The QM2 transatlantic

My wife and I cross the Atlantic yearly on the Queen Mary 2 of Cunard Line (800/728-6273), usually in both directions — an elegant and comfortable way to get to Europe to visit our daughter.

We take a balcony stateroom. We made our 12th voyage in July ’13, and the fare on the lower decks was $1,699 per person, double occupancy, but fares for inside cabins started at $1,199.

We’ve cruised with other lines, but we enjoy the comfort of the QM2 and the elegance of the ship — its interior design and appointments — as well as its superior amenities and the high quality of service. 

It’s a 7-night crossing. Three nights are formal (for men, dinner jacket, tuxedo or dark suit with tie; most men wear tuxedos), two nights are semiformal, and the first and last nights are smart-casual (jacket and nice slacks, with a hard-collared shirt). 

Guests wishing to dress more casually can dine at a buffet and use one lounge but otherwise should not use other public areas of the ship.

We most enjoy the presentations by guest speakers. On one crossing we heard from a retired member of the Beefeaters (guards) from the Tower of London. Other speakers have given us insights into the lives of movie directors, actors and royalty.

A close second is the variety of musical entertainment. The activities listed for just one day on our last trip included a performance by an orchestra, a string quartet, lunchtime melodies, afternoon tea with a harpist, poolside music, nightclub music and line, ballroom and Latin dancing.

QM2 sports the largest library afloat, a large casino, a planetarium, several alternate places to dine besides the main dining room, six bars and lounges, upscale shops, a spa and a Shakespearean theater. There is always something to do except between the time when the nightclub closes and 4 a.m., when a continental breakfast is set out.

Here are other activities that were offered on the QM2: classes on computer study, fitness, watercolor, flower art, needlework, scarf tying and beginner’s and intermediate bridge, lectures on Cunard’s historic ships, military history and art, movies, a fashion show, bingo, a darts competition and a deck quoits tournament.

I’d be happy to respond to questions. Send email to me through ITN.

KENT SHAMBLIN

Beaver Bay, MN