If you’re considering a Cunard cruise on Queen Elizabeth, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through everything from what makes the ship stand out, destinations, and cruise deals to tips for choosing the right cabin. You’ll also get the right information on what’s included, what’s not,  dining, entertainment, activities and more onboard.

Why Queen Elizabeth?

Queen Elizabeth is part of the iconic Cunard fleet, and she’s all about mixing classic elegance with modern touches. You can expect that timeless British charm, with art deco designs, polished wood panelling, and luxurious finishes throughout. But it’s not all about looks – her service level is renowned, and many of the crew have been with Cunard for years, so they know how to make you feel like royalty.

One thing that makes this ship special is the formal atmosphere—you’ve got themed balls, afternoon tea in the Queens Room, and traditional gala evenings. The ship’s connection to maritime history is also really cool, with nods to the original Queen Elizabeth liner. Plus, Cunard’s White Star Service really sets the bar high for luxury cruising.

Top deck on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship leaving Vancouver

Quick Ship Facts

 
CategoryDetails
Ship NameQueen Elizabeth
OperatorCunard Line
Ship ClassVista-class
Year Built2010
Gross Tonnage90,900 GT
Length294 meters (964 feet)
Passenger Capacity2,081 passengers
Crew1,005 crew members
Cruising Speed23.7 knots
Number of Decks12 passenger decks
Home PortsSouthampton, Vancouver, Melbourne
DestinationsEurope, Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand
FacilitiesPools, Spa, Fitness Center, Theatres, Restaurants, Bars, Casinos, Ballroom
Notable FeaturesRoyal Court Theatre, Queens Room Ballroom, Garden Lounge, 24-hour dining
Dining OptionsFormal dining, buffets, specialty restaurants (e.g., The Verandah)
Rating

★★★★☆ 4.5/5 based on passenger reviews

★★★★★ 5/6 as compared to other cruise ships

 

dining room with sea views on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

What's Included in the Fare

  • Accommodation in your chosen cabin
  • All main meals in the allocated restaurants (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • 24-hour room service
  • Afternoon tea in the Queens Room
  • Access to the Lido Buffet and Golden Lion pub (for casual dining)
  • Entertainment, including theatre shows, live music, and performances
  • Themed gala nights
  • Fitness centre and some fitness classes
  • Games deck (croquet, lawn bowls, pickle ball)
  • Use of pools and hot tubs
  • Enrichment programs (lectures, workshops)
  • Dance classes and social dancing events
  • Daily quizzes and organised group activities
  • Access to the library
Drinks on the bar on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

What's Not Included in the Fare

  • Specialty dining (e.g., The Verandah) – Costs: Around $65 per person
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and premium coffees – Costs vary; drink packages start around £45 per day
  • Shore excursions and tours – Prices vary depending on location and activity
  • Spa treatments at the Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa – Massages start around £80
  • Wi-Fi packages – Starts at around $18 per day
  • Laundry and dry cleaning services – Self-service laundry: free; full laundry service is charged per item
  • Gratuities (unless pre-paid) – £11.50–£13.50 per person, per day
  • Private box seating in the Royal Court Theatre – Around £50 per couple
  • Photos taken by onboard photographers – Prices start from $10 per photo.
Couple dancing in the ballroom on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Elegant, traditional cruise experienceNot as casual as some other cruise lines
Excellent White Star ServiceFormal dress codes on gala nights
Wide variety of dining optionsSpecialty restaurants come with extra fees
Great onboard entertainment, including theatreWi-Fi and drink packages can be pricey
Spacious staterooms with classic décorLimited options for families with young kids
Beautiful public spaces with art deco designCan feel more formal and traditional
Queen Elizabeth cruise ship docked in Skagway Alaska

Cruise Destinations

Queen Elizabeth offers an impressive range of destinations, departing mainly from Southampton. Here’s a look at some popular itineraries from the UK:

