Queen Mary 2 - Stargazing, the Environment and Europe without Flying

This week we add to our collection of articles and interviews about Queen Mary 2 of Cunard Line. (see index of QM2 articles at http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-articles-interviews-reviews.html) QM2 is one the most extensively-covered ships on Beyondships. I have sailed on her more times than any other ship currently in service. In part, this is due to the fact that she sails between Europe and America and thus facilitates getting to and from the ships based on either side of the Atlantic. But it is also because I like the atmosphere onboard, particularly the enrichment program.

One aspect of the enrichment program that I like is that it goes beyond what you normally find on ships. QM2 has the normal sea-going activities such as trivia contests, Bingo, and arts and crafts. Like several other cruise lines, she also has a good lecture series. However, QM2 also has activities such as: acting classes with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts; jazz workshops with professors and/or students from Julliard; and a song writing program in which guests are guided by professional musicians. Some of these activities are regular features on QM2's daily program, others are presented on some but not all voyages, while still others may only occur once. However, the point is that QM2 consistently provides high quality programs that are beyond what you would normally expect at sea.

QM2's astronomy program is an example of this kind of programming. The ship was built with the only planetarium at sea. In this facility guests journey through space via programs developed in conjunction with the American Museum of Natural History's Hayden Planetarium. This alone would be enough to place the ship's astronomy program beyond the norm. However, Cunard also has a relationship with the Royal Astronomical Society in which noted astronomers not only give talks but interact with guests in other ways. Our article about the astronomy program, including an interview with Dr. Chris Crowe of the University of Cambridge, is at http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-astronomy.html

A question that is frequently posed by guests is what happens to the leftover food, garbage and waste that is generated during a cruise? In the old days, the solution was just to toss it over the side. However, in these more environmentally conscious days, we know that such an approach has adverse consequences for the planet.

I asked Ariadna Mayoral, Environmental Compliance Officer on Queen Mary 2, about what happens to the garbage and waste on her ship. During the course of our conversation, I learned that there are environmental considerations in nearly every aspect of the ship's operation. The interview is posted at: http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-environmental.html

During the course of my travels, I have met many frequent cruisers in North America who say that they would like to visit Europe but that they do not want to fly. Flying is no longer the glamorous means of transportation that it once was and it is very understandable that people do not want to spoil their vacation by flying.

However, this does not mean that you have to miss out on the experience of going to Europe. While it is more time-consuming than flying, many people sail both to and from Europe. Queen Mary 2 sails both ways. In addition, it is possible to sail at least one way on a cruise ship. In a new FAQ item, we discuss how this is done and some of the considerations involved. It is at http://www.beyondships2.com/faq-europe-without-flying.html

Queen Mary 2 videos

 I was recently on a cruise during which Queen Mary 2 was with us in three of the ports as well as when we embarked from New York. It was interesting to watch the reaction of the passengers on the ship that I was on each time they saw QM2. People would stop and make some comment like: “Is that the Queen Mary?” And then they would pause for awhile just to watch. It was a recognition that this was something special that you could tell your friends and family about - - “I saw the Queen Mary 2.”

Cunard's QM2 is an imposing sight. At 150,000 gross tons, she is much larger than the majority of today's cruise ships. Also her sleek streamlined silhouette has a traditional grace and beauty.

But the thing that stops people in their tracks is the fact that Queen Mary 2 is heir to a tradition that goes back some 170 years. She is the only true ocean liner providing regularly scheduled transatlantic service. As such, she follows in a tradition of such legendary ships as the original Queen Mary, the Normandie, the France, the United States and most recently, the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2).

These ships became legendary not just because of their technology but as the epitome of luxury. They captured the public's imagination with images of movie stars, royalty and the rich and famous mingling in beautiful surroundings.

Queen Mary 2 brings that image into the modern era. Leaving QE2 aside, the luxury on the historic ships was pretty much limited to first class. On Queen Mary 2, everyone can participate. (One of the myths that has arisen about QM2 is that she is a two-class ship. She is not. There are separate dining rooms for passengers traveling in the suites but other than that every passenger pretty much can go anywhere any other passenger can go. There is actually more separation of passengers on some of today's cruise ships than there is on QM2).

