Queen Mary 2 vs. Flying? Similar Price. No Contest.

[@Rob02138]

This never ever occurred to me, you’ve opened my eyes to a possible new experience. Thank you very much.

[@terrylong8894]

I’ve crossed on the QE2 on the Queen Mary 2. It’s much, MUCH more civilized than flying.

[@kcjd8659]

What?? Have you never seen the The Parent Trap remake? It was the QE2 then, but same thing.

[@Rob02138]

@@kcjd8659 Nope, neither the original nor the remake. I average ~1 movie/year.

[@kcjd8659]

@@Rob02138 just realized that movie is from 26 years ago, so we’ll let it slide.

[@ldavies3280]

Me too. Never fancied cruises after hearing about friends’ experiences on them, but this sounds great.

[@paulaspinall919]

I didn’t realise this service still existed and am amazed at how reasonable the cost is. Thoroughly impressed. Thank you.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Happy to help!

[@mcclaynjazmyn9845]

ME Too, being a landlocked North Dakotan, just didn't know, but How Awesome, I wish I could go !

[@merk9569]

@@ChrisRandTravels. To go, I would want someone to share a room with me, Do they provide singles with possible roommates? Even if I have to pay for the double room, it’s still affordable! I think it would be more enjoyable to not be alone all the time. I get enough of that at home! Thanks for an awesome video!

[@Rose-qr4xn]

I really needed to hear this!!! As a widow, I prefer to be kind of a loner. Nothing too fancy, just elegant & civilized. I have been wanting to visit Italy but dreaded the 9 hr plane trip. My perfect vacation would be to sail to Venice, spend 4 or 5 days exploring, and then sail back home to the US. My father immigrated from Italy to the US in the early 1900’s and was processed through Ellis Island. I could retrace my family’s steps as they made their way to America. 🤔 I see a an adventure in my future!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Oh I'm sure you'll love it. It's very easy to just do your own thing.

[@Jay-vr9ir]

Managia !

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

@@ChrisRandTravels Even if she lives in NY, the QM2 does not go to Venice, but maybe she finds another one that does. But to get the benefits you got, she needs double occupancy, so take one of her kids or whoever with her.

[@roxannedyerart]

Sounds amazing, Rose. 🥰. Hope you get a chance to do this! Not a fan of planes either, especially since the past few years.

[@DesandSam]

You can sail New York to Southampton, then transfer to one of the other ships to sail to Italy. We sailed recently from Southampton (with a different cruise line) and saw Queen Ann sail out. On our return, QM2 was docked. I have sailed on QM2 a number of times. She is my favourite ship.

[@MacAdvisor]

I took the QM2 over with my boyfriend and my Dad with his new wife (it was their honeymoon). It remains the single best trip I've ever taken and would absolutely do so again. The ship is so smooth, when we departed the dock in the US, standing on the balcony, it felt like the dock was moving away from us and we were standing perfectly still. It was truly remarkable. Sitting on the balcony at night with 100,000 stars visible and the full moon make a "moon river" of light atop the still-as-glass ocean is seared into my memory. Never have a felt so relaxed and at peace. Cunard absorbed the White Star line in 1947, so it pays homage to that liner's ships as well. The ship made an announcement as we passed over the Titanic site and had a moment of silence in memory of so many lost. The lectures were the best part, we had one on the Queens of the Ocean, that is the great ocean liners of the day, that was absolutely fascinating. There was also one on Fabergé, complete with actual piece by the company, not to be forgotten. Th voyage was over Memorial Day, so the ship had a costume party and we all attended as a MASH unit. When the staff learned the crossing was my parents' honeymoon, the DJ brought them out for the first dance, their first as a married couple. Let's not leave out the ship has the largest library afloat and the only functioning planetarium at sea. I also loved my afternoon games of bridge in the card room at the stern of the ship. Made me feel like Phileas Fogg. As the old bird from Western Airlines used to say, the Queen Mary is, "the only way to fly."

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Fantastic!