  • Norwegian Fjords: Sail through stunning fjords, with stops in ports like Bergen and Alesund, offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes and rich Viking history.
  • Mediterranean Cruise: To iconic cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Monte Carlo, with plenty of time to explore cultural and historic sites.
  • Canary Islands: Escape to warmer climates with stops in Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria, known for their beaches and volcanic landscapes.
  • Baltic Sea: Visit culturally rich cities like St. Petersburg, Helsinki, and Stockholm, offering art, history, and unique architecture.
  • Transatlantic Crossings: Travel between Southampton and New York, experiencing the grandeur of a classic ocean voyage.
  • Western Europe: Shorter trips to cities like Bruges, Amsterdam, and Hamburg are perfect for a quick getaway.

In addition, Queen Elizabeth has several other exciting destinations:

  1. Alaska: Sail past glaciers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Ports often include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, where you can experience Alaska’s natural beauty up close.

  2. Asia: Cruises cover vibrant cities such as Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, with excursions to temples, bustling markets, and historic landmarks.

  3. Australia & New Zealand: Explore the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Auckland, and Fiordland with scenic cruising along Australia and New Zealand’s stunning coastlines.

  4. Baltic Sea: Visit historical capitals like St. Petersburg, Tallinn, and Stockholm while exploring the rich history and culture of Northern Europe​.

  5. World Voyages: For the ultimate journey, Queen Elizabeth offers full world cruises, taking you to a mix of continents and cities, from South America to Africa, and beyond​.

Cruise deals on Queen Elizabeth

Cruise Deals

Looking for a great deal on a Queen Elizabeth cruise? Now’s the perfect time to grab a Cunard Fare and get some awesome extras. You can get up to £620 (around $770 USD) FREE to spend on-board, whether you want to treat yourself to a special dinner, unwind at the spa, or catch some of the top-notch entertainment. Plus, you get to choose from free car parking, coach transfers, or even more on-board spending credit. It’s a win-win!

Renovated cabin on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

History and Cost to Build

Queen Elizabeth was launched in 2010, becoming the third ship to bear the name in Cunard’s prestigious history. She was built by Fincantieri, an Italian shipbuilding company, and her construction cost was around £365 million. The ship was designed to reflect the golden age of ocean travel, with art deco touches reminiscent of her predecessors, blending classic design with modern luxuries.

In 2018, she underwent a significant refurbishment, updating the cabins, public spaces, and some of the onboard facilities to keep her looking fresh and up to date.

Couple enjoying a drink at the bar on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Best Suited For?

Queen Elizabeth is perfect for travellers who appreciate a refined, traditional cruising experience. The formal atmosphere, gala nights, and afternoon teas appeal to those who enjoy dressing up and a more elegant vibe.

  • Adults: Ideal for couples and solo travellers who prefer a quieter, more sophisticated atmosphere.
  • Families: While there are kids’ programs, it’s more suited to older kids or families looking for a low-key experience.
  • LGBTQ+ travellers: The friendly and inclusive environment makes it a welcoming choice.
  • Solo travellers: Queen Elizabeth has solo staterooms and activities that encourage socialising.
  • Anyone looking for luxury and tradition: With its White Star Service and rich maritime history, it’s a great fit for those who want that classic cruise experience.
Couple dressed in formal dress code on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Dress Code

Cunard is known for its more formal dress code, and Queen Elizabeth is no exception. During the day, the dress code is fairly casual, with shorts, t-shirts, and swimwear being perfectly fine in most areas. However, things get a bit more glamorous in the evening.

