Dining Disaster on Cunard's Brand New Ship Queen Anne!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

For more videos about Queen Anne and cruising with Cunard, watch our playlist here - kzbin.info/aero/PL_6zC3nwhe72k4zpgrQTA_vcesDLX7keM&si=1eu_pfzRGYF72B4t

[@CruiseBuoys]

Although we chatted about it onboard.... the experience with cold food, staff under pressure and telling us they were from p and o or on their first contract. We were at the pursers office nearly every day trying to get charges that were added by mistake by crew removed. Same story, Restaurant said they sent email, pursers didn't get it. Told it would be wiped every day, and they never were. Hopefully, things are improving. Good to know our reviews matched a lot 😅

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes similar experiences! Sure it time things will improve but certainly made us think about ever booking a maiden cruise again on any cruise line!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

You are like us , you tell it how it is. 😊

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Watch more of our Queen Anne Series and our other Cunard Videos here - kzbin.info/aero/PL_6zC3nwhe72k4zpgrQTA_vcesDLX7keM&si=NODZ5yDhOfMHy_Ka

[@marylawless1229]

100% agree with the rudeness of people coming in late to shows. This seems to happen on all lines, I don't understand why they just don't sit at the back of the theatre and BE QUIET!! All seats are first come and if you want to get an aisle seat get there early!!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Exactly that!

[@brigidconroy2111]

It used to be that on land you waited til intermission if you came late on Broadway Is the West End like that?? Probably because there is no charge people are less likely to value good manners TO BE KIND maybe bad dinner service caused some of the late comers and they would have been grumpy as well 😡

[@michaellove4131]

Totally agree regarding the moronic people who turn up late shuffling and talking usually in fairly loud voices. Cunard should control this better. Also, if they insist on the dress code in certain parts of the ship from 6 pm then this should be strictly enforced, as a lot of people have taken special outfits for these occasions. So you have gentlemen in their black tie suits you have ladies in what look to me like very expensive . Then somebody old enough to know better wearing inappropriate T-shirt and shorts that fit where they touch, comes muddling along.

[@jonathanknight1850]

​@michaellove4131 absolutely correct.

[@ianleaver4967]

We did the maiden voyage on the Queen Mary and vowed never again, there was just too many teething issues. Looking at your video it seems like things haven’t changed, which I understand as it’s all new to the crew and having worked on cruise ships many years ago they have my sympathy. Thanks for another great video 👍

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Your welcome. Understand that Maiden Voyages are certainly challenging. We felt so sorry for the staff, things just were not working and you could sense their frustrations!

[@laurencarrikerelonlaw7904]

I plan to go on it next year. If you take a maiden voyage you sign up for chaos and challenges. That’s to be expected so that’s on you for being disappointed. Like what do you expect? Never ever be the first; always let the kinks get worked out !

[@Kerry-q6b]

I am a new subscriber to your channel and do you know what, it is refreshing to see normal folk talk honestly about cruises, in a fun but enlightening way. Due to go on a Viking sea cruise this year and booked on Iona Fjords in 2026. Keep up the great work

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh thanks so much for finding us and your lovely comment! 😍

[@Kerry-q6b]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel my pleasure, look forward to watching more of your videos x

[@seemevideo]

Informative video. Thanks. We had a similar customer service experience on the Queen Mary 2 while you were on the Queen Anne. We were in basic Britannia class, but were not expecting bland customer service as you also described. We heard from guests that were on the around-the-world portion of this itinerary that many seasoned staff members left the ship to help with the launch of Queen Anne. I suppose that may explain it. We watched your videos in preparation for our QM2 cruise. They were very helpful. The ship is truly special, so we nevertheless enjoyed the cruise.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

QM2 is definitely unique, we would happily cruise on her again! Hopefully things will improve over the coming months!

[@donnaallen9863]

We were also on the queen Mary during this time, and I was told the same thing--that a lot of the seasoned staff had gone to the queen anne to help out the maiden voyage. The food on queen mary left a lot to be desired. I was not impressed at all. I have had better food from 3 other lines.

[@JennieHampton-r6m]

I’m 4’11 and agree with you on the theater seats. I tried to sit on the end and hang over in the aisle, but then I had to keep getting up to let late comers in. Last ditch was to sit on the front row, but you needed to arrive at least 45 mins early for that. Didn’t care for the seats in the main show room on QM2 either.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes frustrating, got really uncomfortable for the insight talks!

[@cchplays8182]

Queen Vic from Fwd to Aft....superb... from 'First Class to steerage' , makes the QM2 look like a cargo vessel ....

[@barnum4244]

Good video. I think you've saved us a few quid. We're removing Queen Anne from the list of possibilities for our next cruise. Maybe she needs more time to bed in. Or the bean counters have to cut down on the cut backs. If it's possible to say they've cut back on something that's brand new...shall we call them pre-emptive cutbacks?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks! We are pretty sure all the service issues will be sorted in time, so would keep it on the list for 2025!

[@ChrisFrameOfficial]

Thank you both so much for the lovely comments about my presentations! I really enjoyed meeting you both and hope next time it can be for longer!! 🥰

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

You are welcome, we throughly enjoyed them! Definitely a longer meet up next time!

