Why Queen Elizabeth?
Queen Elizabeth is the cruise industry’s answer to a question most lines stopped asking: what does genuine British elegance actually look like at sea? Art deco design, polished wood panelling, and considered finishes throughout — not the Vegas-hotel aesthetic that dominates so much of modern cruising, but something quieter and more assured.
The service matches it. Cunard’s White Star Service has a reputation that’s earned rather than marketed, and a crew with unusually long tenures means you’re dealing with people who actually know what they’re doing. That consistency matters more than it sounds on a ten-night voyage.
What sets Queen Elizabeth apart from the broader Cunard fleet is atmosphere. Themed gala evenings, afternoon tea in the Queens Room, ballroom dancing with a live orchestra — these aren’t novelty add-ons, they’re the fabric of the experience. The ship carries a genuine connection to maritime history, with design details that nod to the original Queen Elizabeth liner. A significant refurbishment updated the cabins and public spaces, so the classic aesthetic now sits alongside facilities that are in genuinely good condition.
This is a ship that knows exactly what it is. If that sounds like your kind of cruising, it probably is. Not sure if Cunard is the right line for you? Read our honest guide to what makes Cunard different from other cruise lines.
Quick Ship Facts
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
What's Not Included in the Fare
- Specialty dining (e.g., The Verandah) — surcharge per person applies; check current rates with Cunard
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and premium coffees — drinks packages are available at tiered rates; see the Drinks Packages section above
- Shore excursions and tours — prices vary significantly by destination and activity
- Spa treatments at the Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa — massages, facials, and thermal suite access all carry additional charges
- Wi-Fi packages — two tiers available; see the Internet & Wi-Fi section above
- Laundry and dry cleaning — self-service launderettes are free; full valet laundry is charged per item
- Gratuities (unless pre-paid) — automatically added by cabin grade; see the Gratuities section above
- Private box seating in the Royal Court Theatre — bookable at an additional charge per couple
- Photos taken by onboard photographers — available to purchase at the Photo Gallery
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant, traditional cruise experience | Not as casual as some other cruise lines |
| Excellent White Star Service | Formal dress codes on gala nights |
| Wide variety of dining options | Specialty restaurants come with extra fees |
| Great onboard entertainment, including theatre | Wi-Fi and drink packages can be pricey |
| Spacious staterooms with classic décor | Limited options for families with young kids |
| Beautiful public spaces with art deco design | Can feel more formal and traditional |
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:
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.
Asia: Cruises cover vibrant cities such as Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, with excursions to temples, bustling markets, and historic landmarks.
Australia & New Zealand: Explore the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney, Auckland, and Fiordland with scenic cruising along Australia and New Zealand’s stunning coastlines.
Baltic Sea: Visit historical capitals like St. Petersburg, Tallinn, and Stockholm while exploring the rich history and culture of Northern Europe.
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
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!
Here are the latest cruise deals on Queen Elizabeth:
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.
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.
Gratuities and Tipping
On Queen Elizabeth, gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account daily. The rate varies depending on your cabin grade — Britannia staterooms are charged at a lower rate than Princess and Queens Grill suites. Drinks and spa services carry an additional service charge on top of that.
If you’d rather handle tipping yourself, you can request to have the automatic charges removed at the Purser’s Desk at any time during your cruise. Many guests still choose to tip crew members individually — particularly cabin stewards and restaurant staff — but it’s entirely optional. Current gratuity rates change periodically, so check directly with Cunard or your booking agent for the latest figures.
Our guide to tipping on your cruise holiday will help you understand how it all works.
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.
Cunard Insights: The Enrichment Programme That Changes Everything
Here’s what most people don’t realise about Queen Elizabeth: the sea days aren’t dead time. They’re part of the point.
The Cunard Insights programme deploys over 430 speakers across the fleet annually, delivering more than 2,000 exclusive talks covering geopolitics, adventure, natural history, literature, and the arts. These happen in the Royal Court Theatre — included in your fare — and the seats fill up. Sporting icons, explorers, filmmakers, historians, and scientists have all taken to the stage. The breadth is deliberate: on any given voyage you might hear a foreign correspondent one afternoon and a mountaineer the next.