[@merk9569]

I became paranoid of flying and sailing when an airliner I was on with my daughter began falling out of the sky, like a leaf fluttering downward. We were on our way to the Bahamas for a vacation that included sailing; I was an avid sailor. We were over the ocean and the pilot got control just above the waves. I literally could see the foam. I did fly twice afterwards but developed true paranoia for both flying and sailing. I never ever thought that I would be tempted to sail anywhere until I watched this film three months ago. I dearly want to go back to the UK and the fact that my dogs can go makes it enticing! Did you see any icebergs? When I flew between the US and UK, the icebergs were prevalent. I think having seen them fueled my fear. Did you take a furbaby with you? I was wondering how that went. Other than their “spa days” occasionally, my dogs are my constant companions. Even being away from them on the ship may be hard but there is so much to amuse and enjoy that I think it may be possible! I really appreciate your review of your experience, especially learning the crew treated your parents so kindly. When compared to the cost of train travel, it is very reasonable. If I had someone to go with me, I think I would! 😊

[@stuarthutt3740]

Very cool. My dad came back from WW2 on the first Queen Mary.

[@EugeneMurray-z1b]

My Mum emigrated to America... Not RMS Queen Mary But SS Washington I was disappointed until I found out that it was SSW that took Winston Churchill to visit FDR during WWII

[@heythave]

It is now docked in Long Beach, California, and it is being used as a hotel and event space.

[@cazz124]

@@heythave Stayed there a couple of weeks ago, very interesting

[@abstract_jeff]

I can't believe I never even considered this as an option. It's been under my nose the whole time. Thank you for this!

[@enidaaron537]

I've done two crossings on this ship, one in a sheltered balcony cabin where I could experience the sea spray first hand. My favorite experience among many is high tea. Leaving New York at night is spectacular. You can feel like a Queen or a King without spending a fortune!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

The afternoon tea is amazing, isn't it?

[@larrytoy4235]

We have taken six transatlantic trips on the QM2. We used to fly business class from the US to London and back, and the QM2 in a balcony cabin is 30% cheaper than a business class flight. We started this to avoid jet lag, which is significant especially going East. It is much more civilized than flying, even in business class. You do need the time, and as retirees, we do have the time. There are a very large number of activities, including excellent lectures, as well as shows and a large variety of diversions. We haven't tried the cheapest cabins, which don't have a view of the ocean or the outside, but are much cheaper and reasonably spacious.

[@merseywhogirl3430]

I'm doing a double crossing transtalantic this October. I am so excited!!!

[@margaretsy1855]

​@@merseywhogirl3430you are going to love it.

[@tomsimpson5317]

Wish I had that life

[@normanboyes4983]

@@tomsimpson5317Just work smarter.

[@dwaynehall6356]

Does it have a smoking area?

[@easternyellowjacket276]

What a great argument you've made for this type of travel. As you mentioned the only limiting factor for most people is time. This would certainly make a great summertime vacation with those that have that kind of time to dedicate to such a remarkable journey. Two weeks there and back, two weeks at the destination. Fantastic.

[@prdubi]

Didn't know this still existed. Gonna explore this. Thanks for the video.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

No problem!

[@petecefa8443]

Oh my!!!! You've opened up my eyes. Thank you so much Chris!!!!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

My pleasure!!

[@joshuasims5421]

This is incredible! I'd never considered this would still be a possibility today. Thanks for leading with the price information, it does make a big difference.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Happy to help!

[@Zenocrat]

Great summary. I feel exactly as you do except the QM is CHEAPER than a flight. If you look around, you can go transatlantic for $799 (my wife and I did this two years ago from NY to Southhampton at this rate) and, even better, the third person (our son) was 1/2 price ... the entire trip for three came out to under $2,000. And we had three awesome meals every day, plus high tea every day, plus took advantage of all the on-board activities. I got off the ship feeling like I just engaged in theft, as the hotel portion alone would have cost me more than $2,000 state-side, the food alone would have cost me more than $2,000 state-side, and the entertainment alone would have cost me more than $2,000 stateside... but I got all this FOR FREE and only paid for travel, and at a lower fare than by jet. I have been singing the praises of traveling transatlantic by Cunard every since (I know, I know ... they should be paying me for this non-paid-for advertisement, but I feel this strongly about them!)