[@ChrisFrameOfficial]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel 🙏

[@baritonebynight]

I used Cunard as transportation across the North Atlantic, always on QM2 as she is generally the only ocean liner in the fleet designed to do that route (ocean liner vs common cruise ship). I will be coming home from Europe on Queen Anne this time in January on her maiden transatlanic crossing which will take 9 days vs QM2's 7. I'm a little nervous as Queen Anne is not an ocean liner and the seas can be heavy in winter.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Queen Mary 2 is so steady as you say she is the only ocean liner built specifically for that. Hopefully you will have a smooth sailing! 🤞🤞

[@stevegatwick5539]

Thanks for this, we did the 10th - May 2 weeks to Maderia, things have settled down a bit, the first couple of days the food was only just warm enough to eat, (cold plates dont help) service lifts for luggage were not working, so the cases both embarking and disembarking had to be transported in the passenger lifts, which made life interesting for people who cannot use the stairs, and totally agree with you about the theatre late comers, I try to avoid being disturbed by them, but its difficult, we were half way through the new Brief Encounter when numerous people just wander in trying to find somewhere to sit in the dark, late commers should not be alllowd in as a curtesy to both the audience & the performers. (again like Paul, rant over) cheers

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Glad to hear things are settling. Oh bet that caused chaos with the cases. Happy to hear your rant as totally agree!

[@ventcurtisburkett532]

Just came off a Japan Cunard cruise on QE. Lots of band new staff on QE too, so at least some experienced staff was shifted from QE to QA, but apparently not enough. The food on QE was still very good, but the service in the dining room was noticeably worse than last year. It seemed like they were doing their best, but were short-handed. We didn't see anything as bad as your experience, but the service was not nearly as good as it was last year. Cunard has a problem, I hope they resolve

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that is a shame to hear! Yes hope they resolve it too!

[@georginamcgechie1925]

I was very lucky to be on theQA Maiden voyage , The staff , service ,entertainment and the dining experience was all first class, I am again lucky enough to be joining again for Christmas/New Year . Thank you Cunard for the excellent service. 🚢

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Glad you had a good time. Were you in Princess or Queens Grill?

[@georginamcgechie1925]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel No I as not in Princess Grill

[@chriswilliams6568]

Do you ever do a shore excursion, I don’t think I ever saw you do one, and you seem to just walk around. One does not see much of the area that way. A lovely itinerary you are on. Enjoy and relax too. Thx for video. Good wishes.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

We do do excursions for some places we have not been before. Our Alaska cruise we did excursions at every port.

[@MultiMattman68]

Maiden voyages are still shakedown cruises and best to wait at least a few months.We sailed QM2 to the Caribbean from New York in 2004,month of June,and there will some minor issues with the young waiters in the Brittania restaurant but overall the kinks were still being ironed out

[@kwong1308]

well informed. I was wondering if I should take the cruise next year.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Regardless of our issues there were a lot of positives about the ship. It is up to you.

[@naren2k6]

I traveled on Queen Elizabeth, the ship was amazing and most of the staff great, but not all of them, one thing lacking was the quality of food on the ship, it was mediocre, but had great Pizza daily. Some of the staff in the Lido buffet looked like they didnt want to be there, but had a great Alaskan cruise otherwise. I talked to some of the passengers and they said same thing food was not to par with such a great ship with 185 years of Cunard history. I want to sail on the Queen Mary 2 doing a Transatlantic crossing from Southamton to NYC, just eat Pizza I guess. LOL GREAT VIDEO

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that’s not good to hear, we’ve not had any bad food experiences on Cunard but every cruise is different I guess, We loved our QM2 transatlantic too!

[@trudilm3864]

I love Rum Baba and you never find it anywhere now. But where on earth does lime marmalade come in?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

You can get it is Tesco's!

[@jansupronowicz1300]

Do they provide laundry detergent in the launderette, or can it be purchased?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes they do we cover that in the next episode! 😀

[@MarkMariesTravels]

Oh, angry blogs are the best blogs. Missing drinks, reheated food, and people arriving late in shows? This is the content I've come to see.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol well that's what you will get here! 😂😂

[@SiobhanEyers-x2l]

​@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravelI've been on queen anne would be good to txt you both if ok xx

[@paulatrahern1336]

I agree so much about the theatre & etiquette around arriving etc. We were just on Iona and got so fed up with late arrivals and early leavers. Even if it’s not your cup of tea, shows are only 45 mins long, just sit & put up with it. It’s so rude, distracting and annoying when folk leave. Also, I sit on the end of the row because I have a bad leg & don’t feel comfortable being squished in. I also feel a claustrophobic mid-row. My choice.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Exactly it should be your choice to sit in the seat that best suits you!

[@nocturn791]

And while on the subject of etiquette you and yours may need a reminder to keep your phones off the dining room table. Get your photographs and videoing over quickly then find a convenient bag or pocket.

