Complete Newbie Alert - QM2

[moomoocow]

Good eveing fellow boarders! :)

 

I am in the process of booking for 25th October 2007 Westbound S'ton to NY and also the Caribbean Cruise 10 day thereafter. It will be my boyfriends 30th birthday on day of departure (I'm hoping for enough brownie points to get a shiny new ring for my fourth finger left hand if you get my drift!) and this is seriously going to be a trip of a lifetime for us. We have never cruised before (the BF has wanted to do one since he was, like, 4!) and are hoping the bug will bite deep.

 

So I beg you all (you read like a lovely bunch by the way!) for as much help as poss. Specifically answers and advice to the following if at all possible.

 

As we are on an EXTREMELEY tight budget, does cabin size, shape, balcony make a difference? Where should we splash our cash? Would advising them of the BF's 30th help with the upgrade fairy at all? We know we need at least a D5 to avoid changing cabins at NYC, should we pay more for a balcony or even indeed to go to the Princess Grill? Is that the only discernable difference?

 

Are the tux's for rent all that? BF is 6ft 4 and about 15 stone (abt 180lbs) so I'm worried he won't find anything to fit rental wise.

 

Is the library contemparary enough? I get through about a book per day holidaying and enjoy modern fiction. Are new titles easy to get hold of?

 

Realistically how much time would we have in NYC between cruises? Could we get a cab nearby the port? Is there a subway near? We have spent a week in New York so are quite au-fait with sights and getting around. I just need to know rough times so that I can plan if I have time to visit Kehils on 3rd Ave and stock up! :)

 

Finally, what one thing did you wish you'd known before your first cruise? What's the most important thing I should know? And are any of you on the same trip? :p

[carlmm]

I am in the process of booking for 25th October 2007 Westbound S'ton to NY and also the Caribbean Cruise 10 day thereafter.

What a wonderful voyage you are looking for. Congratulations.

 

As we are on an EXTREMELEY tight budget, does cabin size, shape, balcony make a difference? Where should we splash our cash? Would advising them of the BF's 30th help with the upgrade fairy at all? We know we need at least a D5 to avoid changing cabins at NYC, should we pay more for a balcony or even indeed to go to the Princess Grill? Is that the only discernable difference?

 

Of course this is a question of personal preference. In my opinion the cabin is a good item you can save on. Whether you are in an inside cabin or a premium balcony cabin you will get the same level of service and all the amenities on board. The step to Princess Grill would be the one that actually gets you better food and service. Yet being on an "extremely tight budget" the cheapest inside cabin will perfectly do.

Advising them of the birthday migth help or not. In any case he will be presented with a cake and some celebration.

 

Are the tux's for rent all that? BF is 6ft 4 and about 15 stone (abt 180lbs) so I'm worried he won't find anything to fit rental wise.

There is a tuxedo rental. Yet it is quite expansive. Having at least six or seven formal nights on your combined crossing and cruise it is probably cheaper to buy one. Search for example on the fashion forum for hints about affordable suppliers.

 

Is the library contemparary enough? I get through about a book per day holidaying and enjoy modern fiction. Are new titles easy to get hold of?

Never looked for new fiction but at least it is the biggest library at sea. There is also a book shop.

Anyway, with all the activities on board you might not find the time to read as you do on other holiday trips.

 

Realistically how much time would we have in NYC between cruises? Could we get a cab nearby the port? Is there a subway near? We have spent a week in New York so are quite au-fait with sights and getting around. I just need to know rough times so that I can plan if I have time to visit Kehils on 3rd Ave and stock up! :)

 

From what has been reported here you might have between 9.00 and 16.00.

 

What's the most important thing I should know?

There is no way you can do all what is offered. But when you take part do it rightly. Enjoy your meals, do not rush. Dress up to be part of the elegant atmosphere. If you enjoy socialising, you are right on board: e.g share your table for tea, talk to your fellow guests, etc. And enjoy your experience!

[Namvet4]

Good evening fellow boarders! :) . . .