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Amazing!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, I did this journey in December 2023, and couldn't believe it was about the same as flying cost-wise - ridiculous! Really enjoyed this video, Chris!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Thanks!

[@bondspider007]

Thank you for making this video. Airports and airlines have been making travel so terrible lately I’m happy to try other options.

[@Easycators]

This sounds SO much better.

[@Greenplanet949]

Last year I flew to Rome and it was nightmarish. It was so bad, it cast a bit of a cloud over the vacation. I would love to go to the UK to see my family but I can’t face the idea of flying again. This is a terrific idea. Thank you for making this video.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

My pleasure.

[@NorceCodine]

Why was flying so bad?

[@Greenplanet949]

@NorceCodine First, there are hours at a grim airport, then crammed into a seat with no leg room, crying children on the flight (I don’t blame the kids; I felt like crying too), and the food is pig swill. The extra days are a boon. I have the time to cruise, as I’m retired. I talked to a friend and we’re going to book.

[@danerose575]

If the journey of getting there is not the qualities of getting there, something is off. The journey = the destination. It's nice to see this being highlighted so well. I love it.

[@playtowin6803]

I took this ‘Bucket List trip in June. So special, relaxing, good food, excellent service. Unforgettable to sail into NY harbor and seeing the Statue of Liberty. Never felt an ocean ripple once, very stable liner.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Great to hear!

[@karmelicanke]

That 's what I'd worry about , stormy seas and sea sickness. Glad to hear your crossing was a smooth as glass.

[@williammcfarlane4681]

Thanks for this great review...nicely written and interesting. It was great to listen to you after listening to a very depressing amount from two British women who repeatedly said they were bored, complained about the food, complained about the Quizzes, and said the passengers were too old and there wasn't enough for them to do. I had to laugh at that because while they complained there was nothing to do they repeatedly talked about all the opportunities onboard but they said they didn't want to do those things!!! Like you, I believe a voyage onboard an iconic ocean liner (QM2) is an affordable privilege not to be missed. In closing I would like to say there is so much happening on board you will never get to do everything even if you try. Thanks again for clearing the air. LOL Cheers

[@ChrisRandTravels]

They can't please everyone!

[@bobbywheels2136]

I’m a Brit and won’t travel with Brit’s if possible.

[@barryhaley7430]

It’s like going back to the 40s. We expected Humphrey Bogart to step into the bar at any moment. The luxurious formality, the big band music, the ballroom atmosphere! A great experience.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

I probably need your imagination!

[@barryhaley7430]

@@ChrisRandTravels No need to worry. Cunard provides that too.

[@RogerFleischer-p3f]

Several decades ago, a friend opted for the QM2 as a last-minute decision. He said he felt like a fish out of water because he did not have the extensive wardrobe required to be dressed like others for different activities and times of day.

[@jamesthompson3099]

@@RogerFleischer-p3f During the day, almost anything goes. Jeans, shorts, whatever. No bathing suits in the public rooms but other than that it is quite casual. After 6pm you need slacks and a proper shirt. Sport coat or tie optional. If you are going big time and want to go to the twice weekly gala ball then, yes, tuxes or dark suits are mandatory. Everywhere else just pretend you are going to a nice restaurant. It isn't a cruise ship so it isn't as casual. It is an old timey ocean liner trying to bring back the more "regal" atmosphere of the past.

[@LH-zv2zq]

Well narrated. This made a tremendous amount of sense. I'm tired of what it takes to fly, ocean liners here I come!

[@margaretWestminster]

Thank you so much for this great news I had no idea the price wouldn't be muck more. It sounds like the best idea ever . Thank you. 🚢✈️⚓

[@merak0044]

QM2 just came to my home town this past Friday. Came through the Fjord to the town of La Baie in Quebec, Canada. I was working that day. I’m a paramedic and they had a guest with medical problem. Had the privilege to go on the ship to get my patient. Nice installation, talked to the medical personnel, a Scottish gave me a tour of the “hospital”. Impressive!!! Those guests are in good Hands. Safe travels people and I’ll see you if you ever come down to Saguenay!!!! Keep an eye on a bright yellow ambulance with a paramedic sitting on the back bumper playing slide guitar! Come and say hi!!! 😊

[@mr2981]

You have inspired me to do this with my girls. Thank you.

