sw18

Just to add to my last post above....the odd upgrade is understandable given the size of the QM2 e.g. a P1/P2 to a Q5/Q6 - but upgrades from an A2 to a Q4, or a D inside to an AA, happen, and often.....it's almost like they are mocking those paying for a PG or QG :mad:

Maybe Cunard are having trouble filling their ships :confused:

Silversea's crossings are generally 1-16 days, usually via the southern route, but occasionally via the North Atlantic in early September, and have 3-4 ports of call on either side of the pond giving you the best of both worlds, without the frenetic activity that comes from being in a new port every day.

I have to say that QG on Cunard is very poor value for money when compared to the likes of Silversea, Crystal et al. Cunard seem to value lower yielding frequent cruisers, than occasional high yielding full fare QG & PG passengers.....you just have to compare the Cunard World Club benefits to see..... a £700 crossing on a late deal & a £4000 QG on the same voyage accrues the same benefits.

The Grills on Cunard are also devalued by the frequent, & sometimes indiscriminate, upgrades to free up space in lower categories for last minute bargain fares.......

Other gripes.....

- No priority tender for PG or QG until you are in a Q4

- Yes, you get 2 bottles of spirits for you minibar in QG, but you have to plan ahead, when you're getting low you need to call your Butler, fill in a form & then you get it the next day. Also the choice is more limited than Silversea where bottles are replenished without question & automatically, even towards the end of a cruise.

- Disembarkation at Southampton is poorly managed & ended up being a free for all - Grill pax can embark at their leisure....why should they have to fight to disembark?

- The QG restaurant is fantastic (better than Silversea- main restaurant, Sea Dream, on a par with Oceania in the main restauarant & is only bettered by Silversea in Saletta/Le Champagne, but the fantastic service & food is let down by a really poor selection of cheese.....

We are committed to one more QM2 voyage & cannot cancel for family reasons, but if we do return to big ship cruising from Southampton it will be in a suite on Celebrity Eclipse.

I'd stick with Silversea.....they are far more consistent & far better value.