This ship is also technologically unique. In order to be able to handle any weather that might confront her during an Atlantic crossing, the ship was built to be strong and powerful. Although she is rarely called upon to do so, she can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. In addition, I have been on her in tremendous storms during which the dining rooms were nonetheless full of passengers. That is a testament to her stability.

Another thing that makes QM2 interesting is that she does varied itineraries. Her mainstay, of course, is the transatlantic crossing between New York and Southampton but she also turns up in the Norwegian fjords, in the Caribbean, circling the British Isles, in Germany, Australia, and on the Canada & New England run. When she does appear, the reaction is always the same: people stop and stare. Indeed, there have been instances in Hamburg and in Australia where they came in the thousands just to have a look.

I've put together several new videos on Queen Mary 2. The first is an introductory piece with video of the ship sailing and a slideshow of the ship's public areas – theaters, restaurants, bars and lounges etc. It is posted at http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-video-review.html

The other two videos will primarily be of interest to QM2 fans. One shows the ship sailing into Halifax, Nova Scotia and maneuvering into her berth. It is posted at http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-arrives-video.html

The third video is the flip side of the second one. Filmed some eight hours after the arrival shown above, this video shows QM2 leaving her berth and going out to sea. In it, you can hear Queen Mary 2's fabulous deep fog horns. The video is at http://www.beyondships2.com/queen-mary-2-departs-video.html

Cunard's Queen Victoria at Five - new photo review and interview

            It has been almost five years since Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria entered service.  As such, it is appropriate to take a look and see just where the ship is these days.

            Queen Victoria was conceived to solve a problem that had plagued Cunard since the 1960s.  Ever since it began in the 1840s, Cunard’s business and reputation had been based on transatlantic crossings.  However, by the 1960s, the jet airliner had become the method of choice for most people traveling between Europe and North America.  As a result, there was only room on the Atlantic for one ocean liner.

Despite some who questioned whether even one liner was too many, Cunard built a new liner, the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) http://www.beyondships.com/QE2.html and entered her into service in 1969.  Although she went through some difficult times, that ship proved that there was still enough of a market to support one liner in the jet age.

            But Cunard wanted to remain a major name in the passenger ship business and you could not remain a major player with a one ship fleet.  Therefore, during the second half of the 20^th century, Cunard tried a number of ways to expand beyond the transatlantic service: mass market cruising; luxury yacht cruising; and purchasing a variety of ships that catered to different niche markets.  As a result, the line ended up with a polyglot fleet that had no real focus.

            When Carnival Corporation purchased Cunard in 1997, it decided that the way to revitalize the company was to return to the original focus.   The first step was to build a new ocean liner that would assume the transatlantic crossing role that had been fulfilled by the aging QE2.  This resulted in the Queen Mary 2, which entered service in 2004. http://www.beyondships.com/QM2.html

            The next step was to sell off the rest of the polyglot fleet or redistribute the ships to other Carnival companies which were more closely aligned to the markets those ships served.  They would be replaced by new ships especially built for Cunard.

            These new ships would not be ocean liners in the strict technological sense of the term.  Rather, they would be cruise ships designed to provide a cruise experience similar to that of the great ocean liners of the past.  They would complement QM2’s transatlantic role by providing cruises in Europe and America and by doing world cruises.  Consequently, Cunard would once again become a distinct, coherent brand.

            The first of these new ships was Queen Victoria.  Built by Fincantieri, she is based upon the Vista class design, which has been used for ships sailing with Holland America, P&O Cruises and Costa Cruises.*   However, going beyond those ships, Cunard made her longer and strengthened her hull in order to enable her to do itineraries involving rougher waters.

            What really distinguishes Queen Victoria from the other ships of the Vista design is the interior.  The overall theme of the decor is 19^th century and successfully recalls the great ships of the early 20^th century.  This is helped to a large extent by some multi-deck high public rooms such as the Queens Room ballroom that give the ship a sense of grandeur beyond its physical size.  Even after five years, the interior remains one of the elegant on the seas.