[@CharlesDogworth]

I think it's a fantastic idea! I didn't know this was a thing again! Excellent!

[@dl11950]

We came to a similar conclusion back in 2017. We were planning on a fly over, sail home trip - but after adding economy air fare, a night or two in the UK & ground transport from London to Southampton, we were looking at a higher cost than a round trip crossing. We've done three round trip crossings in 2017, 2019, 2022 [with a 12 night side trip to Norway and Belgium] and will be doing our fourth this October.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Awesome!

[@Mrrossj01]

Trip includes room, board, and entertainment. The turnaround time is two weeks. Also, QM2 has a kennel. The cost does not include extras such as bar tabs or dining in the specialty restaurant it the pub. Also, they have a hospital in case of an emergency. U.S. travelers on Medicare should be aware that there is no Medicare coverage when you leave the U,S.

[@cynthiaoconnor7185]

Is the QM2 American owned? If so, my Medicare should be in effect so long as I am on (legally) American "soil".

[@EganDoris]

@@cynthiaoconnor7185 I believe Cunard is British. The QM2 is registered out of Bermuda, according to Google. I don't think you'd be on American soil.

[@tvguyjake]

@@cynthiaoconnor7185 seriously?

[@gdwlaw5549]

My partner is from NY and this is just an amazing surpise! SLOW things down and enjoy.....

[@EElgar1857]

Oh, I'm with you! I despise flying, and have made the crossing on QM2 about 9 times. But being a single traveller, I never get an inside cabin as cheaply as you have done. I fly home on BA at the end of my Europe trip, and it's acceptable, but not fun, even in Business!

[@ScottMatthews-gk8ef]

Thank you, have been thinking about a crossing for a while now & you’ve convinced me to finally book it! 👍🏻

[@ChrisRandTravels]

You should! I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

[@perrya.3580]

Thank you very much Chris! I'm amazed this still exists! I might have a need to go from London to Chile next year, and if I do, I'll make sure to do the London-New York leg of the trip this way!

[@flyshacker]

Good points! I never considered the jet lag factor. Flying somewhere with an instant 8 to 10 hour time change can take me 3 or 4 days to fully adjust. Making that time change gradually over a week by ship makes a compelling argument! Especially with the price being approximately the same. As you say, the big question is whether one has the time for the ocean voyage, but I think you have convinced me. Thank you!

[@rudolfabelin383]

Just saw Hercule Poirot travel on the Queen Mary. Even he was very pleased with the journey, he can be quite picky. This sounds tempting. Retirement is closing in. “It's not the destination, it's the journey” Best Greetings from Sweden

[@ChrisRandTravels]

I didn't bump into him! ;-)

[@mgweir3252]

This is brilliant. Although the cost of flying from the US to UK is cheaper than the price you were quoting, flying transatlantic in economy is a horrible experience. I week long luxury cruise would be a much better experience. I think I know what we will do when we both fully retire in 5 years. Thank you for the idea.

[@Transterra55]

Excellent video… I was so happy to run across this. I had no idea how inexpensive it was compared to traveling by air. Thanks so much for the information.

[@mikesarno7973]

Thanks for this video. I've been thinking about this cruise for a number of years. I'm even more determined to do this sooner rather than later.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad it was helpful!

[@carlsutherland8327]

This video is spot on. We disembarked yesterday from a very pleasant 7 day trip from New York to Canada. My only disagreement with Rand’s video is that to us the Britannia Restaurant food was slightly above average. While well presented, the dining is still mass produced. Everything else Rand says is absolutely correct. We would happily sail Cunard’s QM2 again.

[@nigelley2270]

Great video Chris - keep them coming

[@SeanChandler067]

That’s so cool - definitely a must-do trip

[@davidrojas426]

Very interesting. Will consider when I go to Europe next summer.