[@geraldinehughes9372]

Just been to Norway on the Queen Anne, absolutely agree with you 100 per cent, issues in the restaurants, hygiene issues (cross contamination using cloths). Missing courses, taking too long to arrive and cold. Pursers office sexist, wouldn't speak to me about an error on MY card, linked to MY account, had to speak to my husband! Also issues with people turning up late to shows then sitting directly in front of me blocking my view. Entertainment was great. Lots of things we're great, but why aren't Cunard changing things that are wrong when they're told about it?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Sorry to hear this, was hoping things would improve with feedback and time! 🙈

[@renatobernardin2183]

A very good video. Shocked viewing your group's dining experience at Sir Samuel's and hope there was/is some official explanation. Looking forward to next episode. The Caeser salad looked good though. Merlot is usually my go to grape variety and surprised that this popular wine was not available at the restaurant. Aaaah polenta ... being brought up on proper Northern Italian food (Mum and Dad are Italian) whenever my mum decided to make and serve a polenta meal there was always groans and arguments as none of us (4 siblings) liked the stuff! I think my mum served it deliberately to cause an uproar for her amusement... she knew we wouldn't eat the bland tasteless yellow blob but we would always find home made cake/bead pudding/apple pie in the fridge later. Polenta is in fact real Italian food but it's usually omitted from menus in so called Italian restaurants. I am on Queen Anne next year and would expect all problems to be resolved by then. I have and will never travel on a maiden voyage.. Seeing people coming into a theatre quite late for shows annoys me too. Again .. good video.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks Renato. Love your Polenta story! Yes theatre doors should be shut when the shows start!

[@lynnleipold2617]

I absolutely love polenta, especially with chicken cacciatore over it. But then I love grits too with a couple of eggs on top and butter.

[@gilbydog7350]

It's not just poor service, there are also food safety issues serving cold and essentially uncooked food.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes there is that!

[@CaptOReilly]

cold beef is fine its tartare, chicken pork and lamb need cooking well

[@JennieHampton-r6m]

We had a similar experience at Sir Samuel’s on our 24 May sailing. Food was a little better than what you experienced, but the service was sub-par. Around the ship, definitely not enough staff and a lot of new workers. Felt really bad for the experienced staff, they were trying their best. Absolutely 💯 on the show issues. People coming in and out throughout the shows, some shows were only 30-40 minutes and in a few venues, the audio was not working properly. Loved the ship, but not a great overall experience for the price.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Does seem like there are still service issues onboard. Totally agree so frustrating for the staff when they are working so hard. Late arrivals at the shows just shouldn't be allowed!

[@dmoniquerenee]

Oh' My word! I have travelled on Cunard from NYC (Manhattan) since 1989. Table side ceasar is common in the US. I enjoy it often. I cannot believe that was the best part of your meal. Re-cooking a steak from a customers table is unsanitary and could introduce contamination to other dinners. Not to mention, I did not see one elegantly plated meal during your voyage. I would've have my entire party rise and demand a refund and seating at another restaurant. Your liquid diet went well -- all of the drinks looked marvelous. Great scott, I have seen many shows ( theater, musicals ande operas) on Broadway, Leicester Squrare, France, Barcelona, Madrid and Sydney and I have no idea who Russell Watson is as an entertanier or witness him being memorable in any performance. He is famous merely session musician backing up many greats based on my research -- not one award winning song or album. He is benevolent in has actions and participation. I take 6 cruises per year; This review has really changed my perspective on the Cunard Cruise Line. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

This was our 8th cunard cruises, still love the product but will be sticking to the other Queens as our experiences on their have been very good. Also have learnt never to do a maiden cruise again on any line!

[@claireejbtravels]

Steve says are the bland staff really Carnival staff rather than P&O staff as such. The Queen Anne seems more of a mass market ship than the style of the older ships. Staff on Aurora have always been really chatty and on Britannia too. Seems to be Iona where there just isn’t enough staff for the size of the ship to cope with the number of passengers. Have they done the same with the Queen Anne? As for people arriving late for the show, it’s a flipping Liberty. I can only manage to stand up so many times to let people through so it seems as if I’m being difficult which I’m not really. I hate when that happens.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Those that we spoke to had come from P&O. Definitely a ship that will appeal to the mass markets. Not sure, certainly from the bar teams they were pretty slick by the middle of the week but not the happy service we had been used too. That is so frustrating with the Theatre and can totally understand for you that it is even worse!

[@NewMexico-FrankJen]

OMG! We agree about the shows... people coming in a half hour later! We experienced the same during the Broadway Musical Cats on the Oasis of the Seas a week and a half ago. The cast were literally running up the stairs for different parts of the show standing behind people looking for a damn seat! So frustrating...for the cast and audience! I (Jen) am easygoing....but I just about opened my can of whoop ass on these guests....up and down in and out! Ugh!The show doors need to be closed.... period.... for the time advertised.....ok... I'll watch the rest of your vlog😅...rant over for now 😂 (apologies for the naughty words.. lol)

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol whoop ass, totally agree the doors definitely need to be closed!

