Queen Mary 2 (QM2) Review
Attitude of Cunard regarding cabin allocation spoilt it
Rating by category
Additional details
We wanted to experience their 'iconic' transatlantic crossing so we booked a back to back crossing. Had it not been for the experience of storm conditions, 15m waves and the unexpected rescue of a lone yachtsman the westbound crossing would have been a disappointment. There was nothing 'special' about the voyage at all. The food in Britannia was good but hadn't changed since our last QM2 voyage 4 years ago. Kings Court was ok but still a scrum although it now has quieter areas and the Corinthia Lounge was good for a lighter snack. The entertainment was poor except for a group called the Barricade Boys who were excellent.
The port of Halifax was a very pleasant stop with an easy walk into the town. On arrival in New York we took the Cunard transfer excursion into the city but with hindsight we wouldn't bother to get off the ship if we did a back to back again. The transfer was late leaving because Cunard had miscounted/lost people and took over an hour to get back to the ship. Cunard should provide a free transfer not ask for $49 each.
The return voyage had much better insight speakers and an excellent comedian Mike Doyle. The crossing itself was very calm and uneventful. The food was becoming a little repetitive by this stage. We had bought a pass each for the Canyon Ranch Spa on embarkation which was worth it for the type of crossing and the weather conditions but the Spa area could do with refurbishment and someone patrolling the hogging of the sun beds.
Cabin Review
Standard Inside
This cabin is directly underneath the Kings Court Galley and next to the crew staircase. There was continual noise from the galley above and from the crew staircase in the void next to the cabin, even in the early hours of the morning. After 1 night of interrupted sleep and reporting it to the pursers office on numerous occasions the next day our complaint was followed up by a visit from the deck manager who acknowledged our plight and moved us to 4149.
We had phoned Cunard on receiving our cabin allocation before embarkation and asked for a quieter cabin but to no avail. We were told to complain to the purser once on board.
Not good enough Cunard. We might have booked a saver fare but don't try pushing your world club gold customers into rubbish cabins.
Port Reviews
Halifax
Pleasant walk straight off the ship. Lots of museums, shops and craft beer