[@annemiura7767]

Thank you so much . I wasn’t aware that this was an option, a real ocean liner! I traveled on the original Queen Mary a couple of times when I was a little girl - how I would love to do it again on the QM 2. I have a long awful flight to get to New York from Hawai’i but just may be worth it😊

[@kaamkmca]

Thank you for making the comparisons. Your observations make great common sense. I have been on QM2 east to west and came back by plane (red eye), jet lagged on the flight, horrible experience.. Next time, I will do the journey both ways on QM2. Thank you, Chris, once again.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad it was helpful!

[@suecooper7021]

Really looking forward to trying this journey out from New York to Southampton in October 2025. Booked an inside cabin, the same price as an economy flight just as you said Chris. Great video by the way. Thanks 😊😊

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@Ivehadenuff]

You had me at hello. I’m going to go to England and will go one way by ship. Thanks!

[@billmiller1445]

Great informative video. Loved the shot of the Statue of Liberty beyond the bow of the Queen. Nicely done.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Thanks!

[@rjenglan]

My wife and I did the crossing from NY to Southampton in December '23 with a couple days to spend in London afterward. I wasn't sure I would care for it much. The thought of being among so many people was not appealing at all. However, I was pleasantly surprised and rather enjoyed the trip after all, not so much the return flight home. This year, we'll do the crossing from Southampton to NY after a MSC cruise from Southampton to Europe. The crossing is so much more pleasant than flying. :-)

[@mickyday2008]

Great review. I did this from Southampton to NY several years ago with my elderly mother. We had a great time. Would definitely recommend it if you have the time.

[@andiscott8470]

Yup. If you have the time to be able to travel this way then it makes total sense. I love crossing on QM2, wonderful. (done 6 now...) 🙂

[@BrendaConine-i1d]

Love the video Chris. Agree that this is a wonderful way to travel if you have the time. And you meet the nicest people!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Couldn't agree more!

[@RandellJohn]

My first cruise was a trans Atlantic from NY to Southampton. It was fantastic. As soon as we arrived home we booked a Caribbean cruise on her. The best holiday I’ve ever had. It’s a beautiful ship.

[@angelaregan475]

It is a beautiful ship but I prefer the Elizabeth or Victoria

[@TioDeive]

Sir it was a complete and welcome surprise to me. Thank you for that.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

You are most welcome.

[@Jasona1976]

I have taken both the QE2 and the QM2. Loved them both.

[@ellenflanagan2220]

I was on the same crossing. Loved every moment!

[@silverbaker2194]

My parents 1st did this crossing on the old QE2, they subsequently went on all the maiden voyages of all the current Cunard fleet. Although I have never been on any of them, my husband and I did see the QM2 in Liverpool last week as we docked on the Isle of Man seacat.

[@robertewalt7789]

We flew back from Southampton to NYC in 2011, and it was cheaper than flying. Biggest library afloat. Afternoon tea was amazing!

[@jessie4954]

Thank you Chris - brilliant video.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@williamdelmar3964]

On our "retirement" vacation to England we saw an ad from a travel agent on how to avoid flying to England. We booked on the Queen Mary and I will say it was not only nicer than flying, but the lack of jet lag was a great bonus. Gaining/Losing 0ne hour a day was an invisible adaptation.

[@m.m.4645]

You do not have to persuade us at all! We have done several Transatlantic crossings so far, and most of them on QM2! It is a fantastic way of travelling. We have sailed on inside, oceanview and balcony cabins, and each of them have been great. Our voyages were in every season you can imagine, and even on the December crossings you hardly notice any rough seas - okay, depending on the location of the cabin - so choose carefully! For us living in mainland Europe, we still need at least one flight to get home - unless we would take the Channel train. Thank you for your fair and detailed review.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Thanks!

[@SharylForster-om5uw]

Thanks for the enjoyable, interesting journey. Opening my eyes to alternate travel 😀

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Happy to hear that!