  • Gala Evenings: Expect to dress up for these. Men are encouraged to wear a tuxedo or dark suit, while women typically go for evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
  • Smart Attire Evenings: These are slightly less formal, but men should still wear a jacket (ties are optional) and women can opt for dresses, skirts, or elegant trousers.
  • Casual Evenings: Rare on Cunard, but in some areas, smart casual wear is acceptable.
  • There are also specific areas onboard, like the Lido, where casual attire is welcome at all times.
Sign saying automatic tipping added to bill on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Gratuities and Tipping

On Queen Elizabeth, gratuities (or service charges) are automatically added to your onboard account. The current rates are:

  • Britannia Staterooms: $16 USD per person, per day (around £12.50)
  • Princess and Queens Grill Suites: $18 USD per person, per day (around £14)
  • Corkage: $25 US per bottle outside your room


Additionally, there’s a 15% service charge on drinks and spa services.

If you’d rather handle tipping yourself, you can request to have these automatic charges removed by visiting the Purser’s Desk at any time on your cruise. Many guests still choose to tip crew members individually, but it’s completely optional.

Lady on a running machine in the gym on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Things to Do at Sea

Onboard Queen Elizabeth, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your sea days, whether you’re in the mood to relax or stay active:

  • Spa and Wellness: The Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa offers a range of ocean-inspired treatments (extra charge), from seaweed wraps to facials. There’s also a thermal suite and hydrotherapy pool for a bit of extra pampering.
  • Fitness Centre: Access to the gym is included in your fare, with cardio machines, weights, and resistance equipment. However, fitness classes like Pilates, yoga, and spinning come with an additional charge.
  • Games Deck: Get competitive with classic games like croquet, lawn bowls, and paddle tennis (pickle ball) up on Deck 11.
  • Library: Relax with a good book in one of the largest libraries at sea, featuring over 6,000 volumes.
  • Organised Activities: Join in on dance classes, quizzes, and group games held daily, offering plenty of ways to socialise and stay entertained without any extra cost.
Smoking policy on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Smoking Policies

On Queen Elizabeth, smoking is only allowed in designated areas. These include specific outdoor sections on the starboard side of Decks 3 and 10. Smoking inside the ship is limited to Churchill’s Cigar Lounge (for cigars only).

Be aware that smoking is not permitted in staterooms or on balconies, and this includes e-cigarettes and vapes

man with a guide dog on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Pets Onboard

As for pets, Cunard is one of the few cruise lines that allows dogs and cats onboard, but only on transatlantic crossings between New York and Southampton.

The pets stay in kennels during the journey, and there’s even a special area for them to exercise, complete with lampposts from New York and Liverpool to make them feel at home​.

Service dogs are welcome onboard Queen Elizabeth, in line with Cunard’s policy of accommodating registered assistance animals. These animals must meet specific guidelines, including proper documentation, vaccination records, and compliance with any destination country’s regulations. Service dogs are allowed in public areas with their owners and are not restricted to the kennel area, unlike other pets.

The process for bringing a service dog onboard involves notifying Cunard well in advance to ensure that all the necessary arrangements are in place.

Casino on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Entertainment

Queen Elizabeth offers plenty of entertainment options for all tastes:

  • Royal Court Theatre: Enjoy West End-style performances, musicals, and live orchestra shows in this grand theatre. There are 2 shows every evening at 8pm and 10pm. For an upgraded experience, you can book a private box​.
  • Casino: Try your luck at table games like blackjack and roulette, or play the slot machines in the onboard casino, open during evenings at sea.
  • Queens Room: This grand ballroom hosts themed gala nights, with a live orchestra for ballroom & Latin dancing every night on the cruise. The music is very old-style ballroom and Latin unfortunately. However, it’s a massive dance floor, one of the biggest at sea. On occasion, they might have a rock and roll night or other theme.
  • Yacht Club: A lively spot to hit the dance floor with DJ-led music. The floor is a good size too. The Yacht Club is perfect for those who enjoy karaoke and/or a silent disco.
  • Golden Lion Pub: For a more casual evening, the pub offers trivia nights and live music. 
  • Live Music: The Commodore Club and other lounges feature live piano performances and jazz, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
Couple having lunch in the Britania Restaurant on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Dining Options