[@NewMexico-FrankJen]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel It's Friday and I've only had one cocktail so far.... hence the language 😂

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

@NewMexico-FrankJen lol love to hear it after a few more! 😂😂

[@NewMexico-FrankJen]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel 😂

[@brigidconroy2111]

AMEN 🙏

[@travelwithjonnyandwill]

A maiden voyage can’t be the excuse for the food you paid extra for and poor service. Wish we had of been there to hear the managers explanation for the missing triangle in Dans “new” steak. 😂

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol thought apparently it was a different steak! 🙈🤣 We expected teething problems but not with speciality which is supposed to be the best of the best!

[@markhoman-pg6vt]

maybe if cunard still employed british crew surposed to be a british company proud traditions and yet they outsause all the crew to the phillpines cos they are cheaper instead of proper british seaman who take pride in there work not just cooks u do it for money

[@Linda-w3o3s]

Re people arriving late for the show: Sometimes it is because the service is slow in the restaurant and you can’t get out on time.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Understand that can happen, but it is not fair on the performers and other passengers who are trying to watch a show.

[@minkeymoo188]

They could sit at the back as a courtesy

[@tombrown8281]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel the Best Thing is to close all Doors so no one can’t get in when the show starts

[@jeromek2125]

@@minkeymoo188Mmmm, the back is always full.

[@barbara88-]

Yes, I have heard about the lukewarm or cold food from a lot of people! That is an absolute NO! I know there are teething problems on maiden voyages, but cold food is not acceptable!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes such a shame!

[@gailparsons4334]

We have just returned from the Mediterranean cruise last week. Things are no better…..Sir Samuel’s restaurant actually put two fellow guests in the bathroom all night after eating the seafood platter!😮 After speaking to many many fellow guests the specialist restaurants were not worth the extra charges, with supplements also applied as well! The staff still looked broken, miserable and not happy! We complained to the Pursers office and it was well handled and actually did improve during the 16 Nights. We were overall very disappointed with the level of service. It was bland, not very poor but just ordinary!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

That's sad to read this, hoping time would sort things but sadly not! Thanks for letting us know!

[@MarieRiordan]

Carol you are so respectful to everyone

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thank you. I always try and treat people how I would like to be treated so easy to do. 😍

[@cherylh6920]

When restaurants open and you sail on maiden voyages, all are nightmares!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

We didn't have all these issues on our previous maiden voyage 😀

[@ASCOT1111]

Ooh Carol, that's how we used to present Ceasar salad at the table decades ago, did you opt out of the anchovies, can't stand them apart from them being a key ingredient in Worcestershire Sauce. However it used to be a raw egg yolk pre edwina curry nonsense days... raw egg yolk, dijon mustard, worcester sauce, emulsified with olive oiland a dash of white wine vinigar and then add the baby gem or cos lettuce, shaved leaves of parmesan not that sawdust stuff and garlic croutons and anchovy fillets.... followed by restaurant staff coming back to the kitchen swearing and asking for it to be taken off the menu. one wrong move and it all curdled. 🤣 But them was the 70's before steralised mayonnaise. Pauly, best batter for onion rings, temura batter. That steak is blue, chefs term for barely sealed both sides. maiden voyages usually have crew trained up especially the galley/ kitchen crew. Have also heard they are rotating the staff around the brand, which accounts for miserable staff and under and overcooked food we had to endure on P&O Azura. I had the same steak fiasco happen to me when sent back, waiter argued it was a fresh steak,plate came back with same half eaten veggies etc I had on there. refused it and opted for the rubber chicken breast and this was formal night too.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

No love anchovies! LOL bet that was stressful. Oh shame you had a similar experience on Azura! 🙈

[@darcygraham2430]

Try a Norwegian Ship...food is fantastic, service with smiles, great cabins and entertainment...highly recommend! I loved that you showed us video of actually eating the food. Anyway, great video and so disappointing when you pay extra for a specialty meal and it is bad, and then for no one to listen to you...unacceptable.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It was very frustrating! We do want to try NCL!

[@MeLittleBelter]

Also as we have never been on Cunard before but are booked on QA. Can men wear chinos in the evening with a collared shirt in the various bars and MDR when it is not night Gala night or must they wear suit trousers?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes check out our post here all about the dress code on Cunard - paulandcarolelovetotravel.com/cunard-dress-code-what-to-pack-for-a-cunard-cruise/

[@MeLittleBelter]

Thanks so much for your help. You’re videos are brilliant and so helpful. Much appreciated ❤

[@colingarrod7146]

i've only watched the first 5 mins of this video and love what i've seen alreadies .... real people...!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Cheers Colin , glad you are enjoying it 😊

[@Piglet234]

We just got off P&O Britannia and have to say most of the MDR staff were old school....with fab personalities! Your comment about Carnival rotating crew...on one of our shuttle buses I was sitting behind 2 of our Headliners girls, (main vocalists) and one just received an email confirming her position on QV in July. So very possible 🤔

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that's great to hear, we must try Brittania at some point! Oh interesting!