[@natasha8658]

WOW! Thank you for this

[@lindac6919]

I was on the QMII for a 10 day cruise from New York to Bahamas. It was a wonderful, wonderful trip. The sea days were awesome, and the islands were nice, too. One of the best memories of my life.

[@druegillis1744]

Still haven’t done a TA on the QM2 but have done 2 repositioning cruises on the return from visiting Europe. What a way to wind down after all the sightseeing over there! Going this month to Ireland, flying over, then a 2 day rest before an 11 day small group tour. After that, a short flight to Rotterdam and hopping a repositioning cruise to home. Those sea days allow you to reset your internal clock so when you arrive home, you feel relaxed and rested. The QE2 is on our bucket list!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Enjoy the trip!

[@paultetreault9243]

In the 80s I used to travel visiting Navy ships being built in LA and stay on the original Queen Mary. This would be great fun!

[@Albert-y7e]

We're planning a family trip to Europe and when we compared prices for travel there was no question, all agreed the ONLY way was transatlantic aboard Queen Mary 2. We're booking adjoining sheltered balcony staterooms; looking forward to the crossing, disembarking at Southampton, the train into Victoria Station and glorious London! As the old ads say, Go Cunard.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Enjoy!

[@angelaregan475]

London is not glorious. It is filthy and crime ridden.

[@seancrouse9623]

I'm sold! I have no plans to visit Europe at the moment, but when I do, you can believe this is how I will travel!

[@HR-wd6cw]

It depends on your priorities though. If you need to get somewhere quick, flying is usually preferred but if you have the time, train or boat is "better" because you can walk around, and do things, while making your way to your destination (flying... not so much, but you will likely reach your destination much faster, but it's more about transportation vs . an experience with sailing). Personally if I had the time, I wouldn't necessarily mind a transatlantic sailing once in my life just to experience it, but today's cruises (not the QE2 though) are more like floating modern cities.... the only difference being you may have 3000-6000 people crammed into a small space for a few days to a week.

[@Apoxonbothyourhouses]

I love the idea of no jet lag!

[@mtedwards]

It's on my wish list. Good vlog, btw👍🏻

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Thanks!

[@enjoystraveling]

So true, and on my voyage on the queen Mary two I made friends that I’m still in contact with, and I can’t say I’ve ever done that on a plane.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Me too!

[@Petersworld77]

Great video! Definitely going on the bucket list.

[@fanBladeOne]

same

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Thanks!

[@whitneymacdonald4396]

I love this. Thanks for making the video.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@joshuagaude6084]

I suspect if more people had the time to travel this way, more would over a plane. I work remotely and have toyed with the idea of working while on the ship to save a few vacation days for a trip to Europe, then work a few days on my way back home to the states.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Good idea.

[@sallyjune4109]

Be aware, you might have little Internet or it might be very expensive.

[@Richard-pe4cx]

having flown to canada and back this year this is so good its not just the flight it's the ques checking in security baggage allowance and then the food and you need days to get over the flights

[@bobbys4327]

My friend went to London about 2 months ago on the QM2. Coming back the ships power failed and they floated around out in the Atlantic for 7 hours. Roughly about 80 miles from the Titanic wreck.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Gosh, I didn't know about that. Glad they fixed it!

[@raedwulf61]

I never knew it was so affordable. I used to watch the QE2 sail past Jones Beach on Long Island and think, "What lucky people!" Adding this to my travel plans. Thanks!!!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Hope you enjoy it as much as I did one day!

[@Falney]

This is how I travel. I am 6'4" and don't fit in most economy seats. If I am going to spend £2500 on a plane ticket to have enough space anyway, I tend to go for the Britania Balcony if they have them available when I book.

[@ethercruiser1537]

Sounds great. Never thought the price would be competitive with jet fares!

[@GlobalAdventurer]

For solo travelers it's not a savings, but I have several bookings regardless.

[@glenrichards85]

Not sure about that got my sailing this December £1700 flight and return on qm2

[@GlobalAdventurer]

@@glenrichards85 1700 pounds equals $2264 USD. I can get a round trip flight for that much in Business Class. Round trip in Economy would be $400. I rather not fly at all, because that's my purpose of taking a cruise.