Here’s a breakdown of the restaurants and dining venues on Queen Elizabeth, including what’s included in your fare and where reservations are needed:

Restaurant NameType of FoodIncluded in FareExtra Cost (USD)Reservations Required
Britannia RestaurantInternational fine diningYesNoNo
Britannia ClubExclusive fine dining for Britannia Club guestsYesNoNo
Princess GrillElevated dining for Princess Grill Suites guestsYesNoNo
Queens GrillGourmet dining for Queens Grill Suites guestsYesNoNo
Lido BuffetCasual buffet, international cuisineYesNoNo
Golden Lion PubBritish pub fare. Lunch & DinnerYesNoNo
The Verandah SteakhousePremium steak and seafoodNoLunch $35 pp. Dinner $65 ppYes
Room Service24-hour in-room diningYesNoNo
Lido GrillGrilled items like burgers and hot dogs by the poolYesNoNo
Café CarinthiaSpecialty coffees, teas, and light bitesDrinks cost extra. Light bites are included.Prices vary ($4-12)No
Queens Room Afternoon TeaTraditional afternoon teaYesNoNo
Champagne Afternoon TeaChampagne with extra special goodiesNo$40 ppYes

 

Dining Reservations and Tips

For specialty dining, like The Verandah, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on formal nights when many guests opt for more intimate dining. You can make reservations via the onboard app, at the restaurant itself, or through guest services.

Dining Tips: The main restaurants (Britannia, Britannia Club, Princess Grill, Queens Grill) work on a set seating schedule, but if you prefer flexibility, the buffet or room service might be a better fit. Specialty dining venues tend to fill up quickly, especially on sea days, so book early if you want a specific time.

Drinks package on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Drink Packages & Costs

Cunard offers a variety of drink packages onboard Queen Elizabeth to suit different preferences. Additionally, Cunard allows you to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard. If consumed outside your cabin, there’s a $25 corkage fee.

Here’s a breakdown of the main packages and costs:

  • Soft Drinks Package: Unlimited draught sodas, selected fruit juices, squash, and cordials for $10 per person, per day (or $12 if purchased onboard.
  • Premium Soft Drinks Package: Includes a range of soft drinks, small bottled waters, juices, specialty hot drinks, and non-alcoholic cocktails. This package is $30 per person, per day (or $35 onboard).
  • Specialty Hot Drinks Package: Unlimited illy coffees, Tea Forté infusions, and hot chocolates for $12.50 per person, per day (or $15 onboard).
  • Beers, Wines, and Spirits Package: Covers most alcoholic beverages up to $13.50 per serving and includes a 20% discount on drinks above that price. The cost is $70 per person, per day​, but can be more depending on the length of your cruise. Note: the wines do not include high end choices.
Balcony room on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Cabin Choices

Cabin TypeNumber of CabinsRoom Size (sq. ft.)Balcony Size (sq. ft.)Key Amenities
Britannia Inside124150N/AStandard amenities, flat-screen TV, bathrobe, slippers
Britannia Deluxe Inside38200–245N/ALarger layout, seating area, standard amenities
Britannia Oceanview146180–200N/APicture window, seating area, standard amenities
Britannia Balcony572190–42070Private balcony, seating area, minibar
Britannia Club Balcony39190–22080Private balcony, access to Britannia Club restaurant
Princess Grill Suite61290–42090Concierge service, exclusive restaurant access, welcome wine
Queens Grill Suite35485–770150–350Butler service, larger balcony, whirlpool bathtub
Penthouse Suite25500–680115–150Butler service, priority perks, and access to exclusive areas
Master Suite2870220Separate dining area, butler service, wraparound balcony
Single Staterooms9133–180N/ASolo traveler pricing, available in both inside and oceanview

Best Locations Based on Preferences:

