunard experience. It’s been a bucket list thing for 50 odd years - I made an Airfix model of the QE2 as a child. The amazing thing about the Queen Mary is that the price is comparable to a premium economy BA flight from London to the west coast, so if this cruise goes well hopefully will do a transatlantic one later. Thanks for sharing your trip!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi Nick, many thanks for your message. You are absolutely right, that if you can find a deal it can be almost the same price to cruise, as to fly. Certainly in more style! Have a great trip with Elizabeth!

[@davidthomas2761]

We just came off a 10-day Alaska cruise, our third on the QE and first in Queens Grill. On this ship and the Queen Mary 2 we have previously been in Britannia, Princess Grill and the Britannia Club (on QM2 only). No matter what restaurant class we have been in we enjoyed it. I can't say which ship I prefer, the QM2 or QE, but for cruises I prefer the QE. The QM2 is best enjoyed on an Atlantic crossing. I hope you enjoy the Cunard experience.

[@travelwithdebandnick]

I would love the dressing up side of being on this ship ❤❤ I love getting all fancy ❤

[@ritzytravelguide]

If you like to dress up... it's 's exactly the right ship!!

[@ContraNovae]

Charming and informative review, thank you.

[@ritzytravelguide]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching

[@annking8633]

Very refined. Once in a lifetime experience. ❤

[@ritzytravelguide]

It really is a life experience 🙂

[@tiiatuuli339]

Fun to see this when a person I knew in the past was working in there and told me about her work. Now I know more about place she was working in the past. Looks amazing.

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's a lovely story! Now you can imagine. The ship really is beautiful

[@gerardwest5475]

I'm just off the boat at Southampton took my 16 year old daughter and for our first cruise I got to say we both loved it everyone was so nice and helpful....wished I seen your video before we went

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi Gerard, so glad you enjoyed it! You might be so smitten, you buy another cruise in quick succession!

[@Savi-e9l]

Everything I want to do on Cunard’s luxury QM2 3:20 Ballroom ( Now days they call it a Bankquite hall) 3:52 Afternoon tea 6:35 Chart Lounge (Lounges on passenger ships are called cafes) 11:09 Indoor pool 12:16 Golden Lion Cafe 13:00 Nightclub G32 13:32 Royal court thether 13:39 Four D’S ballroom 14:44 Kings court buffet 20:42 Carithia buffet and lounge My cruise is 8 days PS: I’m going to Southampton so I might meet you at the end of the cruise!

[@ritzytravelguide]

That sounds like most of it!!

[@hjnship]

I went transatlantic on QM2 in 2008. Followed the dress code and while it was a fun experience, if I ever go transatlantic again (which would be nice) I would not mind a more relaxed dress code. I like to be on the sea but feel no need to show off. And, I would like some free space left in my bags for whatever I want to buy in New York.

[@ritzytravelguide]

We were on the Queen Anne recently (Video in our Cunard Playlist) and it it definitely much less formal on the latest ship. Noticeably so. Not to say there is no longer a Gala Night, there is, but it's definitely less rigid and more semi casual.

[@dorseylandria6119]

I have to admit that the introduction almost turned me off because of all of the gray heads I was seeing. 😅 . I kept watching and thought hmmm...maybe this is the ship for me. I want to take a world cruise 🛳 BUT RELAX. I do not need an enormous amount of onboard things to do. I'm looking into it. Thanks for the video.

[@ritzytravelguide]

You're welcome! The Cunard ships are very good 'all rounders', in terms of their offering, activities and restaurants.If you're looking for some alternatives for the short list, you might also consider : Oceania, Radisson (though quite pricey) or the later Celebrity Edge Class ships

[@rod5262]

Hi Bill, I love your videos and unbiased commentary. My take on MSC is that if you were a young family with three kids this ship offers the mother no cooking and cleaning and therefor a real holiday for her. Plenty for the kids to do and it seems really good food. I am impressed realy as a lot more families can now afford all of that. They want a parking meter tied to those deck chairs so that everyone can get a fair go

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks indeed, yes a parking meter would be handy!!!

[@cafsixtieslover]

The QM2 is my favourite ship. I love dressing up every night and the afternoon tea dances are amazing. Food was great and the atmosphere was so elegant so completely different from the big cruise ships. We had a similar experience on the Queen Victoria and I am looking forward to trying the Queen Anne.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Queen Anne should be fascinating. Have you booked it?