Where it gets genuinely impressive is destination immersion. On Alaska sailings, an onboard naturalist stays for the entire voyage, providing live commentary during scenic cruising and running an Alaska Outpost in the Garden Lounge — a dedicated station with maps and itinerary insight. Cunard’s partnership with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, now in its third Alaska season, brings RCGS experts aboard select voyages alongside Native Cultural Heritage Guides from Alaska Native Voices, who run lectures and workshops on Tlingit history and culture throughout the sailing. That’s a level of purposeful, destination-led programming you wouldn’t automatically expect from a 2,000-passenger ship.
The honest caveat: the programme varies by voyage. Alaska sailings carry the most intensive lineup. Shorter European itineraries tend to have a lighter schedule. Check the confirmed speakers for your specific sailing before it becomes a deciding factor.
Insider tip: The Royal Court Theatre fills fast for popular Insights talks on sea days. Arrive 15 minutes early — there’s no booking system, it’s first come, first seated.
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
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.
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.
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 Name | Type of Food | Included in Fare | Extra Cost (USD) | Reservations Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Britannia Restaurant | International fine dining | Yes | No | No |
| Britannia Club | Exclusive fine dining for Britannia Club guests | Yes | No | No |
| Princess Grill | Elevated dining for Princess Grill Suites guests | Yes | No | No |
| Queens Grill | Gourmet dining for Queens Grill Suites guests | Yes | No | No |
| Lido Buffet | Casual buffet, international cuisine | Yes | No | No |
| Golden Lion Pub | British pub fare. Lunch & Dinner | Yes | No | No |
| The Verandah Steakhouse | Premium steak and seafood | No | Surcharge applies; check current rates with Cunard | Yes |
| Room Service | 24-hour in-room dining | Yes | No | No |
| Lido Grill | Grilled items like burgers and hot dogs by the pool | Yes | No | No |
| Café Carinthia | Specialty coffees, teas, and light bites | Drinks cost extra. Light bites are included. | Prices vary ($4-12) | No |
| Queens Room Afternoon Tea | Traditional afternoon tea | Yes | No | No |
| Champagne Afternoon Tea | Champagne with extra special goodies | No | $40 pp | Yes |
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.
Drink Packages & Costs
Cunard offers a tiered drinks package system covering everything from soft drinks to a full alcohol package. One thing worth knowing before you sail: you’re allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard. Drink it in your cabin and there’s no charge. Take it to a bar or restaurant and a corkage fee applies.
The packages broadly break down as follows:
- Soft Drinks Package — unlimited draught sodas, fruit juices, squash, and cordials
- Premium Soft Drinks Package — expands on the above to include bottled water, specialty hot drinks, and non-alcoholic cocktails
- Specialty Hot Drinks Package — unlimited illy coffees, Tea Forté infusions, and hot chocolates. Worth it if you’re a serial café visitor
- Beers, Wines, and Spirits Package — covers most alcoholic beverages up to a set price per serving, with a discount on anything above that threshold. One honest note: the wine selection under this package doesn’t extend to the premium list
Packages bought before you board are cheaper than buying onboard, so sort this in advance. Current pricing changes regularly — check directly with Cunard or your booking agent for the latest figures before you sail.