  • Quiet Cabins: Opt for midship or lower decks to avoid engine noise and areas near entertainment venues.
  • Best Views: Go for cabins on higher decks or near the front (bow) of the ship.
  • Upgrades: Book early or look for deals closer to sailing to increase your chances of an upgrade.
  • Key Perks: Suites enjoy exclusive dining in the Grill restaurants and access to special lounges and terraces.
  • All cabins include Penhaligon toiletries, nightly turndown service, and 24-hour room service​.
Power and plug sockets in cabin on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Power & Plugs

On Queen Elizabeth, cabins are equipped with a mix of 110V (North American-style) and 220V (UK-style) power outlets. These outlets are usually located near the desk area. Depending on the cabin, some rooms may have additional outlets around the bed or TV. You will likely need to bring an adapter if your devices use other plug types. You can’t bring a power board on the shop.

  • 2 US-style outlets (110V)
  • 1 UK-style outlet (220V)
  • 1 European outlet (220V)
  • 1 x 2 pin US outlet in the bathroom
  • No USB
Internet package sign in cabin on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Internet & Wi-Fi

Cunard recently upgraded its internet service on Queen Elizabeth by rolling out Starlink, providing better Wi-Fi coverage across the ship, however, it’s still expensive. Here’s the updated pricing for Wi-Fi packages as of 2024:

  • Essential Voyage Plan: This package covers basic web browsing, emails, music streaming, and social media (images and text) at $18 per day when purchased for the entire voyage or $24 per 24 hours.

  • Premium Voyage Plan: Offers faster speeds (suitable for video streaming) and is priced at $24 per day if bought for the whole trip, or $36 per 24 hours.

  • For those cruising over 16 days, discounts are available, and loyalty members in the Cunard World Club can receive complimentary internet credit based on their tier.

  • Read our article on tips for saving money with the internet on your cruise.

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Looking down on the pool and hot tubs on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Swimming Pools

The Pavilion and Lido pools are heated, making them comfortable for swimming even on cooler days at sea. For relaxation, the hot tubs are conveniently located near the pools.

FeatureDetailsWater Temperature
Pavilion PoolLocated midship on Deck 9; surrounded by sun loungers and has 2 adjacent Jacuzzis.Heated to around 27°C (80°F)​.
Lido PoolLocated aft on Deck 9; offers panoramic views with more loungers and 2 Jacuzzis nearby​.Heated to around 27°C (80°F)​.
Hydrotherapy PoolPart of the Mareel Wellness & Beauty Spa; available with a day pass or spa treatment.Approximately 32°C (90°F).
Hot Tubs4 outdoor Jacuzzis, 2 by each main pool.Approximately 38°C (100°F)
Water Slides/Water ParksThere are no water slides.N/A
Boutique shop selling jewerly on a Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Shopping Onboard

Queen Elizabeth has a range of shops onboard that cater to different shopping needs, from luxury goods to essentials. Here’s a summary of what you can find:

  • Duty-Free Boutiques: Offering a selection of tax-free items such as alcohol, tobacco, and fragrances. Popular brands include Chanel, Dior, and Givenchy.
  • Fashion & Accessories: Shops like Hermès and Gucci offer high-end handbags, watches, and jewellery.
  • Cunard Souvenir Shop: Pick up branded Cunard merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and keepsakes like model ships or Cunard history books.
  • Jewellery and Watches: Luxury timepieces and fine jewellery are available from brands like TAG Heuer and Swarovski.
  • Essentials: Forgot something? There’s a shop with personal items such as toiletries, sunscreen, and snacks.
Childrens play zone on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Children's Programs

Queen Elizabeth offers a range of children’s programs designed to entertain different age groups, ensuring that younger passengers have as much fun as the adults:

  • The Play Zone (Ages 2–7): This area is designed for younger children and includes supervised activities like themed days, arts and crafts, games, and toys. Children under 2 can also join in, but only with parental supervision.

  • The Kids’ Zone (Ages 8–12): Kids can enjoy a mix of fun activities such as sports, video games, and arts and crafts, all supervised by Cunard’s Youth Team.