[@sallyannc3176]

@@ritzytravelguide We've just booked it for the Norwegian Fjords next June! Had our first ever cruise to Alaska from Vancouver on the QE last month - wonderful experience.

[@johnburke5384]

An excellent insight to the QM2 very interesting and yes, now is the time I think, to book a cabin ! Thanks for the video ....

[@ritzytravelguide]

You're very welcome 🙂. Glad you enjoyed it. There's very few ships left in the world, that operate like those in Cunard. Any of them would put a smile on your face. You might even try the new Queen Anne, once she is launched in 2024

[@johnburke5384]

@@ritzytravelguide ...I wander around You Tube and just occasionally , I find something really worth watching and such has proved to be the case this evening...thank you !

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's very kind of you to say, and much appreciated!

[@Millennial_Manc]

I’m taking a voyage on the QM2 for the first time on Wednesday, which is my first outing on a liner or cruise ship. This is the best of several videos I’ve watched - much more relevant for me than seeing a £33,000 Balmoral Suite. First time anyone has mentioned the card room or the scenic view lift.

[@hgordonf]

Thank you sir for this excellent guide of the iconic Queen Many II Ocean Liner. This is a wonderful video presentation. I subscribed from Washington DC !

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@hanimoawad7988]

Great video. 👍. Amazing

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you so much

[@benjamin29419]

I'm boarding the QM2 in a few months as a graduation present to myself. Can't wait!

[@ritzytravelguide]

What a fantastic graduation present to yourself! Which itinerary are you going on?

[@benjamin29419]

@@ritzytravelguide I’ll be embarking on a Transatlantic crossing, starting with a visit to New York before boarding the ship back to Southampton. I’m especially excited for the Gala night!

[@ritzytravelguide]

@benjamin29419 I'm sure you are excited! There will be 2 gala nights, so a chance to dress up in your finest. There are 4 theme nights on the rota, and you'll get 2 of them. Perhaps the most popular are the Masquerade Ball night, and the 1920s Charleston night. If you're lucky you'll get one or both of those!

[@pamelakilgore7836]

Speechless! Much respect to all the workers🎉 Pamela in USA

[@ritzytravelguide]

The QM2 is gorgeous. Still one of our favourites

[@ajalvin2012]

Thanks for all the great info. I'm trying to talk my mother into crossing the Atlantic in style.🤞

[@ritzytravelguide]

Good luck! QM2 is the world's only surviving Ocean Liner (as opposed to cruise ship) so it would be the most stable, and least susceptible to rough weather conditions.

[@ajalvin2012]

@ritzytravelguide Just been over to the website and it looks like next yr is already sold out !

[@ritzytravelguide]

@@ajalvin2012 for all the transatlantic sailings ?

[@ritzytravelguide]

@spirals73 I'm sure she'd love it 😊

[@shingodzilla7855]

Hi! Having done four QM2 Transatlantics I appreciated this video a good deal. Decor wise don't expect Cunard to go away from the Art Deco look - it is part of their DNA. With regard to some of the nooks and crannies, the best way to navigate QM2 (based on experience) is to remember that many of the things you noted are right off of Staircase/Elevator Bank A. I had noted the scenic elevators quickly while doing my morning laps on the wraparound Promenade Deck and they give easy access to a lot of great locations. As to which decks have the most goodies it would be decks 3, 2 and 7 in order. Cunard has always been VERY profitable but just like everyone else in the industry they are having to reload the coffers after the shutdowns (really businesses forced to shut down for over a year like these were should have had some type of financial recompense). QM2 is currently scheduled to dry dock for a refit in late October.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, many thanks for your comments. We really like the art deco feel of Cunard, and hope it very much stays in their DNA. Hopefully Queen Anne will not stray too far away from this.

[@ajs11201]

I've booked a transatlantic voyage on her next summer. I'm glad to hear she may be getting a refit later this fall. I've heard she's getting a bit worn, and it's good to hear they are going to revitalize her a bit.

[@ritzytravelguide]

@@ajs11201 it will be interesting to see what they do, and if it goes beyond standard types of maintenance

[@ajs11201]

@@ritzytravelguide Yes, we'll find out soon enough if the maintenance will be limited to infrastructure or if visible touch-ups are planned.

