This was our second voyage with Cunard, the first ten years ago on the QE2 transAtlantic. Spouse and I have done 15 cruises with various lines in the past. Cunard offered a good deal and we took it to travel from Fort Lauderdale to Valparaiso, Chile on the Queen Mary 2. We were especially intrigued because QM2 is an ocean liner, the direct successor to the QE2.

Embarkation was no problem whatever. The lines were short, of course only a partial load of passengers was boarding as this was a World Cruise in progress. I understand about 1000 passengers joined here. Once on board we were properly greeted by staff, and found our cabin ready. Luggage arrived quickly, and we were soon settled in our home for the next month. We departed early evening after a delay attributed to a US Customs error which delayed releasing people for tours, etc.

This cruise had many more sea days then port stops. Sea days are where Cunard excels. Its ships do not have lots of diversions, like rock walls or skating rinks. Instead, there are always well planned activities and their legion of speakers to fill the day regardless of the weather. Speakers included Sir Tony Robinson, a British television star; Peter Snow, TV personality; David Malinder with an excellent “American Songbook” series; James Fraser, photojournalist; Ken Vard on passenger liners, and several others. All were excellent. Read more