[@tombrown8281]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravelgoing on her on the 16th of August just looking forward to it

[@sallyannc3176]

The laundrette is bigger than the ones on the Queen Elizabeth - they only have 3 washers and dryers - but there is only ever one iron, no way there's room for 2 ironing boards in there!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks for the info!

[@cherylsemrau7100]

A proper Caesar salad is always made in front of you. In Japan there is no need for separate laundry soap in laundretes. It is already in the machine. I thought people that work on cruise ships were high;y trained so no mistakes.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Our first time it was prepared in front of us, it was fabulous! Oh didn't know about that in Japan!

[@brigidconroy2111]

First time we had a Caesar table side sister went nuts bought the fancy wooden salad set so that she could smear the anchovy paste along the inside of the bowl She was quite theatrical Dad was impatient but appreciated how his salad was loaded with garlic Thereafter, she was the salad chef

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol that's funny!

[@johnlt7026]

Looking at recent Cunard videos on any ship, it seems the past few months have been pretty bad in terms of service

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes sadly does seem that way. Hope it soon gets back to the Cunard we have experienced in the past!

[@johnlt7026]

@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel I hope so too. My trip with them is a little less than 4 months away

[@margaretfleming509]

My husband and myself were on the Queen Anne maiden voyage. My husband didn’t want to see Brief Encounter so I went alone. I am with you Paulie, Infact I left 10 minutes before it ended. The wonderful, original Brief Encounter, was not meant to be performed a comedy.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

That show is definitely not for everyone!

[@NeilLeSheepyEpstein]

Got back a week ago from Norway upon QA. Soooooo many issues, lifts always busy, Brittania restaurant awful, buffet restaurant ...omg.....sooooooooo bad !!! staff morale really low. Does not compare to the Queen Victoria we were on two years ago. WiFi kept failing, loss of TV signal.... Cunard shot themselves in the foot with this ..The whole style of this ship is too contemporary...too large and no atmosphere like one would expect on a Cunard liner. Felt very sorry for stressed staff...thing is,we have another cruise booked for August 2025 on Queen Anne again......seriously thinking about changing....

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Such a shame there are still so many issues still! Feel for the staff. We won't be rushing back, much prefer the older Queens experience!

[@NeilLeSheepyEpstein]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel I completely agree. I am hoping that by the time we go back in a year that would have received enough feedback to make some changes. Our issues were echoed by many many others too. The queue at the pursers was always long ! My wife is disabled so we relied heavily on the lifts and this was a major shortfall, in short , bigger ship equals more lifts...I could elaborate but i will leave it there. Thank you for your wonderful videos. we love them.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

@@NeilLeSheepyEpstein You would like to think by then some solutions will be implemented! Great to hear you really enjoy our videos too!

[@jackiesmithsmetaldetecting]

I live in Liverpool and it came to our City to be named ( i am sure you were there too)

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes it did. We didn't go to the naming ceremony.

[@colingarrod7146]

The rest of this video is honest and well put together THANK-YOU to Paul and Carole for uploading this .. a great help! Ta! (we, as if you haven't guessed .... are Cunarders....)

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks for watching!

[@traceybartlam7737]

Absolutely agree with people turning up late for shows. It’s so rude and I have no idea how they have the cheek to then try and walk across rows to a seat. I’m a believer that the doors should be closed and if you’re late you go elsewhere

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Exactly! Get in on time or stay away!

[@maureendawson7866]

We have cruise with Cunard a few times ,always loved it till the last one ,not good from start to finish, put us right off, so gone else where, now enjoying Princess and Royal Caribbean, thinking of giving MSC a go just not sure due to some comments. Great blog .

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that is a shame!

[@catherinehawkins1314]

Caught up my Saturday morning viewing 😂 really interesting again but that was dire in the speciality restaurants, maiden voyage or not your food should be cooked! Love how you deal with these issues and don't let it take over in enjoying other aspects of the cruise 😊

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks Catherine! There were frustrations but a lot of good things too!

[@RachelSmith-hs8fd]

The Balcony looks huge. Shame about the steak meal. The Ship itself does look beautiful. That selfie stick is something else.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Our cabin was great! Queen Anne is a stunning ship!

[@marykehoe8294]

Our local performance arena, Merrill Auditorium, in Portland, Maine has instituted late seating at intermission. Love it.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that is good!

[@JuanitasGrandaughter]

Loved visiting Portland! Your city is one of our favorites, after a recent Royal Canada-New England cruise.❤ We definitely plan on returning.😊

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Sounds like a good plan 👍

[@randijaffe-7665]

Theater- 100% agree!! They need to close their doors when the show begins!! It’s awful how people will leave early, as a group, which is intended- I understand if someone needs to run to the bathroom etc but nor a whole group

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It’s the turning up late that gets me

[@djt_Art_Travel]

So sorry that you had to put up with this in what is Cunard's new ship, the new direction for Cunard. From what I'm hearing, it seems to be typical of the new Cunard service levels, a drop. After over 30 Cunard cruises, we are so glad we discovered Viking Cruises in 2019. Like chalk and cheese. Cunard's standards certainly seem to have plummeted

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It is frustrating as we have always had such great service on Cunard! Oh wow 30, we haven't tried Viking yet but would love to!