 

Finally, what one thing did you wish you'd known before your first cruise? What's the most important thing I should know? And are any of you on the same trip? :p

moomoocow - If there was one thing I had known it would be smart enough to ask all my questions here in CC forum! ;) But you already know that is important! :)

The one thing I wish I had known was the "tricks" about the layout of the ship. Our first cruise on the Noordam, a HAL ship, was not as large as the QM2 but even still it took my DW and I some time to figure out the best way around the ship and find the best places to enjoy our time. I wish I had asked before we boarded!( Hoepfully we didn't miss too much)

 

BTW.. the advice about a tux is correct.. I'm 6'6" (I don't know how many stones...I'm a "colonial" - 260 lbs) but I rented my tux ashore to insure a good fit! Hopefully other more fashion savvy travelers can assist with that question!

 

I wish you a wonderful voyage and hopefully a "sparkle" on that finger!!

[Kindlychap]

Hi there,

 

I'm currently on the Queen Mary 2 - I'll post a detailed response once I get home.

 

In the meantime the best advice is to read avidly what is written on this list!

 

Matthew

[flag fan]

I took my first cruise on the QM2 last October and the cruise bug definitely hit--you'll have a great time. In terms of saving money on a cabin, I would not go for a Princess Grill. The Britannia restaurant is beautiful and the food is great. Even if the Grills are better (I wouldn't know since I was in a Britannia cabin), I am sure you will enjoy the Britannia--it is magnificent and I enjoyed sharing dinner each night with the same tablemates. You can also splurge by dining at Todd English one or two nights with the money you save and there are four other "alternative" restaurants--the King's Court buffet area is transformed each night into four other restaurants. I ate at the Italian one and loved it (there's also an Asian restaurant, a steak place, and a restaurant with an open kitchen). There are just barely enough nights to try all the choices. I recommend you not spend extra money on a Grill cabin (at least not until your 2nd or 3rd cruise).

 

I prefer an ocean view or a balcony and it might be worthwhile to pay for an upgrade from an interior room, but, honestly, the weather in the North Atlantic in October is not condusive to spending a lot of time outdoors, whether on a balcony or on deck. I got a balcony and loved it, but if I was really economizing, an oceanview rather than a balcony (or even an interior room) might be a good place to save.

 

The library is big, but I do not recall if there was that much contemporary fiction. To be safe you can take one or two paperbacks. I found that there was so much else to do--lectures, shows, movies, etc.--that I didn't get past 3 or 4 chapters in the book I checked out (and I'm an avid reader). (I also bought books in the book store based on some of the lectures given.)

 

I'm afraid the port is not near mid-town Manhattan. It was about a 30-minute ride from lower Manhattan for me (if I recall correctly).

 

I bought my tux on line and then had it adjusted by a tailor--not the best option, perhaps, but I found a lot of variety on line so it worked out well for me.

 

What I wish I had known before I got on board? Not much because these boards have been so helpful. Look for the thread on things to do; it is great and gives a lot of little inside info (like the glass elevators at the front of the ship). (Another tip: there's a notebook in the library for Cruise Critic members to sign--ask for it from the librarian and sign it, if you remember.)

 

Enjoy the crossing!!

[patwell]

Hello and welcome...and don't worry about being a newbie...we all were at one point!! Every single person on here who posts was new to QM2 once and we have all learned so much from this forum. Don't ever hesitate to ask questions...you'll get plenty of help.

 

What a wonderful sounding trip you have planned...a TA AND a Caribbean...the best of both worlds!! As to cabin selection, stick with Britannia...you will not regret it. The dining room is awesome and elegant...you must plan to arrive one night via the gorgeous staircase...you'll feel like a princess.

 

Many have commented that a sheltered balcony is best for the TA...less wind and more user friendly than the glass ones. Glass is nice in the islands, but believe me, you'll be out and about on the ship so much it won't matter. But if you can swing it, do try to get a blacony of some sort. It's magical to open the door and hear the ocean rushing by...to take your morning coffee out there(room service of course---free). Or if you're lucky like we were, to have the full moon shine in on your balcony alone...OK, maybe others had it too but I felt like it was just for us. That's one upgrade you might really appreciate over an inside cabin and for the little difference it's worth it. The cabins are a bit bigger too which for that amount of time you'll appreciate.