[@shingodzilla7855]

@@ajs11201 Tips for Travelers addressed and refuted the "worn" statements. She is getting the refit she was scheduled to get in 2020 but the shutdowns interfered. Alas the total loss of income during the shutdowns caused a lot of lines to have to delay refits.

[@Karen-r7m]

Great tour…. Booked on QM2 Oct. 6 Canada-New England and continuing transatlantic to Hamburg, Germany.

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's a great itinerary!

[@sondrag2]

your music choice and stylish video made me feel delighted! your funny too

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you very much 🙂

[@merseywhogirl3430]

THANK YOU very much for your excellent review of QM2. I am booked on the ship for a Transatlantic crossing - Oct 2024 Southampton-NYC-Southampton - 15 days at sea and am looking forward to it!! I am also booked for Queen Victoria for 4 nights in Jan 24 Southampton-Hamburg. Both are w/Balcony staterooms!!! xx

[@ritzytravelguide]

Wow, very exciting for you! That's 2 amazing adventures in 2024. So much to look forward to, and plan. That's living life to the full.... well done you!! Let us know how they go!

[@merseywhogirl3430]

@@ritzytravelguide Ah thanks!!! Very exciting!!!I will be doing vlogs forth both voyages xx

[@ritzytravelguide]

Remember to give us the links, we'd love to see them!

[@merseywhogirl3430]

@@ritzytravelguide Absolutely!!! xx

[@deniseporter7708]

I love your presentation style, am definitely subscribing

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's very kind of you to say, thank you so much 🙂

[@ajalvin2012]

Just subscribed. Thanks alot for all the great info 👍

[@ritzytravelguide]

Great to have you with us!

[@shahrokhnaqvi9613]

“No, no, that’s not edible” 23:14 🤣

[@ritzytravelguide]

Shouldn't have eaten that lemon rind 😂

[@VictoriasFolly]

My husband and I quite enjoy your cruise videos and have viewed many interesting vids. As a request, would you please do reviews on accessibility. We realise you are young, fit and agile and such issues related to mobility is not front of mind. But for those of us, young and older, who are dependent upon easy access, detailed info could be a game changer. Thank you!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi there, that's a very good idea. Let me see what I can do for future videos 🙂

[@rodpettet2819]

Oh dear such a short voyage and so many food choices. I spent 7 weeks or so on P&Os Aurora and never tired of their offerings. Not quite QM2 but still excellent.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, We have yet to try out the Aurora, (or Arcadia)... would you recommend it? Sounds positive from your comments above

[@salvatoredinunzio4137]

We have always loved the Q Mary II And like always enjoyed the classic style and the English costumes 🙏

[@ritzytravelguide]

Yes indeed

[@andylong1045]

I think this review is very accurate. We’re diamond passengers and have travelled extensively on all three ships in different categories. The layout of the Mary is poor whereas the QV and QE the grills quests have a separate sun deck, lounge and sun terrace for eating at the top of the ship, all together. On the Mary the dance floor is at the rear the grill’s restaurant is or was deck 7 more mid ship and the sunbathing deck separate again.

[@Rohnn2233]

Many good info thanks.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@gregt8638]

Thank you so much for posting this most enjoyable video! I have not sailed the QM2 yet... I honestly feared that she was just a slightly glorified average cruise ship ( you know, tacky Las Vegas like) I am glad to see the traditional elegance and style is very much alive and celebrated, including the higher class clientel. Thank you. Greg T, California

[@ritzytravelguide]

Many thanks for your comments, glad you enjoyed the video! Together with a handful of the other lines, Cunard has probably one of the most traditional cruising styles!

[@howardhdavidson]

Your a few years late for the QE2

[@gregt8638]

@@howardhdavidson you are correct. I corrected my typo:)

[@FraserAtSea]

Excited to cruise and film this one in December - I've heard SUCH positive things about this ship, and very keen to see if she lives up to my expectations!

[@ritzytravelguide]

I'm sure you'll have a great time Fraser.... after all your MSC and Costa 'fun and games' the past few months ... it will be a welcome change to art deco style of cruising from yesteryear!! We, thoroughly enjoyed QM2.... so much so, we are booked on Queen Elizabeth this October

[@paulr75]

hello are you doing the 15th december crosing southanpton to new york? we just booked recently so maybe see you on board!