  • The Teen Zone (Ages 13–17): Teens have their own space with social events like discos, sports, and gaming tournaments. It’s a great place for them to hang out and meet other teens onboard​.

  • Night Nursery (Ages 6 months–23 months): This service is free of charge and provides a safe place for infants to sleep, supervised by professional childminders. It’s open from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm​.

Lady doing washing in laundry room on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Laundry Services

  • Self-Service Laundry: Available on several decks (Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8). These launderettes are free and equipped with washing machines, dryers, irons, and ironing boards, detergent is also provided free of charge. These are popular with guests and are operational from around 7:30 am to 9:00 pm​.

  • Full-Service Laundry: If you prefer not to do your own laundry, full-service options are available. The prices range from $3 for socks or undergarments to $20 for a formal evening dress. Same-day service incurs an additional 50% surcharge

Couple on gala night in formal dress getting photo taken on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Photography

There are professional photographers onboard snapping pics during big events like the gala nights or just around the ship. You can check out and buy these photos at the Photo Gallery, with prices usually starting around $10 per photo. Unfortunately, it’s not available through the onboard app.

  • Where to Take Your Own Photos: For those Instagram-worthy shots, head to the Grand Lobby with its impressive staircase and chandelier or catch the sunset on the Promenade Deck. The Queens Room also makes for a perfect backdrop, especially when everyone’s dressed up for a formal event.

  • Photo Packages: If you think you’ll want to take home more than a few pictures, consider grabbing a photo package, which bundles multiple shots at a discount. You can sort this out either before you board or while onboard.

  • Photo Competition: You can enter the onboard competition, however it’ll cost you $10 per photo to enter. The prize is a print of your photo and a heavy plastic plaque.
No fly cruise options for Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

No-Fly UK Ports

If you’re not keen on flying to start your cruise, Queen Elizabeth has several no-fly cruise options departing directly from the UK. These cruises typically set sail from Southampton, which is Cunard’s homeport and one of the most convenient embarkation points for UK travellers.

Southampton has a good variety of itineraries, from short European getaways to longer voyages to the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, and even transatlantic crossings to New York.

No need to worry about airports or luggage limits – just board in Southampton and your holiday begins the moment you step onto the ship.

Crew learning about the environmental program on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Environmental Programs

Cunard is increasingly focused on sustainability, and Queen Elizabeth has adopted several environmental initiatives to reduce the ship’s ecological footprint. Some of these include:

  • Energy Efficiency: Queen Elizabeth uses energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and improved hull designs, to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

  • Waste Management: The ship has a comprehensive waste management system onboard, recycling materials such as glass, metal, and plastic. Food waste is processed and sometimes turned into biofuel.

  • Exhaust Gas Cleaning: The ship is equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems, also known as scrubbers, to reduce harmful sulphur emissions from the ship’s engines.

  • Plastic Reduction: Cunard is working to eliminate single-use plastics onboard, including replacing plastic straws and utensils with sustainable alternatives.

Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria cruise ships

Sister Ships

Queen Elizabeth is part of Cunard’s Queen-class of ships, which includes her sister ships Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2. While they share similarities, each ship has its own unique style and features:

  • Queen Victoria: Like Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria has a traditional, elegant design with art deco influences. Both ships share similar layouts and amenities, but Queen Victoria is slightly smaller and has a more intimate feel, making it ideal for passengers seeking a quieter atmosphere.

  • Queen Mary 2: This ship is larger and serves as Cunard’s flagship. Queen Mary 2 is designed specifically for transatlantic crossings and is one of the fastest ocean liners in service. It has a more distinct layout, with additional features such as a planetarium and more expansive public spaces.

Perks for Repeat Cruisers on Cunard Cruise Line

Perks for Repeat Cruisers

Cunard rewards its loyal guests through the Cunard World Club, which offers various perks based on the number of cruises or nights sailed. Here’s a quick breakdown of the tiers and benefits:

  • Silver (1 voyage): As soon as you complete your first Cunard cruise, you’re enrolled as a Silver member. Benefits include up to 5% off future bookings, access to a loyalty representative onboard, and the Cunarder magazine.

