After many years of cruising, this was our first Transatlantic crossing and our first Cunard voyage. January 4th weather was mild and seas were only moderate, this beautiful ship barely moved the entire time. She is very steady and solid. Promenade was nice and wide for strolling or lounging. Interior was tasteful and elegant, no "bling-bling" here. Food was excellent, tasty, excellent variety, well-spaced buffet stations, no traffic jams although the bay window eating areas in the Kings Court buffet (Lido-style eating area) seemed a bit cramped. Brittania dining room was very nice, noticed several (large tables only/formal nights) had candleabras lit with real candles, nice effect. Entertainment was first rate, guest speakers were all very good, shows were well-done, high-caliber dancers. Library was staffed and well-stocked with large windows, excellent selection of books, adjacent to a very nice bookstore with many historic and classic maritime books. Bridge announcements at noon in English/German/French, tasteful and not intrusive. Balcony cabin was very comfortable and spacious. The actual balcony we had was partially enclosed as opposed to one higher up that would be free of sea spray, but still a large opening and a full-length view from the glass doors of our cabin. The ship was spotless, and that is very important to us. Shopping onboard was good, however the only thing I wrote up in the commentary was the "sale" tables displaying watches, t-shirts, rings, scarves, and such, which one often see on our American ships towards the end of a cruise. This was a bit of a disappointment to us and I feel Cunard resents this relatively new "Princess Cruises" influence.

The most impressive aspect was the service. From the moment we boarded and were warmly-greeted by two rows of uniformed, white gloved staff, to the well-orchestrated disembarkation, everyone, the entire staff, were consistently polite, courteous and professional. Overall, very high marks for Cunard Line and the beautiful QM2! We'll be back!