[@lynnleipold2617]

Do try Viking!

[@chriswilliams6568]

Would love to try Viking, but too rich for me, even with the extras they are twice the price.

[@Robert.Cooper.ML2]

Just home from Norway, Britannia restaurant service and food was great. Sir Samuel’s was complete let down. Rushed service and poor food. Many others had problems when we were in too

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh sorry to hear that we were hoping in time things would of improved!

[@SallyWright-s9l]

Just got off Queen Anne this morning ,not impressed at all ,so far removed from traditional Cunard ,I’ll stick to the other three queens thanks 😬

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

We prefer the older Queens too!

[@KD-gu2mb]

Polenta porridge and cakes that’s all we had growing up. Now I order it to remind me where I came from. It takes me back and makes me think who else been down that road. Happy trails 😊

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh happy memories for you!

[@Keep-on-ok]

What class was your cabin? I know you get better service if you are in a more expensive cabin.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

We were Britannia class. Have cruised in the class 7 times before with Cunard and it has been great!

[@noramartin96]

This sounds like a Katherine Tate show!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

You couldn’t make it up

[@sbaumgartner9848]

Thanks for your comments.

[@paulkeay5032]

Your story of late arrivals reminded me of a family holiday in Bournemouth in 77. Mum and Dad took us to see Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo - we arrived late having missed the first half. After the film finished my father arranged for us to stay to the next show as we had missed the first half We stopped in the theatre for the second show and then left half way through :-)

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol no way! That's funny!

[@deidresmith2335]

We are getting on the QUEEN Anne next month....I'm starting to get concerned 😮 I LOVE Chris Frame...listen to his podcasts all the time...I also suffer from ducks disease 😂🦆...so it will be interesting to see how I go in the theatre seats as well...been hanging out for this video...thank you..

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Hopefully service will have improved by then, most things improve with time. The seats in the theatre are a pain. Yes love Chris Frame too. Go with an open mind, as there are lots of positives too. Queen Anne is a beautiful ship!

[@deidresmith2335]

We cannot wait...❤

[@kaywhy245]

It will be good if you have never been on the Victoria, Elizabeth or Mary.

[@markfalshaw-gv9im]

You should have asked him why the food is rubbish 😂😂😂😂😂

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

👍

[@ceceliamoreno1845]

Our first cunard will be on queen anne but not until the end of 2026 in princess grill room. Hope the service improves!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Sure by then all will be tip top!

[@davisflying6174]

Both my wife and I enjoy watching and learning about your travels. Thank you.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks for watching!

[@RachelSmith-hs8fd]

Olives and olive oil and balsamic vinegar with bread to dip. Heaven.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes so good!

[@brigidconroy2111]

Our fav Italian restaurant puts a quenelle of pesto in the olive oil totally killer

[@DHollandTravels]

Still absolutely floored you had a dining experience like that on a Cunard ship!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes after our 8 previous cruises with them we didn't expect it either! 🙈

[@Ira88881]

I’m glad you enjoyed the Caesar Salad…but that’s the ONLY real way to enjoy one! It was invented in Mexico, and has to be made fresh like this, with the best hearts of Romaine you can find. I’m an amateur cook enthusiast, and make it often for special meals. You have to try it at home!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh didn't know it originated there! Yes we should!

[@andrewdancer8520]

Sounds like being forced to cancel due to a family bereavement this cruise with 3 days to go saved much disappointment. We got full fare back from Insurance but only after jumping through half a dozen hoops at least to get paid. As for specialty dining and ding in general on Cunard not surprised. We had awful food on Victoria main dining last cruise so the maiden was to see if Anne was better and stay with Cunard and loyalty program. 10 cruises an 90 nights make you want to be loyal but SAGA and Viking kick Cunard’s ass. The river boats AMA and UniWorld are above all both sea and river we think. Just booked a Panorama suite on an Emerald river with the insurance money!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It was such a shame, we have had previous Cunard experiences that have been so much better. We had our first Amawaterways experience on a Mekong Cruise and loved it so can agree with that!

[@flyte34]

"Pet Hates"? By definition an individual thing . It isn't ideal at all that people enter a theatre mid show. Then again, not everyone is going to enjoy their dinner being 'in shot 'of a group at a table who are filming and providing a commentary course by course as it arrives.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It is rude walking in during a show not just for the audience but to the performer too. No different chatting with a camera in hand than there is chatting with your dining companions at the table 😀

[@alimitchell5346]

commenting at 13.36.. ive worked for cunard..im trained by cunard... im nearly retired now... cunard took the cheap labour option.. ship registration.. phillipino staff no merchant trained, maybe officers... when cunard was good, its was a long time ago. on behalf of cunard...i apologise...its not the cunard i remember. the mantra learn to realise what the customer needs before they realise it themselves..that was cunard.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Sad to see.....

[@alimitchell5346]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel it was like watching a death ..that's not how I was trained or ever thought..the customer is premo... Bloods they were called in the 70's Attention to detail was everything..I'm proud I was trained that way...I'm sad that Cunard have deviated... But that is the Cunard in me... They got it right then.. Now they can't get it right... Invest in staff... Preferably British merchant navy...

