Having spent a couple of past transatlantic voyages on the QM2, the first in 2005, this was a 21 day trip and a 5 day NY catch up for my 50th Birthday treat in the QM2's 11th year commencing 21st July. I was pleasantly surprised as this ship seems to have aged well, no doubt with much hard work from Cunard. Both cabins were 6th Deck, 6144 out and 6167 back, and lovely condition much as I remembered when this ship was only a year old, love all that cheerful light yellow wood and comfortable bed. As Gold world club members the welcome bottle of Cava on ice was a nice touch for both journeys. Our lovely friendly cabin steward Argie and Dong were attentive and helpful.

I am very pleased to report that nothing much has changed on the QM2 over the years which is what we had hoped. The Britannia Restaurant still has that incredible ambiance, discreet lighting, and understated elegance. The food in the Britannia was as good as I remember, lovely choices with some great wine, port and armagnac. We had a lovely table and Kelvin the Matre'D was both knowledgeable and efficient, a real credit to Cunard. Jane and Rodney our table servers were really lovely, and I have to say we were really impressed with the cheerfulness of all staff on board, especially the morning breakfast servers in Britannia, of which we met many. We had fun following the daily itinerary, much was on offer and we particularly loved the quiz. The shows were good too and Mike Doyle the comedian singer sang a truly outstanding Nessun Dorma.

Other highlights included an enthralling RADA performance of Pride and Prejudice, and 3D Cinema productions of Carmen and Madam Butterfly as well as the much loved Planaterium performances taking you on a trip into outer space, the planets and stars. On the return journey we tried out the menu of Todd English extensively, and pleased to report a select menu worthy of the extra cost to dine there and service to match. During the evenings my wife got to try out her new dresses as thankfully the dress code is still observed on formal or informal nights. Even in it's 11th year its hard to fault the QM2 which is the Cunard flag ship, once on board this mighty ship treats you to a very special experience.