 

I'd bet you'll find something in that vast library...it's something like 8000 books...bound to be something. But as Carl said, there is so much to do, a book is the last thing you'll probably think of. You won't be bored...trust me.

 

I did the Caribbean last year...only 7 days and it was wonderful. This year we will board on the day you get off and look forward to having the 10 days in a beautiful place. If I can answer anything about that trip, just ask.

 

You might try checking for a tuxedo at a formal wear shop. Many times I've heard that they sell the ones that are gently used...and people get good deals on them. I think you'll find it'll be just as cost effective to buy one as to rent....the rental fees are not cheap for that length of time. Get at least 2 shirts...you can get them done inbetween uses by the laundry. I've also heard that there are good buys to be had on ebay. there is also a free laundry area on several decks if you wnat to do your own....free irons to use as well.

 

When I was new to Qm2 I read pages and pages of the threads on here...so much helpful information if you go back a little bit. We seem to talk about many of the same things repeatedly, but always with new information.

 

There is an excellent transatlantic review you might enjoy...it is full of great insights into the ship and a TA. You can find it by clicking on this link...

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=514324

 

My review of my "Affair" with Qm2 is here:

Penny’s Affair to Remember QM2 Review

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=471053

 

I love that ship...do hope you will too. There is a roll call for that voyage on the Cunard roll call page. I'll find it and post it back here for yoou. These are the people you will be sailing to the islands with and it's fun to chat with them before you leave so you'll have new friends to meet onboard.

 

Do hope that little sparkler finds its way to your finger...what a place for romance!!! We loced it and we're a bit older than you...;)

 

Cheers, Penny

Penny’s Affair to Remember QM2 Review

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=471053

[patwell]

Here you go...the roll call for the Caribbean portion of your trip...

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=461309

 

Cheers, Penny

[travel-to-go]

Also, do a quick search for the thread, "What;s not to be missed or somethign like that. (Penny help me out here!)

 

Someone from the CC group got engaged on our Labor day cruise last year. He strewed rose pedals all over the bed. (well, I think the Steward did it for him) Every day was a new and totally romantic surprise. I was ready to leave my sweetie of 17 years (then) and fall for this romantic young man. Ah, but I was twice his age, and not nearly as beautiful as his sweet young girlfriend!

 

I hope you get something similar! (bit I can't imagine there would be two of those in the whole WORLD!)

 

Don't be afraid to ask questions, truly, buying a tux will be cheaper in the long range, and will give you a good reason to book another. If he us prone to mal-de mer (How is he in a car, reading?) take the pills or the shot or whatever before he gets sick. Don't let it ruin the trip, and go get the treatment if need be,

 

I can't add much, except that I have several books which almost have more cruise miles than I do~! I bring them, and take them home unread, or maybe another chapter along1 It isn't that they aren't good books. It's that there is so much unique entertainment and fabulous people around! Don't keep to yourselves, You'll have Later for that! You'll enjoy it much more if you participate and chat with others and such!

Only you can decide what "extras" are worth the money on a tight budget. Don't NOT do something you really want to do that you'll regret later (within reason, of course!)

 

Good luck on ALL!

 

Karie,

who will be doing the Oct 31 Halloween Caribbean cruise

[BeardedGuy]

I bought my tux used from a formal wear shop for about $120 (pants and jacket, cumberbund, ready tied tie, and cheap studs & cufflinks). I then invested in two new dress shirts, a "real" bowtie, and bought some patent leather shoes on line. Grand total was probably less that $225 and that paid for itself vs rental costs by the 3rd time I wore it. Of course now, I figure that every formal night amortizes the cost a bit so I try to take as many cruises as possible to lower the per wearing amount! Have a wonderful trip and may your sparkly wishes come true.

[imacruizer]

Welcome to the Cunard Forum. What a wonderful birthday gift for your boy friend!!! Do let us know when and how you tell him!

