Firstly, let me assure you that this stunning cruise ship is the epitome of traditional British elegance and exquisite floating luxury. How anyone can rate their Cruise Critic review for the beautiful Queen Victoria as only 1 or 2 stars is just ridiculous. The outstanding service starts the moment you arrive at the embarkation building. Porters whisk your luggage away straight to the security scanners as you step out of the taxi, leaving you a carefree, lightweight meander into the large and airy terminal building. Check in was quick and painless, with a swift move through security and onto embarkation. As you set foot onboard, you are greeted by the most amazing decor, almost like stepping back in time to the elegant Victorian days, lightly feathered with a modern twist. The cabins are very spacious, immaculate and very comfortable. We were greeted with a chilled bottle of champagne on ice by our bedside, with slippers and dressing gown to relax in whilst we waited for our luggage which was also very prompt to arrive. The ship has so much to do onboard, (but dont expect endless energetic activities like you find onboard Royal Caribbean or P&O ships).

The Queen Victoria, as with all Cunard ships, has far more elegance and to be honest, a far better clientele, than you find on other cruise lines. This ship is a grand lady, gently gliding through the waves with such grace. The food can only be described as spectacular. The daily menu is brimming with an endless choice of truly delicious delicacies and professionally prepared dishes. Your daily activities programme is overflowing with things to do, but again dont expect rock climbing walls, ice skating, surf boards and bumper cars as you get on other cruise ships- you will instead receive a choice of knitting, needlework and scarf tying classes! I jest you not, this is genuine, but dont be alarmed, there are also lots of more modern pass times to enjoy, such as screenings of the latest Hollywood blockbuster movies, pub quizzes, dance lessons, fantastic spa treatments and a games room, for both young children, teenagers and adults. The evening theatre shows and guest entertainers are of West End standards, and indeed some do actually hail from there. The staff are very friendly, every single one smiles and says hello as you pass by.

The whole ship is kept immaculate, and despite there being 2000 or so passengers onboard, the ship is large enough, yet also personal and privately compact enough to enjoy spacious, un-interrupted "you" time. The daily afternoon tea is a MUST!! But make sure you arrive at least half an hour before the opening time to get a table, as this is very popular. The sandwiches and cakes are fantastic. We all know that the weather is a major factor in most people's holidays, and we were very fortunate to enjoy superb sunshine at every port we visited and also whilst sailing at the north sea which was a very pleasant surprise! Read more