Cabin Choices
| Cabin Type | Number of Cabins | Room Size (sq. ft.) | Balcony Size (sq. ft.) | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Britannia Inside | 124 | 150 | N/A | Standard amenities, flat-screen TV, bathrobe, slippers |
| Britannia Deluxe Inside | 38 | 200–245 | N/A | Larger layout, seating area, standard amenities |
| Britannia Oceanview | 146 | 180–200 | N/A | Picture window, seating area, standard amenities |
| Britannia Balcony | 572 | 190–420 | 70 | Private balcony, seating area, minibar |
| Britannia Club Balcony | 39 | 190–220 | 80 | Private balcony, access to Britannia Club restaurant |
| Princess Grill Suite | 61 | 290–420 | 90 | Concierge service, exclusive restaurant access, welcome wine |
| Queens Grill Suite | 35 | 485–770 | 150–350 | Butler service, larger balcony, whirlpool bathtub |
| Penthouse Suite | 25 | 500–680 | 115–150 | Butler service, priority perks, and access to exclusive areas |
| Master Suite | 2 | 870 | 220 | Separate dining area, butler service, wraparound balcony |
| Single Staterooms | 9 | 133–180 | N/A | Solo 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 & 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 & Wi-Fi
Cunard upgraded its internet service on Queen Elizabeth by rolling out Starlink, which delivers noticeably better coverage across the ship — but don’t expect a bargain. Two tiers are available: an Essential plan covering browsing, email, and social media, and a Premium plan with speeds suitable for video streaming.
Longer voyages and Cunard World Club loyalty members get better rates, so it’s worth checking your tier before buying. Prices change regularly, so check directly with Cunard for current package costs before you sail.
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.
| Feature | Details | Water Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Pavilion Pool | Located midship on Deck 9; surrounded by sun loungers and has 2 adjacent Jacuzzis. | Heated to around 27°C (80°F). |
| Lido Pool | Located aft on Deck 9; offers panoramic views with more loungers and 2 Jacuzzis nearby. | Heated to around 27°C (80°F). |
| Hydrotherapy Pool | Part of the Mareel Wellness & Beauty Spa; available with a day pass or spa treatment. | Approximately 32°C (90°F). |
| Hot Tubs | 4 outdoor Jacuzzis, 2 by each main pool. | Approximately 38°C (100°F) |
| Water Slides/Water Parks | There are no water slides. | N/A |
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.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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
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.
Real reviews
Positive Reviews:
“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.”
“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:
“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.”
“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.”
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 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.
Common Questions
Is Queen Elizabeth suitable for solo travellers? Yes, and more so than most traditional luxury lines. The ship has dedicated solo staterooms, which removes the single supplement sting entirely. The organised social activities — dance classes, quizzes, the Golden Lion pub — create natural opportunities to meet people without it feeling forced. Solo travellers who want company will find it; those who don’t won’t have it thrust upon them.
Can you dress casually the whole trip? During the day, yes. Evenings are a different matter. Gala nights require formal dress in the main dining rooms — there’s no getting around it. If formal nights genuinely don’t appeal, the Lido buffet operates a more relaxed dress code in the evenings and is a legitimate alternative. But booking a Cunard voyage hoping to avoid the dress code entirely is a bit like booking a silent retreat and hoping they’ll turn the music on.
Is Queen Elizabeth good for first-time cruisers? It depends entirely on what kind of first-timer you are. If you want a gentle introduction with a party atmosphere and no expectations, look elsewhere. If you want a structured, elegant experience with excellent service and you’re comfortable with some formality, Queen Elizabeth is actually a brilliant first ship — the high service standards and clear daily rhythm take a lot of the guesswork out of cruising. If you’re still weighing up whether cruising is for you at all, our new to cruising guide is a good place to start.
Does Queen Elizabeth visit the same ports as other cruise lines? Often yes, but the experience in port can feel different. Cunard tends to schedule longer port stays than many mainstream lines, and the shore excursion programme on destination-immersive sailings like Alaska is more considered than the standard tourist circuit. You’re not necessarily going somewhere nobody else goes — you’re going with more context.
What happens if you don’t want to participate in formal nights? Nothing, provided you adjust where you eat. The main dining rooms enforce the dress code on gala evenings, but the Lido buffet and room service are always available without any dress requirement. Some passengers use formal nights as an excuse to eat in their cabin with room service and watch the sea — not the worst evening imaginable.
Is the Queens Room afternoon tea really worth it? Yes, but with a caveat. The setting — a grand ballroom with a live orchestra — is genuinely unlike anything else at sea, and the tea itself is properly done. The caveat is that it’s popular and the best seats go quickly. Get there early, ask for extra jam and cream, and treat it as an event rather than just a snack.