 

This is the thread to which Karie is referring. It has so much information.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=104597

 

I would advise you to consider an inside room if you are trying to travel inexpensively. We have had them twice on the QM2 and found them just fine. You really don't spend that much time in your room. Or if you really want to try a balcony, get an inside for the transatlantic and switch to a balcony for the Caribbean. I don't think changing cabins is too much of a hastle but I have never done a back to back so cannot say for sure. On the QM2 most of the rooms (inside and balcony) are the same size until you book the grill cabins, which are larger. If your budget is extremely tight, I would not even consider a grill cabin.

 

Since you have spent a week in New York City, I'm not sure it if would be worth your time and expense to go there on turn around day. However, if you have one specific place to go, it might work out for you. My guess is that it would cost about $100 in taxi fees to get to Manhattan and back. Perhaps some of the locals can tell you how to do it more economically.

 

You have gotten some really good advice about the tuxedo. I think a rental on the ship is $150 or more and you would have to pay for each trip so that would cost $300 for both cruises. Matthew, if you are reading this, check on the price of renting a tuxedo on the ship and what is included.

 

I believe the library has many contemporary books. There are librarians who can help you find something of interest.

 

Again, welcome and let us know if you have additional questions.

 

Beth

[Toffeegirl68]

Your boyfriend will love it and so will you. Hubby was 29 when we went on our trip and it was he who suggested that we go 'both ways' for our second trip.

 

If your budget is tight, then go for an inside - don't go for the Grill. This will only be the first trip of a lifetime. You can save the balcony for your honeymoon and the Grill for your 10th Wedding Anniversay and the World Cruise for your 25th!

 

Enjoying the cocktail of the day will help you live the high life and cut some of the cost...

 

As for building the brownie points - why not propose yourself?!

 

Have fun - you can't fail to!

 

Jo

[Marine_Boy]

I was lucky enough to have been upgraded from a Britania grade cabin to Princess Grill and WOW I thought I'd died and gone to Heaven - it is another world altogether. If you can get a good deal I can assure you you won't be disappointed. The cabins are 50% larger than the Britania grade and the restaurant food and service is in another class altogether. They will cook you anything you want if you give then a days notice. Good luck whichever you decide !

[Betsy's Mom]

Kiehl's is on line (Google them), but I am not sure they ship to the UK. However, since we can finally get Boots over here, I wuld be surprised if they do not. Worth a try!

Enjoy and hope you get the "sparkle":)

B.

[calikak]

DH and I got engaged on our first cruise, so I hope your first cruise goes as well as mine! :) Our first cabin was an outside cabin, and it was just fine for us. We had our first balcony cabin back in 2005 and now we're totally spoiled and don't want to go back, so for a newbie I'd recommend going with a cheaper cabin, so you don't get spoiled too quickly and you can go on more cruises in the future! If you have a smaller cabin, you'll spend less time in the cabin and more time exploring the ship; if you have a balcony cabin, you'll spend more time on your balcony. Both of these are fine options, it just depends what kind of cruiser you are. DH likes to hang out in the cabin; I like to explore the ship.

 

It's really easy to get overwhelmed with all the activities onboard, so just pick a couple that look really interesting to you and enjoy them. And don't be afraid to talk to strangers--your fellow passengers are probably really interesting people. DH and I are about your age (we turned 30 last year) and we were a little apprehensive about cruising because we thought everyone would be so much older and would have nothing on common with us. But in reality everyone we met was really interesting and we had great conversations with almost all of them (everyone bumps into a grump once in a while but they're few and far between).

 

I hope you two have a fantastic first cruise! Be careful because it's really addictive--DH and I are now planning our first cruise with our new son who was born last week (3 months early, the little stinker) for November 2008. :)

[imacruizer]

DH and I are now planning our first cruise with our new son who was born last week (3 months early, the little stinker) for November 2008. :)

 

Beth!!! You had your baby!!!! How is he? Hope both he and you are doing great! What is his name? When he is older you will have to tell him that he was booked on a cruise before he was born. How cool is that!

