This was our first last-minute cruise, booking ~30d before departure so many of the excursions were already waitlisted and our preferred dining option was initially not available. The ship's company was able to help us get things that worked well for us and made the week enjoyable. We were fortunate with GREAT weather. Our only rain/wind was passing through tropical storm remnants on one of our at-sea days. The ship handled force 9 winds/rough seas very well. Though you could see the waves and feel the winds, the ship rocked lightly. We are already talking about doing this itinerary again someday.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Flawless. Arrived via a pre-booked transfer through Cunard and went through embarkation with no wait.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Great food and service in the main dining room. Buffet area was a bit chaotic at times but had excellent food with a nice variety.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Attended lectures, fitness center, the spa, and checked out a book from the large library.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Broadway-level singers/dancers/orchestras, including their combined big band.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Room steward kept the room tidy with twice daily service. Slightly slower but friendly waiter service in the open dining section of the main dining room. Changed back to seated dining and had a great wait staff.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Ship was large but once you figured it out, you can get around to places easily. Common areas were clean and maintained well. Some areas needed minor work but the ship was headed into dry dock after our cruise.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Though a small sized desk, the room was clean and comfortable. I actually slept better in that bed than my own.
Ship tip
Though not the size of a new mega ship, it is a large ocean liner. Find where the ship layouts are posted on the walls and carry your pocket map (provided in your room) until you figure it out.There is a lot of things to do and places to chill out as well. It is not a party ship but there is tons of opportunities to dance, chill with nice music and family/friends, or chill out.
Definitely going back to Quebec City! Neat historical town, very clean and safe, with lots of cafes, restaurants, shops, pubs, and places to walk and explore.
Friendly, clean town though got swamped with multiple ships in port that day creating longer waits at restaurants and large crowds in the smaller streets. Took an Excursion to the Alexander Bell Museum. Great place to visit.
Lots to do in Boston: History, great food, friendly people, very clean. Cruise ship terminal was ~40 min walk from the market area but hop-on, hop-off trolleys and a free shuttle to downtown provided convenience if you weren't on scheduled excursions.
The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is not conveniently located near the main attractions in Manhattan so you're relying on a taxi or shuttle service. It is across from Manhattan and provided great views of Manhattan, the statue of liberty and Roosevelt Island. Lots of history and activities to do here but busier and dirtier than other large cities.
Walked off at our published disembarkation time and immediately got our bags, cleared customs, and went to the transfer bus. There is a realtively long walk from where you claim your bags until you get onto your ground transportation. There are no airport-style luggage carts but there are port attendants who will roll your luggage out for you.
My first on Cunard waswas a last minute (Sailing Soon) cruise on the Queen Elizabeth to Alaska; everything worked out very well and I got a nice stateroom; and the hotel and embarkation was smooth, and very organized. I will attempt to book the Qn. Mary 2 next year sometime.
Sounds great. We’ve never been able to do a last minute cruise, and whenever I look at them, the types of cabins, and location we like aren’t usually available…..makes me hesitate
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