[@FahlstromJohn]

subscribed...wish you the best for your channel...hope to see you on a cruise sometime...we are on Cunard Queen Elizabeth October 23 out of Barcelona....cheers

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi there, many thanks for your kind words. You are on the QE the week exactly after us! We're almost tempted to extend by 7 days, as the itinerary is great... but we have to be in Asia, end of October. May see you as we come off! Have a great cruise!

[@JonTanOsb]

I would much rather travel on an elegant cruise ship than one full of glitz and glamour and screaming children. I am planning, sometime in the next 2-5 years, to travel from Montreal to England aboard one of the Queens. Thank you so much for showing the Britannia class travelling, whilst so many KZbinrs only show first class accommodation. Jon in rural BC, Canada

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi Jon, lovely to hear from you. I'm sure your dream will come true. In 5 years you'll make that trip over from Montreal! By the way, in case you didn't spot it on our channel playlist, we also have videos covering our recent cruise on the Queen Elizabeth. You can watch that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYG8pYqNmJ1sfpY

[@JonTanOsb]

@@ritzytravelguide Thanks. I'll give it a go. BTW, I subscribed. :) Jon

[@ritzytravelguide]

@JonTanOsb Thanks for subscribing!

[@lauram8554]

This looks sweet I'm 35 and would enjoy this old fashioned and slower paced journey

[@ritzytravelguide]

I think many people would!... and your age range really doesn't detract from the enjoyment at all. We spoke to several younger people, in their 20s and 30s, who were having an amazing time

[@rodneymartin-ps2yv]

A fair review, in particular your comments on the inability to get from one location to another without a detour. No discussion of the staff I notice; maybe there has been some improvement in attitude over the last 3 or 4 years. Pleased to hear Captain Hashmi is still going strong; he took me to Cape town some years back on Queen Elizabeth.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thanks for your comments. Yes, Captain Hashmi is still very much there, and always very personable.

[@JD_79]

When I saw you had to walk through the restrooms to get to the card room I thought "that's actually not that weird for an older vessel" then I saw QM2 was launched in 2003'ish. 🤔 That buffet looked fantastic though and so calm.

[@ritzytravelguide]

It's a very relaxed and calm buffet, compared to a lot of others!

[@ritzytravelguide]

It's a very relaxed and calm buffet, compared to a lot of others!

[@dl11950]

The normal entrance to the room is on the port side - restrooms are on the starboard side.

[@PtolemyCeasar]

Fleet week in the Port of Sydney. All the ranks up and down the line.

[@thobecthistar3222]

Best of the best presentation among the cruise ships' ones

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you!

[@stuartlee6622]

I hope you cover the Grilles!

[@ritzytravelguide]

We have in 2 of the other videos. Please check out our playlist 😊

[@donnamanitu8673]

Thank you for the detailed video as we just booked for the first time ever on Queen Mary 2. When you are outside the smoking lounge in the hallway is there an odor of smoke ? I would like to know because our room is nearby and I have Asthma.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, are you referring to the Churchill Lounge? If so, then no. You can't smell smoking outside. Only once you go in!

[@donnamanitu8673]

@@ritzytravelguide Thank you, yes I was asking if the smell lingers outside of the Churchill Lounge into the hallway. Now I feel better that I can enjoy our room.

[@karlp8484]

The paint brush is there for when you clip the rear of the cigar to get the shavings off.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you!

[@antoniabaker7770]

Love your vids. Really informative.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Thank you!

[@jeffross5424]

main entry to the card room is on the other side

[@jorgschwantje1239]

Loved this video again. I plan to sail on Queen Victoria in September and comparing your videos, she (or Elizabeth) seems to be even more beautiful then the QM2. Maybe because I love the Titanic-styled Victorian/Edwardian decor of Victoria/Elizabeth more?! But maybe it's the videos? What would you say? 🙋‍♂️

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, you've asked a really tough question there, it's like picking between your two favourite children! The QE and QV are almost identical, so let's combine those. Our thoughts : My wife: likes all of them, but feels the smaller size of QE makes it easier to get around and more personal. Myself: again I like all, but if pushed I'd choose the QM. For a variety of reasons : 1. It just feels a tad more majestic. The bigger size gives a greater feeling of space 2. The Queens Room does not feel like a corridor compared to QE/QV, where it's more of a through passage. 3. I prefer the nightclub on the QM2. 4. The buffet on QM2 has been modernised. 5. The Carinthia Lounge is better on the QM2. 6. QM2 is a unique design. But the Grills are better on the QE/QV. They have their own deck, and better view, with nice courtyard You could of course choose the new Queen Anne! Hope this helps!