 

Beth

[moomoocow]

Thanks so so much for all your help and links :) - reading the transatlantic review and Penny's affair was so illuminating, interesting and rewarding that I have printed them off at work for reference! I am also looking for tux's for BF on Ebay etc (using the ready made excuse that we have our annuall summer ball in a month so he will need it for that!)

 

I have instructed all friends and family to provide BF with dollars as a birthday present and to try and keep it as hush hush as poss. However I do have to clear 3 weeks holiday with his manager and it will be for all to see in the "holiday chart" where he works - let's hope he doesn't pay attention in the canteen! I plan on telling him before my birthday in August though so he can bypass buying me something exquisite to save up for the holiday.:o

 

Betsy's Mom - we can get Kiehl's in the UK (of sorts) but it is pounds v's dollars so twice as expensive! Last year in NYC I splurged $150.00 on "essentials" in the store - much to BF's chargin! Men do not understand a woman's relationship with cosmetics, handbags and shoes..........!:p

 

Just one more question if I may? When we arrive at NY I assume we have to disembark in the same manner as everyone else and proceed through immigration if we want to visit Manhattan? As we will have no luggage is a walk to the nearest subway station "doable" and if so how long? As per prior posts I have factored in time in Manhattan to between 9am and 5pm latest (aiming to be back on QM2 for 5pm)

 

Thanks again to all! No doubt I will post more and use even more exclamation marks the nearer the voyage gets! :)

[calikak]

Beth!!! You had your baby!!!! How is he? Hope both he and you are doing great! What is his name? When he is older you will have to tell him that he was booked on a cruise before he was born. How cool is that!

 

Beth

 

 

Hi, other Beth! Yes, I wasn't due until August 27, so he came very early. I'm doing fine, but since he's so premature he's in the hospital and probably will be for quite some time (probably until his due date)...but he's doing really well for a baby born this early, and getting a little stronger every day, and we expect him to really enjoy his first cruise next year! :) And actually, he's sort-of already been on his first cruise--we cruised during the first trimester! :D

[travel-to-go]

Hi, other Beth! Yes, I wasn't due until August 27, so he came very early. I'm doing fine, but since he's so premature he's in the hospital and probably will be for quite some time (probably until his due date)...but he's doing really well for a baby born this early, and getting a little stronger every day, and we expect him to really enjoy his first cruise next year! :) And actually, he's sort-of already been on his first cruise--we cruised during the first trimester! :D

 

Dear Beth,

That is so scary. I hope he is doing fine. I know how awful it must be fore you to not be with him every minute (but then no pressure on your bladder all summer. Darn it!)

My thoughts are with you both (all three) as he grows and becomes more robust and eventually gets to go home with you!

 

Karie,

who understands how happy you must be, and how frightened also. Keep thiking good thoughts!

 

Oh, eayh! And CONGRATULATIONS!

[patwell]

Hi, other Beth! Yes, I wasn't due until August 27, so he came very early. I'm doing fine, but since he's so premature he's in the hospital and probably will be for quite some time (probably until his due date)...but he's doing really well for a baby born this early, and getting a little stronger every day, and we expect him to really enjoy his first cruise next year! :) And actually, he's sort-of already been on his first cruise--we cruised during the first trimester! :D

 

I'll echo Karie here and wish your little one robust health and rapid growth so he can get home with his doting parents where he belongs. I'm sure all of us here will hold him in our thoughts. I send you my best wishes and congratulations. Afterall, even if it was just the first trimester, he's a QM2er just like the rest of us...;)

 

Cheers, Penny

Penny’s Affair to Remember QM2 Review

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=471053

[patwell]

 

Men do not understand a woman's relationship with cosmetics, handbags and shoes..........!:p

 

Now that's an understatement!! especially the part about shoes! :rolleyes:

 

I'm glad our reviews were helpful to you and flattered you'd want to print them off. I loved Pepper's so much I took it with me last fall!!