            The elegance of the physical surroundings would be for naught unless the service levels were also consistent with people’s expectation of what service on a great liner was like.  On my most recent voyage on Queen Victoria, I found the service levels to be quite good.  This may be due in part to the injection of a large number of QE2 crew members into the ship after that ship left service.  In addition, as Hotel Manager David Hamilton described it, the ship has “settled.” The crew is familiar with the physical plant and with each other and so relationships and routines have developed that make it all work harmoniously.

            Thus, Queen Victoria is a successful ship.  She does what she set out to do - - she provides a cruise experience that has the ambiance of a classic ocean liner.  Having sailed more than 70 times on QE2 and nearly 30 times on QM2, it seems to me that she has the Cunard feel about her

            Beyondships’ coverage of Queen Victoria has been significantly expanded.  The profile page has been augmented with the addition of new menus, daily programmes and informational leaflets distributed on the ship. http://beyondships.com/QV.html  The photo review has been almost entirely redone.  http://beyondships.com/QV-Tour-1.html  In addition, there is a new photo essay showing the ship in various Mediterranean ports  http://beyondships.com/QV-photos-Med.html  and there is a new interview in which Hotel Manager David Hamilton and Entertainment Director Paul O’Loughlin share some thoughts on Queen Victoria today.  http://www.beyondships2.com/cunard-queen-victoria-comes-of-age.html

* There appears to be some confusion as to whether the Queen Victoria was originally ordered for Holland America.  One of the reasons why Carnival purchased Cunard was to get a brand name that was a household name in Great Britain and which could be used in competing with P&O, Britain’s largest cruise line.  Therefore, after Carnival purchased Cunard, it designated one of the Vista class ships that it had ordered for Holland America from Fincantieri as being for Cunard.  This ship was to be the start of a series of ships that would compete with P&O and had the working name “Queen Victoria.”  However, before that ship was completed, Carnival merged with P&O.  Since there was no longer any reason to have a Cunard ship that would compete with P&O, the ship was re-designated as a P&O ship.  Today, that ship is the Arcadia of P&O Cruises.  http://www.beyondships.com/PO--Arcadia-Profile.html              

Talking with Cunard Commodore Rynd and Oasis of the Seas Photos

We have two new items this week.




First, we speak with Commodore Christopher Rynd of Cunard Line. The commodore of a passenger ship line is the senior seagoing officer in the line’s fleet. Traditionally, he has been the master of the line’s flagship and unlike a commodore in the military, his role has been pretty much limited to that ship.



Commodore Rynd, who was appointed commodore in April 2011, aims to break with tradition. While his two immediate predecessors as commodore were necessarily focused on bringing the line’s flagship, Queen Mary 2, into service and establishing her as a viable competitor in the modern cruise industry, Commodore Rynd sees his role as extending fleet-wide - - the goal being to further facilitate a unified Cunard product across the line’s three ships.



I sat down with Commodore Rynd during a transatlantic voyage on Queen Mary 2 and asked him about his vision for his new role. As in past interviews, his answers were well-thought out and well-articulated. Our conversation is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-Rynd-3.html



The second item this week is a new photo essay on Oasis of the Seas. On November 23, 2011, Oasis paid a call at the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. Although there were five other first-class cruise ships in port with her, Oasis was the center of attention. As the photographs of her during the course of the day and into the evening show, she attracts attention not just because of the enormity of her size but also because of the sense of excitement that she generates. The photo essay is posted at http://www.beyondships.com/RCI-OOS-StMaarten.html

Aruba Cruise Destination Photo Guide/ Today's Fast Cruise Ships

As I sit here, there is approximately a foot of snow covering the ground and weighing down the trees, most of which still have green leaves on them. Although the storm that did this was an unusual one for the New York area, it underscored that it is not too early to think about the Caribbean.




In Aruba, the temperature has been in the mid to upper eighties the last week. Instead of white snow, Aruba has gorgeous fine white sand beaches that lead up to the clearest turquoise blue water that I have encountered in the Caribbean. With the palm trees and the divi-divi trees that border the sand, these are immensely attractive beaches.



