Until you mentioned that I'd forgotten that we used to meet a lot of crew and some contractors in the corridor on Deck 4.
4014 was far enough away not to be disturbed by parties or slamming doors fortunately.
Fingers crossed, I don't know how they could be so confident so far in advance of their arrival in New Zealand. Plenty of ships have been caught out this season, not just Queen Elizabeth.
Do you usually pay your onboard account in cash? I've never had a drinks package but I would think if you buy on board the cost is added to your account in same way as any other spending.
It's quite a long way forward so you might get noise from the bow thrusters when docking and the theatre during performances and rehearsals. On the other hand these balconies are much bigger than those on higher decks although this one will have a metal front.
There's a link to a photograph of a Deck 4 balcony in this thread.
Unfortunately you need to be in Queens Grill to get Welcome champagne, Princess Grill gets Sparkling Wine.
At least you can take your own on board if you want the real thing.
There is usually a shuttle unless you are in the centre of the town. There used to be a list on the Cunard website but I can't find it now.
If you post your ports someone will probably know.
This sounds like a nightmare for everyone, thanks for the updates and I hope there is a better outcome next season.
Have a great trip even if it's not the one you'd planned.