[@jorgschwantje1239]

@@ritzytravelguide Queen Anne I am totally out! 😅 They can keep this contemporary nightmare for someone else... 🤭 THANK YOU for this again quick answer with so many informations. You are great. Very kind from you! A happy new year to you and your family! 🤗🙋‍♂️

[@georgeboothroyd7074]

Thank you for helping me make a decision and that’s not to travel on the QM2.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Righty ho!

[@ajpdaniels]

On the formal nights, are normal lounge suits with a tie acceptable?We're going Princess Grill and to be honest I hate dressing up - but I don't want to get told off!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, yes normal lounge suits are acceptable. I would say approximately half will dress in tuxedos and dinner jackets, on formal night, with others using lounge suits. Dress code is slowly relaxing on Cunard. Some onboard will not dress up at all, and restrict themselves to the buffet!

[@ajpdaniels]

@@ritzytravelguide thank you

[@rexbourne7635]

You did not mention the most amazing lectures available every day!!!!!!!!!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi Rex, you are absolutely correct, I should have done! They are excellent. An ommission on my part.

[@sallyannc3176]

I'm surprised you didn't try a Balcony Club cabin - on the Queen Elizabeth recently we enjoyed the Brittania Club dining room, always the same seats and a much better menu than you show here (4 choices for each course except the soup and salad when there were 2 choices). Bigger verandahs too plus a greater on board spending allowance - the 600 dollars we had covered our gratuities, wifi and coffees and wine each day so we didn't spend any extra!

[@ritzytravelguide]

That's a good tip!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Note: We will be aboard the Cunard Queen Elizabeth in October 2023. Remember to subscribe to our channel to see those videos when they come out..... in the meantime, after you watch this video....we have another about the QM2 ... it is on the very special Coronation Cruise. You can watch that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWGun2ONjrx1jpY

[@craigrb67]

Paint brush is used by the staff to clean out the ashtrays. Been in that lounge many times

[@ritzytravelguide]

I wonder they don't take the brushes away afterwards?!

[@daveview1743]

What they don't tell you is that the top suite have a smoking area below the massive balcony

[@MadeNCda]

This looks divine 😍 I like the old world charm and understated elegance. The piano lounge Corinthian room appeals to me as well. To be honest, I am thinking of booking an inside cabin for a Dec transatlantic crossing as the price is fantastic $1900 cdn (pls taxes, surcharges and gratuities). 🤗

[@ritzytravelguide]

The Old world charm is the real magic of Cunard! Very few cruise lines these days have this feel. We've travelled Inside with Cunard on a couple of occasions, and been very happy!

[@MadeNCda]

@ritzytravelguide Friends of mine - Aussies working in NY back in 2008 - when their contract was finished they chose to do NY to Sydney in a suite. They are the ones I credit with planting the seed in my head to one day try Cunard 🤗 It reminds me of the glamour of Now Vayager w Bette Davis and Claude Rains 🛳🛟

[@MultiMattman68]

We sailed QM2 back in 2004 when she was brand new, my first on a true OCEAN LINER. It was a delightful experience. It was an 8 day cruise to the Caribbean from New York City. I had no complaints at all,and I know now the ship has been remastered/refurbished as she is called

[@ritzytravelguide]

That would have been fabulous to travel with her when new. I'm sure the atmosphere would have been fantastic. QM2 is going into dry dock later this year. Cunard is being a little secretive on exactly what is being upgraded /changed. It will be fascinating to see what is done to the ship, and how far reaching a makeover is attempted. Whilst the main areas are still looking fantastic, the cabins could do with a bit of modernising, and adding infrastructure, such as Starlink around the ship, would keep her in touch with competitors

[@nobilesnovushomo58]

You get a seven nights stay aboard the last ocean liner crossing the Atlantic for 1300 less than the price of the cheapest plane ticket.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Very true!