While it is tempting to spend all of ones stay in Aruba on the beaches, there is more to the island. There is very little rainfall on Aruba and so the area away from the resorts of the west coast beaches is quite dessert-like. However, intermixed with the cacti and other dessert vegetation are some intriguing natural phenomena such as the Casibari Rock Formations with its mountains of boulders. They have been sculpted by the wind and with the vegetation it is like an other-worldly garden.



In complete contrast to the tranquility of the western beaches is the rugged northern coast. There, giant waves roll in and crash against the limestone shore in an explosive spray. Until 2005, there was a large natural bridge that had been carved out of the shore by the waves. However, the force of the sea became too much for it and it collapsed. The ruins of the bridge are still popular and next to it, the smaller “Baby Bridge” is spectacular in its own right.



For shoppers, there is the island’s capital Oranjestad. Along its main street, you can find all of the chain stores that populate all the popular Caribbean ports. In addition, there are high end luxury boutiques and stalls where local craftsmen and entrepaneurs offer their wares.



Beyondships’ cruise destination photo guide for Aruba is at http://www.beyondships.com/Ports-Aruba.html



I have also posted an article about today’s fast cruise ships. Traditionally, cruise ships have been relatively slow ships. However, in recent years quite a few ships have been built capable of doing a respectable speed.  Cunard, Norwegian (NCL), and Royal Caribbean, all have fast ships in their fleets.



Often when I interview cruise ship captains, I ask them how fast their ship can go. The answer is sometimes higher than the published speed. While they typically point out that in order to concerv fuel, ships today rarely travel at full speed, there are times when speed is quite useful. 



In any event, a fast ship is sort of neat regardless of whether the full speed is ever used. It is like a fine sports car - - having a Ferrari is cool regardless of the fact that you’ll probably never drive it at a speed that you could not do in a Volkswagen Beetle.



The article is posted at http://www.beyondships2.com/the-need-for-speed-----todays-fast-cruise-ships.html

Songwriting, Juilliard Jazz, and Gourmet Dining - - Sea Days on Queen Mary 2

People considering a transatalantic voyage for the first time often ask “Won’t I be bored with all of those days at sea?” However, unlike the old days when passengers had to entertain themselves, today ships crossing the pond offer an array of activities design to entertain and stimulate passengers. Moreover, the intense competition amongst the cruise lines is driving the lines to continuously develop new and innovative programming for sea days.




This is particularly tru for Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, which specializes in transatlantic crossings. QM2 is a beautiful ship both technologically and in the facilities it provides to passengers. However, Cunard is well aware that today’s vacationers want more than a pretty face. Accordingly, the line strives to present sophisticated programming that will attract the discerning traveler.



One example of such programming is the QM2 Songwriting Voyages. Developed with British songwriter/musician Chris Difford, this program gives guests the opportunity to write songs during the course of the voyage. Working with a team of professional songwriters, the guest write, record and perform their songs in the ship’s Royal Court Theatre. Along the way, the guests have fun, make new friends and often learn something new about themselves. My article about the songwriting program is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-songwriting.html



Another way Cunard enhances its transatlantic voyages is through partnerships with renown artistic academies. For several years, Cunard has had troupes London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts onboard QM2 to perform and to provide acting workshops. (See article at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-rada.html). More recently, Cunard has had faculty, graduates and students from the jazz division of New York’s Juilliard School onboard selected crossings. The jazz musicians perform and interact with the guests. My article about this popular program is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-Juilliard.html



A longstanding Cunard partnership is with celebrity chef Todd English, who has developed a seagoing version of his restaurant for QM2. Sea days allow QM2 to open this specialty restaurant for lunch. My review of lunch at QM2’s Todd English is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-review-Todd-English-lunch.html



The bottom line here is that with activities such as these available, it is very unlikely that any one is going to get bored during sea days on QM2. In fact, most passengers complain that there was not enough time during the voyage to do everything that they wanted to do.

Photo Guide to Bermuda; Review of Portofino Restaurant; Inside Shore Excursions

The Bermuda cruising season has begun and is actually well underway. Although Bermuda is sometimes grouped together with the Caribbean islands, it is actually much further north - - about on the same latitude as North Carolina. Consequently, it is not a winter cruise destination. But, during the Spring and Summer months, it does not get as hot as the islands further south. This is one reason why it is a great summer cruise destination.