  • Gold (2 voyages or 20 nights): In addition to Silver perks, you get two hours of free internet, a Gold membership pin, and an invitation to the World Club Cocktail Party.

  • Platinum (7 voyages or 70 nights): Includes all Gold benefits, plus four hours of internet, a complimentary wine tasting, 20% off laundry services, priority check-in, and an invitation to the Senior Officers’ Party.

  • Diamond (15 voyages or 150 nights): The highest tier, offering six hours of internet, priority disembarkation, a complimentary meal at one of the specialty dining venues, and access to a dedicated concierge.

Lady writing a review about Queen Elizabeth on the deck

Real reviews

Positive Reviews:

  1. “This ship is amazing for adults. There was ballroom dancing, croquet, boccie, and paddle ball. The food was great, especially the personal pizza section of the buffet. Room service was quick and delicious, and the afternoon tea was a real highlight.”

  2. “We especially enjoyed the ship’s elegant atmosphere, and it never felt too busy. The gala nights were a lot of fun. Loved every minute of it.”

Negative Reviews:

  1. “We were very disappointed in Cunard. The staff seemed tired and disengaged, and it felt like they were understaffed, especially in the bars. Service was not up to the standard we expected, and it really took away from the experience.”

  2. “Unfriendly staff across the board! Cabin stewards were polite, but the rest of the crew looked annoyed or downright hostile. It was off-putting for a holiday experience, especially in the buffet.”

Man in a wheelchair in his cabin on Queen Elizabeth cruise ship

Accessibility

Queen Elizabeth is well-equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. Here are the key accessibility features available onboard:

  • Wheelchair-Accessible Cabins: The ship offers a number of wheelchair-accessible staterooms, which are larger and feature roll-in showers, grab bars, and emergency call buttons. These rooms are designed to provide extra space for manoeuvring and easy access to all necessary amenities.

  • Public Areas: Most public areas, including dining rooms, theatres, and lounges, are wheelchair accessible. Elevators are conveniently located across the ship, providing access to all decks.

  • Shore Excursions: Cunard offers accessible shore excursions in certain ports. It’s recommended to book these in advance, as availability can be limited depending on the destination.

  • Assistance Services: The ship’s crew is trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges. You can arrange for wheelchair assistance during embarkation and disembarkation if needed.

Cruise tips for Queen Elizabeth ship

Cruise Ship Tips

Here are some handy insider tips to make your time on Queen Elizabeth even better:

  • Afternoon Tea Hack: The afternoon tea in the Queens Room is super popular, so get there early for the best seats. If you’re lucky, you’ll score a spot by the window for some epic sea views while you enjoy your scones. Always ask for more jam and cream!

  • Gala Night? No Stress: Don’t stress about packing formalwear for those fancy gala nights – there’s an option to rent outfits onboard. Saves you suitcase space and you’ll still look sharp.

  • Deck 3 Walks: Deck 3 has this awesome wraparound promenade. It’s a great spot for a morning walk or just to catch some fresh air without the crowds. It’s not for running though.

  • Quiet Spot: Check out the Garden Lounge on Deck 9. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, perfect for a quiet coffee or a good book when you need a break from the busier parts of the ship.

  • Book Early for Tours: If you’re planning on doing shore excursions, especially in hot spots like Alaska or the fjords, book them early! The good ones fill up fast.

  • Beat the Gym Crowds: Get to the gym before 7 a.m. to beat the crowds for the running machines.

  • Stay Connected: Use a VPN to access Google Drive and maps while onboard, it’s usually blocked with normal internet.

  • Handy Laundry Tip: Bring pegs for the washing line in the shower—perfect for keeping things secure as they dry.

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