MylesS

I can't speak for numbers but we saw & spoke to a lot of our favourite crew from QM2. It was actually really nice, as it gave a "welcome home" / "you are home" feel while it still being a brand new environment. The new crew aren't or weren't bad, they just weren't up to traditional Cunard standards yet. Though those standards are learned on the job for the most part in my opinion. I overheard a lot of crew say they used to work on MSC ships though.

I'm not sure the exact number of passengers, but we never struggled to find seating in venues we wanted to sit at. Goldon Lion and Queens Room you'd need to go a bit before any event, but that is the case on the other ships too. The Theatre we actually never had a problem finding a spot, even when arriving a few minutes before events. They were well populated, too. Maybe this is because there is 3 entrances. (One either side of deck 2, and the main ones on deck 3)

Already been sent a survey to complete by Cunard - different to previous ones as this focuses more on Queen Anne + the service we recieved.

Have a fantastic time. Yes, the weather in the South is lovely. We've just returned to London and it feels like we're still in Lisbon!

Hi all, Well we're back from Queen Anne after disembarking from her maiden voyage at 9:30am this morning. Some of you may know I've been updating the live thread, however I've wanted to type a seperate post combining all my thoughts and opinions, and expand on some I left on that thread. Queen Anne vs The "Vistas" and QM2 Before I start, I'd like to note that I've now done all four currently in service Cunard ships. That being said, I primarily sail on QM2, having done 16 trips on her. I've done the Elizabeth twice and Victoria once. So I don't have too much experience to compare Queen Anne to her Vista-class sisters, so my apologies if some things I point out are the same on those vessels. Embarkation As has been mentioned, priority embarkation for Platinum and Diamond members was revoked this cruise due to the influx of loyalty members with these tiers. However, this was no problem for us. Thankfully we were given a 13:30 embarkation time. We had timed our train journey and short walk to the Mayflower Cruise Terminal perfectly, and arrived at around 13:35 - we were whisked through check-in and security, and were on the ship around 20 minutes later. I've heard some complains in other areas online about embarkation being bad, but I'd bet my two cents on these people arriving before their embarkation time and expecting to be let on. There were lots of people waiting who I think tried this. The terminal was nicely decorated in what I'll call the "Queen Anne branding" - colorful backgrounds with the new font used for the ship's name. We boarded deck 2 mid ships into stairway B, and were instructed to go to our muster station before exploring. We did so, and dropped off our carry ons in the cabin. The Cabin On this trip we had an inside cabin, which was actually very nice. We had a lengthways cabin, which meant we opened the door right next to the bed. This was great as it meant the TV was in front of the bed, and close enough where you didn't have to have it too loud when watching movies or shows. There was enough storage for us, though we do pack lightly. We did our 7 week summer cruise with two and a half suitcases after all. Though, I will say, the fridge was tiny. It won't fit anything, including the Pol Aker that was left for us on the desk, now warm. The bathroom was fantastic, and if having that style & size of bathroom means a little less storage space, I'm all for it. We did have some issues with flushing, but again, brand new ship and to be expected. There is a small bed-side controlled light by the bathroom floor for finding it at night. Along with this button, a lot of modern ports & plugs. A great improvement was the TV system, on-demand movies, TV shows, and more. We think the interface was easy to understand as well. The talks are being recorded and you can now pick and select which one you'd like to watch, rather than having to keep on the ever-repeating channel hoping the one you want is next. You can view your onboard account now too. We'd happily stay in this cabin again, especially the lengthways configuration. It's very reminiscent of the single oceanviews on Deck 3 of QM2. Just with no windows. Britannia Restaurant Our first evening was met with a slow service in Britannia, so we had decided to book a specialty instead. We had returned for the final two nights (as we had pre-booked the other speciality restaurants for the rest of the cruise) and everything was as expected. Very well done to the members of staff for adapting so quickly, under what I'm sure were very stressful conditions. The space is lovely. Though it has a lot of movement, something we've not been used to so much on QM2 (for the weather we were having, anyway). We had our wine tasting on Deck 3 of the restaurant a few days into the voyage, which was lovely and also a nice surprise, as I wasn't expecting it on this trip. Cunard seemed to have upped the cheese quality there to clear your palate. Speciality Dining I don't know how I can describe this or convey how good these were. They were all absolutely fantastic, and so much better than expected. Great views from all four venues, especially Aji Wa & Sir Samuel's. The service was even better than the food. I really do think the level of service we had was the closest you could get to a Grills' service without paying the premium. I see the appeal to the Grills', more specifically Queens Grill due to the impressive suites and butler, but in the case of Princess Grill, on Queen Anne I'd opt to do a balcony cabin and pay extra to eat in the speciality restaurants each night. I'd 100% recommend the speciality, especially Aji Wa to anyone in any grade of cabin. Compared to QM2, I wouldn't bother with the extra dining if in the Grills. The Pavilion A great space that even when busy still felt relaxed, at least to me. Modern music being played, but not too loud - a good balance I'd say. The Wellness Cáfe was great for lunches, and while the queue for the burger bar was long, that too was worth the wait given its at no extra charge. The screen didn't serve much purpose on our voyage, the most I saw it used was to show random people at the World Club Parties. I did however see a popcorn machine, so I'm hoping they'll have movies there in the future with popcorn being handed out. Other than the stateroom TV, there is nowhere to watch movies on the ship. Deck Space There is a lot of talk about the promenade deck on Queen Anne, and while yes, what there is isn't much, especially compared to QM2 - no one is talking about how much deck space there is on the top decks. There is SO much, with SO many deck chairs, some private, some more public. Up on those decks I'm sure there is something for everyone. Entertainment The entertainers who were onboard did not disappoint, and all seemed very excited to be on Queen Anne for her maiden voyage, maybe even more excited than some passengers. We also tried Archery! Wow, what great fun. It took around an hour, but it flew by. We can't wait to try this again on our next voyages. You do have to sign away some rights, and acknowledge your travel insurance covers archery, as well as some other things, but its quick. For a complimentary experience, it was very good. Bright Lights is hands down the best entertainment I've ever had on a Cunard or any other ship. I won't spoil too much as I think that ruins it, but I am looking forward to the other shows. Great cast & crew, all full of energy. Food I won't list all food items as the post is getting a bit long, I may update if requested. But the food was the best I've had for a while on a Cunard ship. Some similar items, but better ingredients used I think. Perhaps during the maiden season there is a larger budget for this. Crew All things considered, the crew were great on this trip. Some new faces, some old. Old faces had a mixture of time on the ship, some leaving next month for their original, some on until September. The new crew are doing well, but some still need that little extra touch that a lot of the classic Cunard crew can do by default now. I'm sure they'll learn it soon! Conclusion We had a fantastic time, and I couldn't be happier. We were sad to leave. We're really fortunate to return in four weeks, and I think by then any issues we did have will have been resolved. But even then, they won't ruin the trip if they're not. All things take time. I'd recommend people to try Queen Anne. New things are scary, but at the same time, that's half the fun of it. As long as people are constructive with their feedback, I'm sure Cunard will listen if enough people raise it. Thanks for reading! I'll update anything if needed, but am happy to discuss further as well.

