We recently chose Cunard for a family trip to the Mediterranean because we had heard such wonderful things about their line--its elegance, tradition, and prestige. I have never been so incredibly disappointed in a company.

For background: I am in my early thirties, American, was traveling with my extended family, and have cruised with everyone from Carnival to Crystal. This cruise was like paying Crystal prices for a Carnival experience. I know Crystal is more expensive upfront, but by the time Cunard is finished nickel-and-diming you, it is honestly about the same price.

The worst thing overall was just the complete lack of customer service. It felt like WORK being a passenger on Cunard. There was never anyone around to help with anything or to even take a drink order. The Purser's Desk acted like you were at best inconveniencing them and at worst a total idiot. At one point, our travel agent had paid for an hour-long cocktail party for our group. We had the PDF confirmation FROM CUNARD. When we showed up, the entertainment manager told us that she had no record of it and couldn't help us. Our travel agent (who was absolutely mortified) had to contact the company in Southampton to get it worked out and rescheduled--even then, they scheduled it during our dinner seating on our last formal night. We got, at best, a shrug from the staff. Read more