[@sallyjune4109]

​@@GlobalAdventurernow factor in room and board for 14 days.

[@GlobalAdventurer]

@@sallyjune4109 I agree, but the video is comparing flying cost vs cruising to the same destination. Flying is definitely cheaper, but for a 14 day (round trip) on QM2 will always be cheaper per day. And I always stay in hotels weekly/monthly to get a better rate.

[@rusty911s2]

Wow, that's amazing. Could fit me down to a tee. I'm not fussed by visiting multiple destinations, just get settled in to a relaxing routine. Now I just need to figure out how to hop over to Toronto afterwards to visit my brother before returning to the U.K.

[@phil00075]

Good for people who are afraid to fly and have plenty of time.

[@polishtheday]

You don’t have to be afraid to fly to dislike flying. I love being in the air regardless if it’s a two-passenger plane, a commercial flight or a trip in a helicopter. But I only fly now if there are no other options. Back when you could arrive at the airport with 15 minutes to spare, I enjoyed flying, especially when I didn’t have a bunch of luggage and the airport was close by. Now that you have to allow a couple of hours ahead of time and deal with traffic getting to most airports, plus security, plus strict luggage restrictions, flying is highly stressful.

[@AlistairBrugsch]

Not to mention cramped sardine cans, screaming children (probably mine) and terrible "food" and it's suddenly not hard to dislike flying despite not being "scared". I personally like the sound of a 7 day relax-fest as an antidote to a visit to hectic NYC (or anywhere else in the NE USA)

[@susanhopkinswarneke2335]

Wow! Adding this to my bucket list!

[@sandragoodman2059]

You have convinced me!

[@PeterMossUkulele]

I really enjoyed this video. Congrats. I have always wanted to explore New York for a few days with my family seeking out the sights and sounds. The one thing that puts me off if it was only a few days in NY was the hassle of the airports check in, baggage drop off / collection/weight restrictions etc and heavy security on both flights. This is such a great idea to extend the break with luxury travel and food/entertainment thrown in. It's a bargain when you think you get all that extra and for a similar price to flying. You have definitely planted a seed. Thank you.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Hope it works out for you one day!

[@kmooney1954]

Many thanks Chris for this very informative video. I am a British expat living in Vancouver and see this as a great way to get across the pond. My wife and I are recently retired and looking to take our next UK trip in 2025. When I get to UK (Southampton), I need to rent a car. Is it difficult to get to a reputable rental car outlet? Would be great if you could help by perhaps doing a video of the various ways of getting out of Southampton (please!). Aso, which is the best way to go about booking the voyage - direct online or through travel agent?

[@ChrisRandTravels]

The car parking is opposite the terminal at Southampton, I'd imagine that if rental firms didn't have offices there, they'd at least deliver the cars if requested. I'll investigate! Cunard's website is pretty good, it should be quick enough to compare prices there with a travel agent.

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

Thank you for this video. I never considered sailing overseas and have it be so reasonable!!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad it was helpful!

[@penneyburgess5431]

For those of us on the western side of America, we’d still have to fly to New York before taking the QM. Doesn’t save any money for us at all. SeaTac flights to Europe also fly directly north over the pole instead of across America and then over the Atlantic. Money wise from where I live flying is definitely cheaper especially if taking a Red Eye flight. However, if money were no object, the Queen Mary sounds like a wonderful experience, and the idea of bringing extra luggage at no additional cost is also a great advantage. I’m putting this on my bucket list for sure. Thank you!❤

[@giles4411]

Thanks for the heads up Chris.....I've been to NYC many times but never in a month of Sunday's would I have considered taking a cruise. I'm looking to book asap after this!

