NancyDrew1953

I’m also on the QM2 now. The 10:15 pm start for the second theater performance appears to be a permanent change (at least according to a senior on board officer). I am in the Club so not directly affected by problems in the main dining room, but from what I observed (and heard others discuss), last night, which was the first night of the westbound crossing, was a complete mess. Hopefully for those dining there, it gets better as the crossing progresses.

An update on the passenger who was evacuated by helicopter off the QM2 at about 1 am this morning the captain was just provided. Fortunately, according to our captain, the person is doing well. Thus, a relatively happy ending to the incident.

I too have been on this journey since New York and will be on board until back in New York. I haven’t posted before on this topic due to a combination of just very busy enjoying the QM2 and the less than great internet. I am on deck 12, and there is no internet in my cabin, but satisfactory in the public areas. My greater frustration is with the My Voyages site. Several times since NewYork it was not working, and the purser’s desk first claimed that the issues were being addressed by IT and then that the problem was with my IPhone or my IPad. Right now, it seems fine. My only other “complaint” has been how cold the Royal Court Theater and Illuminations has been. Even well bundled up with sweaters, it has been uncomfortable. In comparison, Noway was not as cold as I had expected. Norway was a beautiful and a fascinating place; I would like to someday visit in the summer. We had an unexpected medical helicopter evacuation about 1 am this morning. I only hope that the passenger is fine. Overall, however, it has been a wonderful experience. Loved the lectures, the entertainment, the food and the crew. Although many passengers were disappointed with the necessary change in the itinerary, I greatly enjoyed the unexpected stop in Belgium and my tour of Ypres and the Flanders Field museum. I just don’t want it this journey to end! (In fact, I am booked to do the eastbound crossing in early December).

Thanks to everyone that has responded to my questions. It has been so helpful! A couple of more questions: (1) Does the Britannia Restaurant (or elsewhere) serve decaffeinated black tea? If not, can I bring my own and just ask for hot water? (I drink so much tea that my doctor insists that most of it be decaffeinated, although occasionally I indulge in regular tea.) (2) Do the balcony cabins (not grills) provide binoculars in the room? or should I bring my own? (3) Is there a blanket provided to use when enjoying the balcony? If not, other suggestions? I know it will be cold and am packing accordingly, but would like to sit outside, sipping tea. Host Hattie, your photo of the flowers was beautiful! I will definitely order some once on board.

Although technically not a newbie, this is the first time I've ever traveled as a solo; in the past, it has been as part of a group and someone else has always taken care of all the details. I have signed up at the Roll Call and looking forward to meeting others on this journey. I am very, very excited about this adventure, but have lots of questions! I have tried to search these boards, but as I'm not that computer literate, I have not much success finding answers to my questions. I have a balcony cabin (not Grills). Specifically: (1) I am interested in the two alternative dining locations, particularly the Verandah. Are reservations for singles (not sharing a table) available? Would it be double the cost since I would be taking up a table for two? Thoughts / recommendation on the alternative dining options? Best time to schedule this on a 26-day trip? Do I need to make reservations before boarding? (2) Although the website indicates that flowers for the cabin can be ordered prior to boarding, is it possible to order flowers once on board? (3) Do the cabin attendants normally provide ice daily? (4) Is there a gathering / meeting onboard for singles? I've printed out my boarding pass and luggage tag already, and my luggage is already half-packed! If you have any insight on my questions or thoughts about anything I've failed to ask, it would be much appreciated.