While my wife and I have quite limited experience with cruising/crossings, we have made transatlantic flights dozens of times and have come to dread the security hassles, tiny seats, poor service and the suspect food that are the present day realities of international air travel. We were able to book (through the Cunard website) a premium balcony (deck 12) for the April 2012 crossing to New York at a price not much greater than airfare. A month before departure we were given a complementary upgrade to Britannia Club.

We took the express train from London to Southampton, an under two hour trip, and easily caught a taxi for the five minute ride from the train station to the port. Embarkation was easy and the entire boarding process was a welcome change from recent airport experience. Cunard staff were personable and efficient and we were able to get to our stateroom with a minimum of aggravation. Chilled sparkling wine was waiting for us in the room - which we used to toast the smooth on-time departure.

The food and service in the Britannia Club section was first rate. Portions were small, but they will bring second helpings - or even a different entree - if you ask. In spite of working out an hour a day on the elliptical machine, I gained about five pounds on the seven day crossing. I thank Cunard for the free upgrade, and having tried the Britannia Club, I can vouch that the upgrade is worth the extra cost and I will pay it when making a future booking. We ate twenty meals on china plates on the QM2, compared to one meal served on a plastic tray with United! A most welcome experience. Read more