Going on a cruise (queen mary 2) transatlantic any tips for my first cruise!?

Question

Hi i just booked my tickets for a transatlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2. Its the first time i have traveled via sealiner just wanted to know if anyone has any tips in general or for the QM2?? i understand that some on board costs can get very high any hidden costs i should know about (apart from the regular expensive drinks)??? any personal infomation would be great!

THANKS!

Answer 1

Hello,

I agree with all the answers above, since I have done the Transatlantic on QM2 last year.  The first very important information that you need is to know which dining room you belong to, as the type of cabin you are staying in determines that.  Second, since this ship is unbelievably big and long, remember to take walking shoes with you.  I remember that from our cabin to the anywhere else, the walk was at least a quarter of a mile (yeah, talk about a long walk).  Remember, at the end of the cruise, gratuities will be charged to your folio (approximately $10/person/day).  Drinks ordered will be charged 15% gratuity additional to the menu price.  

From my personal experience, I love the Fish and Chips served at the Golden Lion Pub.  Nice atmosphere as well.  Definitely go the shows in the Illuminations, the planetarium.  

Remember to take a picture of the Statue of Liberty when you cross under the Brooklyn Bridge!

Answer 2

Just relax and have a fantastic time.

I don't think that there are too many hidden costs and in my experience the drinks (surprisingly) are not as over priced as you might think.

But definitely don't get seasick - it will ruin your holiday.  Best thing to take for seasickness - in my opinion is Stugeron.  Take it 2 hrs before you sail.

Have a great time!

Answer 3

Wow nice cruise for the start of your cruising career lol Never been on the QM2 seenit while in port once HUGE ship very nice...though I hear the crew is a bit snobbish. Drinks can get pretty expensive while onthe ship i suggest you bring your own wine on board if Cunards policy allows it (most of the lines do)  have fun!

Answer 4

Make sure you visit the Chat boards at cruisecritic.com   Your questions will definitely be answered, and you can read reviews from others who have enjoyed this ship.  

The drinks are no more expensive than at a bar or restaurant, except that you won't get your tab until the end of the week.  It only seems expensive when you get a five page bill at the end of the cruise for all of those bottles of wine at dinner and cocktails at the shows!    There are fewer hidden costs than you would think.  The ship will offer to sell you a lot of things but nobody forces anyone to buy a $25 Bingo card, overpriced logo clothing or other stuff at the gift store, or a $800 piece of art at an art auction.  You don't need to gamble in the casino, use the laundry service, or to drink specialty coffees at the coffee bar...Don't forget the tips, which may be automatically charged to your cabin unless you elect to pay cash.  If you use room service, it's expected you'll tip at least $2 per person ordering even though the food itself is free.  I've heard the shows and library on the QM2 are great.  Have a wonderful time!

Answer 5

Don't get seasick!

Answer 6

If you go to the pursers desk right when you get them have them remove the gratuities that they automatically charge and tell them you prefer to pay them on your own.

Drinks are about 6.50 each- no killer. But gambling will be a killer.

Get those grey seasick pressure bracelets. I use them. They are great and go to Trader Joes and get some crystalized ginger to suck on if you feel queasy.

Always wash you hands.

Have fun!  I leave this week on a cruise.