 

Cheers, Penny

Penny’s Affair to Remember QM2 Review

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=471053

[imacruizer]

Hi, other Beth! Yes, I wasn't due until August 27, so he came very early. I'm doing fine, but since he's so premature he's in the hospital and probably will be for quite some time (probably until his due date)...but he's doing really well for a baby born this early, and getting a little stronger every day, and we expect him to really enjoy his first cruise next year! :) And actually, he's sort-of already been on his first cruise--we cruised during the first trimester! :D

 

Thanks for the update, Beth. Glad he is doing so well even though he decided to make his appearance a little too early. Do keep us posted on his progress. Congratulations to all of you. We have a real Cruise Critic baby!!!

 

Beth -- the other one!

[calikak]

Thanks, Karie and Beth and Penny! You all are so nice here on the Cunard board! :) Yes, it's scary, but we have complete faith in the staff at the hospital (it's the best in the region) and he's really doing just as well as we could possibly hope at this point. Today he was being really cute--the nurse tried to get him to tuck his feet in under a cover, but he kept sticking one out and wiggling his toes. :D He definitely has a mind of his own already, as we found out when he decided it was already time to come out! I like to think he was trying to be nice to me, because him being so small made it a really easy delivery and I'm having a really quick recovery. :)

[Piltonian]

Moomoocow,

 

A good source of dinner jackets in the UK is second hand shops specialising in period clothing. This is the traditional student route to acquiring formal wear and has the advantages of:

a) being cheap;

b) the clothes tend to be very good quality;

c) you look authentically aristocratic in your ancient threads that could have been past down from grandpapa.

Your other half's height could be a challenge, but I'm 6"3 and picked up both tails and a morning coat this way, and a mate of mine whose the same height got several dinner suits via this route (he kept on needing new ones when we were students having set fire to the jacket of one and [ahem] mislaid the trousers to another after a ball...)

 

My girlfriend's 29th was this week and I've been wondering about getting round to booking a transatlantic - like you, never done this before - so might see you on board if I take the plunge. Maybe not if people are talking about rings on fingers though!

 

Stuart

[moomoocow]

Stunning news!

 

I took BF to a shop specialising in suits and suit hire today - actually I tricked him by first picking up my mum and then casually "happening" upon said shop. You have to do this to get a man to shop. The place had been recommended to me by the receptionist at work as it is closing down and selling formal suits for bargain prices.

 

After slight resistance (an understatement) he was taken forcibly by the store manageress and made to try suits on. Eventually a lovely understated wool tuxedo found its way onto him and fitted perfectly and he pronounced it sufficiently "James Bond like" to purchase (all men are instinctively child like aren't they?!). We picked it up for the bargain price of £99, as the majority of suits left are that price and as mentioned before the BF is a strapping 6ft 4inches.

 

As I got him a dress shirt and bow tie (sadly not a Monopoly one!) we have just had a mini fashion show and bow tie tying lesson (for lesson read small frustrating spat between loved ones!). I was checking the care label in the suit and was shocked and astounded to read the word "GUCCI". After my small seizure I checked out the suit label which had "Masterhand" sewn on. I now know this to be a suit hire company. So effectively I have bought a brand new (or nearly new) Gucci tuxedo for £99! I am so so jealous. I don't have any Gucci clothing, merely bags and shoes.

 

So at least that's his formal wear sorted. And he thinks he's only wearing it to a ball and a few weddings! :p

[imacruizer]

Thanks, Karie and Beth and Penny! You all are so nice here on the Cunard board! :) Yes, it's scary, but we have complete faith in the staff at the hospital (it's the best in the region) and he's really doing just as well as we could possibly hope at this point. Today he was being really cute--the nurse tried to get him to tuck his feet in under a cover, but he kept sticking one out and wiggling his toes. :D He definitely has a mind of his own already, as we found out when he decided it was already time to come out! I like to think he was trying to be nice to me, because him being so small made it a really easy delivery and I'm having a really quick recovery. :)

 

Beth,

 

How much did the baby weigh? How wonderful that he is doing so well. Glad to know that you had an easy delivery, too. Although I know you would have preferred to wait a few months. Do you mind sharing the baby's name? Do keep us up to date on his progress.

 

Beth