[@alimitchell5346]

I don't work for Cunard any more...not for a lot of years .. But it was great at the time...happy to help place to be...

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

@alimitchell5346 Glad you have some great memories!

[@traceybartlam7737]

I’ve been on several cruise lines with Philippino staff and they’re amazing. Hard workers me always trying to please and offer a great service.

[@sallyannc3176]

Just a wee heads-up - Galicia is pronounced 'Galithia', like Barcelona is 'Barthelona'.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Ok thank you!

[@KateS1172]

I think they have made a mistake with the pitch of the forward theatre seats!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes not good!

[@xkr510]

Travelled on QE2 for our 25th and travelled from Southampton to New York 2 months b4 9/11. What do I remember most. Being yelled at for sitting on two sun beds since we were not GRILL guests. Never travelled on them since - now we use Seabourn and are treated the way we enjoy. I’ll never travel Cunard again.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh that's not nice! Would love to try Seabourn one day!

[@dianacarragher5845]

Hello Paul & Carole a shame you had a bad experience in Sir Samuels the staff must have been really under pressure With tegards to late comers to the theatre Sydney Opera House they for a suitable break if its the ballet you have to wait until intermission.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes they were definitely under pressure! Sounds like the opera house has a good procedure in place!

[@loub5086]

Such a disappointment about your dining experience..Hope you got some resolution... I am so with you Paulie about late arrivers to the theatre... I find it so rude for those of us who make the effort to turn up on time and also for the performers... especially Russell Watson! How very dare they!! Love love love him. Jealous you saw him live... still on my wish list... 🙏

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It is so rude isn't it, drives us mad! LOL must say Russell was fabulous....sorry! 😂

[@siblacklockhughes612]

We had the same experience on Iona a couple of weeks ago in Norway. I’d go so far to say that a good few were just grumpy. 30 mins to get a drink in the crows nest! one lad behind the bar and 4 wandering around with iPads.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Frustrating!

[@davidjdavid1824]

We are both English and embarrassed by the Queens. We travelled on the Queen Mary some 10/12 years ago, and the cafeteria food was as you described. We decided to try the Queen Elizabeth as it fit our trip to the south of Japan. Our dining experience was as bad as yours-sending back both the chicken and meat-undercooked or overcooked-very disappointing. Only our table mates saved the experience with our North of England humour and added alcohol. We were thankful that our northern trip on the Royal Princess was a delight, especially as the staff had smiles at every corner-a marked difference from the Queen's surely miserable zombies they've trained them to be. A stiff upper lip did not hold any attraction when so many other lines provided a sincere welcome.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Shame to hear about your experience. This was our 8th Cunard Cruise and have always had good service and hot food. We are back with Princess next year on our group cruise and looking forward to that!

[@kathrynrees6781]

Loving these vlogs. Some of the issues around the food and service should never happen, even though it's a maiden voyage. I would hope that management look at these issues and listen to the feedback from the passengers

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks! There was a lot of issues which hopefully will be sorted in time!

[@samanthasegar]

That food in Tramonto looked totally tasty, truly tremendous, though they did seem to give you a terribly teeny table. Anyhoo, another great video, really enjoyjng seeing her as you discover all her quirks and lovely features.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Tramonto was fabulous!

[@randijaffe-7665]

Sounds like our problem at Royal Caribbeans Chops- such a waste of food

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Let’s hope Cunard can get on top of things quickly.

[@cbaxel5784]

Just so you know in the future, when theater seats are on a floor that tilts up as you go back from the stage, it's called raked seating. I'm with Carole. Seats that are too deep are hell on the back of the thighs and the knees.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh thanks didn't know that!

[@brigidconroy2111]

But seats that are shallow and low are as well At work we have short-ass chairs that kill my back and knees 😂 I guess the trick is to be born average whatever way you look at it it is a pain

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

I think a few people lied on their applications about how great they are at cooking under pressure and probably lied about a few other things too. I can't go on Maiden voyages with my food allergies, as I wouldn't dare. I'll have to keep abreast the Cunard's issues before I travel with them. I might have to fly in to my fave destination, which has it's own problems. I don't trust airlines either.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Travelling with allergies can be challenging. Sure in time the issues will sort we know how good Cunard can be!

[@brendasestito3186]

Cannot believe what a disaster you experienced for your dining!! Wow, shame on them...hiccups, ooopsies, and mishaps are common...but, an hour for a cocktail, forgetting a meal then...bringing cold food...totally unacceptable....just, WOW!!☹️🙅

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

It was frustrating!

[@jaynemorris7600]

Agree with the late comers that is rude but loved Paul singing oh carol ! Always makes me smile watching you two thankyou x

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh thanks Jayne! 😀

[@barbara88-]

The Tramonto sign looks like it has seen better days and the paint rubbed off already.