[@egpx]

I did the crossing last June. It was a six night westbound crossing and I enjoyed the experience, not so much though that I want to do it again in a hurry. Saying it is a similar price to flying is pushing it a bit though. I paid £1300 for my crossing, the cheapest fare available. Next year the same crossing will be £1700. That crossing goes on June 6. A quick look at Skyscanner quotes a Gatwick-JFK flight on that day with Norse Atlantic at £245. A return fare with BA, coming back a week later, starts at £407. If you are travelling as a couple it is better value as the one way crossing costs £1960 so £980 each. It is still more than twice the return airfare though. Also, taking seven days to get somewhere as opposed to seven hours isn't really practical for most people, especially with only one departure each way a month. I will also mention the hour long queue to check-in and two hour wait to disembark and make it into the USA wasn't much better than the airport experience. I'm not dissing the QM2 or Cunard, as I said, I enjoyed the experience and will never forget the iconic arrival into New York, but you are in effect comparing two different things.

[@PissChrist.999]

its great, for 2,but if you go solo you have to share the cabin with another,or pay for a 2nd ticket....

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Fair comment. I can only report on the costs as I found them. I realise that some crossings are more expensive.

[@egpx]

@@ChrisRandTravels I suspect a June crossing is more expensive than a November one but the crossing has to be viewed as part (or all) of your holiday rather than the getting there, in which case it's actually reasonable value.

[@chrissharkeyai]

This is an amazing video very well done, thank you!

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Emslander]

Air travel has become unacceptably irritating and uncomfortable. The treatment by government and airline prison guards is simply barbaric. The QMII has great appeal. Might try it.

[@bigrich6750]

That was fantastic. I had no idea.

[@TimK2646]

The Atlantic weather is so unpredictable. The Ship is wonderful and the service on board is exceptional.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Yes, I've been lucky but I think most crossings are very smooth.

[@michaelbaker602]

@@ChrisRandTravelsI think John Jacob Astor felt the same way until about 11:40 on April 14, 1912.

[@mt.shasta6097]

​​@@michaelbaker602 Yeah, but Mr. Astor was misled. Any ship can and will sink! And, as you say, it WAS 1912. Little was known then about metal quality.

[@WattTheTech]

We have been thinking about doing this for a year or so now, just need to book it. Love the idea of a slower pace and plenty of time to relax. Nice video, didnt even think about the time difference, jet lag thats another bonus doing it this way.

[@royking7298]

Be sure to PLAN LONG IN ADVANCE!!!! It's booked up for over a year most of the time.

[@ChrisRandTravels]

Keep checking, I do see some availability for voyages in the next few months.

[@carolecarr1064]

We have thought about this for a long time, but we would still have to fly from the west coast to NY.

[@johnpointon4462]

Excellent outline of the advantages of choosing QM2 over flying. If the time is available then there really is no contest. Worth mentioning that onboard internet has improved hugely since last year, it is now fast enough for most work requirements and reasonably priced. We experienced VERY heavy weather a few years back in December - storm/hurricane force winds and sea state 10 for a couple of days. Stability and comfort onboard was amazing, the dining rooms were still very well attended during mealtimes so most passengers were unaffected. My only criticism is that, by drawing attention to what a phenomenally good option this is, more people will start booking and fares will increase !..

[@ChrisRandTravels]

I hope not! But we can't keep it our secret forever...

[@johnparr5879]

Indeed. Comfort. And. Enjoy....... Just two critical factors...... in..... This Life.... The costs long forgotten.... While the memory of... JOY... Still......... Remains*. Thank you...

[@chrislowe3060]

I think it depends on where you live. If you’re a European you probably have more time than money. If you’re an American you likely have more money than time. Here in the USA we have ZERO days of holiday time by law. Many people who work full-time jobs will get 2 weeks of paid holiday time per year. That’s barely enough to make this round trip voyage and that’s assuming you take no other time off. By comparison, UK citizens who work 5 days/week are entitled to 28 days of annual leave making a trip of this duration far more accessible.

[@AlistairBrugsch]

Though most employers restrict to a max of 2 weeks at a time unless circumstances are exceptional (wedding (yours), bereavement etc) Might consider this for my 50th... The hassle of air travel means after your trip you usually say "I need a vacation after my vacation!" This is that. Fly out, spend hectic time in NYC, sail back. I like the sound of that

[@johnsaunders1945]

Thank you. I have been thinking about the round trip and now I'm sold.