[@graemeforssberg3986]

I would dearly love to do a QM2 cruise but I’m not sure about the formality thing. I like the neat casual attire of most cruise ships.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, Cunard is quite formal. Their dress code is reasonably strict if you go to the smart sections of the ship!

[@sallyannc3176]

The formality only really kicks in after 6pm - and even then you don't have to bother at all with it if you're not planning to go into the 'dressy' areas e.g. Brittania Restaurant, Commodore Lounge etc. We're just off the QE - our first ever cruise - and I was a bit worried about it as we chose Club Balcony, but even in our restaurant smart casual was ok in the evenings - my husband was delighted not to have to wear a tie!

[@ritzytravelguide]

Glad you had a great time 🙂

[@Angie-GoneSoon]

I don't drink alcohol because of certain medications that i take.. Instead of champagne or wine, would i be out of luck at dinner, if i asked for sparkling (cold) apple cider?

[@ritzytravelguide]

Hi, they serve a full range of drinks at dinner. So as long as the bar stocks it, they are permitted to serve it to you!

[@richardsullivan460]

Booked next may.😊

[@ritzytravelguide]

Wishing you a fabulous time!

[@davidc5191]

So if, say, you're booked for the Princess Grill, can you still eat in the Britannia dining room, perhaps to hook up with friends?

[@ritzytravelguide]

Yes, but few do!

[@bernardhatton5594]

You don’t mention that you constantly pay for everything normally included on other ships I.e. drinks, chocolate treats ... and all extras are very pricey

[@BlaineShire]

OK I have the dates for Royal Ascot 2024 they are June 27th-21st, 2025. So now I can finish my plans. So are y'all comin?

[@ritzytravelguide]

🙂 Got your invite to the Royal Enclosure, Blaine?

[@BlaineShire]

@@ritzytravelguide Bill, that we come in January..

[@incredibleshrinkingfungus1731]

Afternoon tea was one of the traditions that would make me want to sail this ship. After seeing the production and transformation to some sort of zoo carnival, I'll look elsewhere.

[@ritzytravelguide]

If you're looking for an alternative cruise line that gives a good afternoon tea, you could consider: Oceana, Holland America or Silversea. Theirs are normally good. Virgin also does a good one, though that attracts an additional fee

[@RE-nv4we]

Couldn't agree more, the circus of the waiters walking in to Strauss is just too much for anyone with half a brain

[@Mirror1973]

If a lot of people say is too posh then that means it is great because you will not be sailing alongside the “carnival type kind of backwoods gents” so yeah 👍

[@johnmiller4973]

My parents grandparents brothers and I sailed on the maiden voyage to get back to North America back in January 2004

[@ritzytravelguide]

Fantastic experience for them!

[@johnmiller4973]

@@ritzytravelguide for me as well. Our family travel diaries sadly end with the one I kept on this amazing transatlantic maiden voyage after more then 100 years four generations and about 130,000 pages of travel memories.... As a little aside my grandparents also sailed on the maiden voyage of the FRANCE in February 1962... So they can say that they were on the last two mid winter maidens of transatlantic linets

[@ritzytravelguide]

Sailing on the France would have been an exceptional experience. One of the most serene and beautiful ships to ever grace the seas

[@johnmiller4973]

@@ritzytravelguide the one thing that both my grandparents couldn't stop talking about her sea keeping qualities during the two day Force 11 storm they slammed into upon entering the Atlantic

[@karlp8484]

Most of the time I actually prefer buffets. I can eat what I want and at the quantity that I want. And my weird food combinations that I like , which won't be possible a la carte won't raise an eyebrow because most people have weird combinations on a plate in a buffet.

[@pattioneal8953]

Can the QMII accommodate special diets?

[@ritzytravelguide]

Yes, most of them

[@co7580]

Another snug away place: the very small gallery from where you can have a peek into the bridge. Not always open but an interesting place. Have not been on any other ship that allows passengers such a glimpse.

[@ritzytravelguide]

Absolutely right!

[@Wilson-ly5rv]

Is there steerage on the QM2 like the Titanic? I think that would be much more of a good time than being around mostly old, wannabe rich people the whole time. It's probably the most crowded between the hours of 6:00am and 8:00pm. Bedtime at 8:30-9:00pm.