CRUISING ON THE QE2

As most of you more than likely know the QE2 is the most recognized single cruise ship in the world. The Cunard brand name is one of most recognized names as well. But what does this really mean to you and your clients? Let me try to put it into words after only a few short days on this floating Palace. When departing New York City, which is worth the price of the Cruise in itself, we where followed by a flock of helicopters and an armada of private yachts all taking pictures. In Portland, Maine, the most popular tour being sold on land was a trip cruising around the QE2 and as the ship departed it seemed that everyone in the area that owned a yacht was sailing around the QE2. Upon arrival in Bal Harbor the Portland newspaper was available at the dock and the QE2 was front-page news and photos.

Where ever the QE2 goes it attracts a crowd and attention. But more than likely your participants are thinking of the famous QE2 World Cruise with a brochure price tag of $356,000.00 for 104 days in the top suite. The perception of a cruise on the QE2 is priceless!

Life on board the QE2 is going to surprise many of you!
It is not wheel chair races down cabin hallways that can honestly fit three at a time.

The first "real" passenger I spoke with as we sail by the Statue of Liberty was 35 to 40 years old and had already done 17 Transatlantic sailing's. He takes the QE2 to Europe before of after his business meetings in Europe to either "collect my thoughts or summarize my successes." According to the cruise staff most of the passengers during the summer transatlantic crossings are middle aged and looking for just a relaxing break from a heck day-to-day schedule.

The QE2 offers an onboard program that is as active as you want or as Relaxed as you can get. In addition to the normal cruise fare of shows and entertainment we have onboard an artist and painter, a motivation and communications Professor, a historian and psychologist, an art instructor, and a bridge instructor. All are providing daily lectures and informal chats. On top of all of this we have the Broadway Bound Theater Company presenting a musical comedy that is still a work in progress as well as offering workshops about their craft.

Other "normal" entertainment includes a movie theater with balcony for first run films, more piano players/singer than I can count, a great harpist, a jazz band, an orchestra, an outstanding top 40's band and a South Beach quality DJ. The typical nightly shows being presented are with entertainers that are one step above what you will normally find on other ships. There's a lot to do here day and night.

There are numerous other things on the QE2 that sets this ship apart from the others. Based on how much you pay for your cabin is dining room assignment.

At the very top is the Queens Grill, then comes the Princess and Britannia Grills each holding about 100 guests, the larger Caronia Restaurant also is an opening seating dining room as are all the Grills. Finally there is the Mauritania Restaurant which has the traditional first and second seatings.

What is the difference between each one of these elegant rooms? Very simply put it is more choices for each course, more elaborate menus and more staff per table. The food is fantastic in the Grills and I would highly taking over any one of them for a group. The Queens Grill and Princess Grill also come with their own private lounge as well.

Additionally the QE2's Lido offers breakfast, lunch and alternative casual dining nightly. True to QE2 style you will find, tablecloths, candles, crystal, silver and china for your nightly meal in this casual room.

The Pavilion serves Continental Breakfast and light grilled dishes pool side with extended hours. High Tea, well this is a British Ship, so high tea is a daily EVENT that is even served poolside in a trolley right to your deck chair.

Still hungry? Try the midnight snack in the Lido. Can't decide, well then there is always an extensive room service menu always available.

So what is the service like? In all of the dining rooms, lounges and other public areas you will be more than likely serve by British staff. Sir or Madame or your sir name will address you. In general think of a 5 Star London Hotel.

The QE2 went thru a massive refit in late 1999. The ship today looks like new and according to resident ships historian is actually better than new. The classic woodwork has been restored in all public areas and cabins. New carpeting, drapes, chairs and other soft furnishings all have been done with perfect taste for this magnificent ship. The ship has an inescapable feel and look of understated elegance.

On the two decks which hold the majority of public rooms you will be impressed with high ceilings, ocean views from port to starboard and wide passage ways. Each room has it's own personality while at the same time blending one room to the next. There are so many different rooms and venues it will take you several days just to find them all.

Cabins onboard the QE2 are a mixed bag as this ship was built before the days of modular cabins. There are many different sizes and style of cabins so selecting the right ones for your group can be a challenge. But with Choices of anything from a two deck level apartment to a single occupancy cabin there is something for everyone, at the right price.

My cabin, located on the Britannia Grill level, is well over 250 sq ft. It has a walk in closet, another closet the size you normally find on a Caribbean cruise ship and a tremendous amount of drawer space. The bathroom has a full size tub and shower, a thick terry robe and logo slippers. Fresh fruit, flowers and a tray ceiling all make for one nice cabin.

The QE2 also offers both an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool, extensive spa facilities and a nice gym. The library is the largest at sea and requires Two full time librarians. The thalasso-therapy pool is another popular area as well. The ship does offer several exclusive meeting areas for groups plus a great business center.

What groups should you consider for a QE2 cruise? As the QE2 offers very few short cruises the most space is available on the 6 night Transatlantic Cruises, New York to South Hampton or in reverse. No ports of call but instead 6 nights at sea to enjoy a really great ship and a chance to relax, if you want.

In speaking with the crew on the ship the majority of the passengers on these cruises today are middle aged. The are experienced travelers. They're on board to relax but at the same time be able to take advantage of cultural Enrichment and a variety of interesting entertainment and diversions. People bond and make lasting friendships.

Cruising on the QE2 might be a once in a life time experience for many people.

It is a ship and a cruise line that have instant name recognition and association with the "BEST". It is a cruise and a ship that will talked about long after the program is done.

This report is submitted by Steve Bloss - September 2000.  The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of WWTCA.

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