[@JudithWright5]

Hi I do appreciate your videos and follow along. However, it struck me this evening that I know there were problems on the maiden it is now a while since that voyage and think that it may not be a true reflection on current sailings. Perhaps your videos would have been a truer reflection if they had been released either during or much earlier after sailing.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Our videos series stated straight after we got off so we couldn't get them out any earlier than that lol! We have friends that have just got off and sadly there are still service issues, though sure in time these will improve. Seating issues in the theatre will never change unless they rebuild the theatre......

[@robertarohwer3861]

Interesting... because I've read the very same sorts of reports from what's happening on SilverSea, who's been bought by Royal Caribbean and they're changing completely.... and SS travelors are not happy!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh really, that is a shame!

[@isabellawalker2789]

Great vid, as always. So sad about the steak experience and completely get it. Also, the late theatre guests should be named, shamed and booed! Keep up the great work and thank you x

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes name, shame and boo lol! Thanks will do!

[@m.c.c.lavigne495]

Ben and david had the same experience, guess I am not going to cross the atlantic with cunard

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh really, that is a shame. We had a fabulous transatlantic last August on QM2!

[@atomicrancher3745]

Please don’t base an entire cruise line based on this one vlog with a bad meal. I’ve done transatlantic on QM2 three times and will be booking again. This is a shake-down voyage. Problems are only normal and will get sorted out.

[@kaywhy245]

Food hit and miss. Service miss and hit. Just stay with the wonderful Victoria, Elizabeth and Mary.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

We love the other Queens!

[@RachelSmith-hs8fd]

The size of those glasses. 👍👍 Gin fish bowls

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Lol they are big!

[@janettesinclair6279]

Several unnecessary disappointments there - the poor service in the dining room, and the rude people late for the theatre, expecting everyone to move for them. However I do hope things got better following your nice meal at the Tremento(?) diner. By the way - who was that great singer at the end - Paulie something? He should get a recording contract.....

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

A few frustrations but some good stuff too! Paulie likes to sing lol! 🤣

[@randijaffe-7665]

Great video- love your narrative voice !!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thanks , glad you enjoyed it😊

[@peteramos7037]

I think you have had it good, I was on that cruise and ate in mdr and service and food was beyond poor. And missed every show as never finished dinner until 11pm at the earliest

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Thats why we chose up to now not to eat in the MDR so we didn't miss out on the entertainment. If you were having such a bad experience in the MDR why did you keep going back?

[@peteramos7037]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel we had a good table of 6 and managed to have good conversation and it was like gallows humour. We did complain to pursers desk, head waiter, hotel manager, hoping it would change, it never. On the 1st formal night we only had 2 menus for 6 as the early sitting had taken them all. I honestly have to say worse cruise I have ever been on which is a shame as nothing wrong with the ship

[@janemayhew1442]

Hi both, Oh er do hope food has improved by now ,especially being served 🔥. Russel Watson has a great voice seen him four times and would go again 😊

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes we had friends who went to the MDR. how did they get it so wrong?

[@peteramos7037]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel it went wrong from the first step into it when we handed out table card to the man at the front and he asked if we had been before, which we hadn’t, and then just waved it’s at the back and gave card back and we had to find it ourselves with no assistance from the staff

[@JohnMaddox-ri4to]

Completed the Atlantic crossing two weeks ago on QM2 the worst cruise ever, food selection and quality was very poor. The service was the worst we have experienced waited an hour for breakfast "full English" aptly called "the get up and go" I tried but my wife talked me out of it. Many guests walked out from dining venues and from bars due to lack of service, guest were at the reception asking for the gratuities to be removed. Same issues with people walking in throughout the entire show. We usually have zero expectations when we cruise but I expected Cunard to be the gold standard for service no one was smiling crew just didn't have a clue. A few weeks earlier we sailed over to the UK on the Regal Princess these guys were on the ball always smiling friendly bar tenders remembered your name and your drink food selection and quality excellent no comparison totally fun vibe. Curious if you are in Queens Grill things are different? Ben and David were on our cruise and just released a video on KZbin you should check it out.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Such a shame to hear this as we had a fantastic time on our transatlantic on Queen Mary 2 last year! Never been able to justify the budget for Queens Grill but you would like to think so. Our group cruise is on Sky Princess next year so looking forward to that!

[@barbarazimmer3127]

so, would you travel with Cunard again?

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

This is our 8th Cunard cruise so we know how good they can be. Yes we already have another Cunard cruise booked on Queen Victoria!

[@barbara88-]

On a different note, Carole I am loving that floral top you had on while talking about your poor experience in Sir Samuels. That color really looks great on you!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Oh thanks so much!

[@stevenbennett3922]

We spoke on the maiden voyage at the 'Artisan Food Court' where there was nothing wrong with the quality of the food there but lacked imagination. Sir Samuels for us okay but overly priced for what you received.

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yes hi there! Agree the buffet food was good just not a lot of choice. Glad your experience at Sir Samuels was better!

[@edwardmarques176]

Before and after pics of the steak?! Brilliant!!

[@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel]

Yep there was the evidence!

[@brigidconroy2111]

@@PaulandCaroleLovetoTravel SAD that even then they were in denial mode Forget sad it was Monstrous!!