I tried the Golden Lion burger from room service last night, and I will say that was to me worth $11, very well presented (looked like a burger you’d see in an advertisement!), great quality ingredients and filling. Maybe not something I’d get everyday for many obvious reasons, but a once in a while treat definitely.

Happy to report our waitlist came through, and we’ll be spending a total of 23 nights on Queen Anne from the 7th of June 🙌

Stopped off at the cabin to find a letter and gift from the captain.

Lunch in the Golden Lion today, fast service and good food. While the Cheese Toastie was good, I’d don’t think I’d pay $7.50 for it again.

Yes that I can understand. Here’s to hoping you’ll have a nice window seat though!

Arguably it’s all opinionated. I’m not one to tell you what to do with your money, but if i may, give her a try - you may, and honestly probably will, be surprised in a good way!

We walked last week from the train station, perfectly doable.

Truth be told I was worried the week would fly by, and while it has gone quick, not as quick as I was worried about. So I’m happy!

We really wish we could extend, there’s been availability all week. Unfortunately it clashes with some business travel towards the end of the month. That being said, we’re waitlisted for the 7th of June Western Mediterranean and booked on the 23rd of June Fjords trip. While we’re sad to leave, we’re even happier to have been on the ship and have thoroughly enjoyed it.

Yes all 3 were on the menu this evening

Returned to Britannia this evening after having speciality for the other nights, and happy to report service have heavily improved!

We’ve booked the same cabin for a cruise in 46 days time, I’ll report back if it’s still there 😂

I said this on embarkation day to my partner, but I think for something so small it’s absolutely brilliant

There is a light switch for it by the bed. It’s so you don’t have to leave the bathroom light on, or turn on the main lights should you need to use the toilet at night.

I’m not sure if it’s related, but we were late leaving (around an hour) so possibly anything planned was cancelled

The slot machines seem to have a higher minimum stake as well. Most are 88c minimum

It’s a shame the original itinerary was changed with the ship being delayed, as we were scheduled to stay here overnight.

For anyone who may be interested, I overheard they’re aiming to offer the behind the scenes tour from the 3rd of June.

I’m looking forward to hear what she’ll say when it breaks down 🤣