Another reason is the beauty of the island. It has a bevy of world class beaches - - many with pink sand and artistic looking rock formations. In addition, the landscape is charming with brightly painted houses nestled in amongst the sub-tropical foliage.

A Bermuda cruise is a short cruise from the US East Coast - - there are ships that leave regularly from Boston, New York and Baltimore. The first day is a lazy sail as the ships have to travel at a slow speed to avoid arriving too quickly. Then, most ships spend at least a couple of days in Bermuda. Not only does this allow guests to see the sights during the day but one can sample the island’s culture in the evening.

The culture of the islands - - Bermuda is actually a chain of small islands linked together by bridges and causeways - - is a unique mix. For example, there is the traditional business attire of a suit jacket, tie and shorts. One can see British influences and African influences.

Bermuda is an international business center. As a result, although the island is tourist friendly it is not as commercialized as some of the Caribbean ports. Most shops have a Bermuda flavor and the chain stores that one sees in every Caribbean port are conspicuous by their absence.

Bermuda is home to a sizeable number of billionaires and film stars. Their mansions are sometimes visible perched along the shore. Similarly, there are resorts such as the Elbow Beach Club that cater to the rich and famous. Perhaps it is the romance of the islands combined with its scenic beauty and easy lifestyle that attract them. In any case, it is a good recommendation for Bermuda that people who could spend their time anywhere in the world choose to spend time in Bermuda.

Beyondships’ new photo guide to Bermuda is at http://www.beyondships.com/Ports-Bermuda-1.html

One ship that is a regular visitor to Bermuda is Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas. The specialty restaurant onboard her is the elegant Italian-style Portofino. My review of this specialty restaurant is at http://www.beyondships.com/Explorer-Review-Portofino.html

Finally, most people who cruise take a shore excursion purchased through the ship’s shore excursion office. Accordingly, I spoke with Beatrix Bense, the Tour Office Manager on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 about how a tour office works and how shore excursions are arranged. That interview is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Bense.html

Profile and Photo Tour - Celebrity Constellation

A problem that arises when a cruise line builds a series of new and innovative ships is the effect on the line’s existing ships. Your new ships make your competitors’ ships look less attractive. But without all of the new features of their new fleetmates, your existing ships are also going to look less attractive. The last thing you want is for a customer who has been attracted to your cruise line because of a great experience on your new ship to be disappointed when he or she cruises on one of the line’s older ships.

To avert this outcome, Celebrity Cruises is investing millions of dollars to “Solsticize” its existing fleet. This means taking features that have proven popular on its new Solstice class ships and putting versions of those features on its Millennium class ships. This includes new specialty restaurants, new bars and lounges as well as changes to the décor of the ships. At the same time, the line is refurbishing the ship’s accommodations.

Solsticizing the four Millennium class ships is a complicated undertaking. The Millenniums have always been popular in their own right and so Celebrity would like to maintain their character. However, while they are large ships (91,000 gross tons), they are not as large as the Solstice ships (122,000 gross tons) and they do not have larges areas of unused space. Thus, in order to add new features, some of the existing features would have to go.

Celebrity began this process last Spring with the youngest of the four Millenniums - - Celebrity Constellation. At least in my view, the line managed to carry out the Solsticization very well. The new features add to the cruise experience but at the same time what made Constellation a standout premium ship has been maintained. Constellation is still Constellation; not a mini-version of Solstice.

The best example of this is the addition of the Tuscan Grill specialty restaurant. This concept debuted on Celebrity Solstice and combines Italian cuisine and an American-style steakhouse - - two very popular types of dining. The atmosphere is upscale but not overly formal. On the Solstice ships, this restaurant occupies a large area along the stern of the ship. The comparable space on the Millennium class ships is occupied by the main dining rooms, which are spectacular. So, Celebrity could not simply transplant the Tuscan Grill concept as is to Constellation.

Looking around the Millenniums, Celebrity saw that an area at the top of the ship that had been used as a conservatory/florist shop was rarely used by passengers. Adding some space that had been used for ping pong tables and a lobby area, Celebrity saw there was enough space here for a restaurant. The conservatory’s tall glass windows bring in natural light just as the large windows in the Tuscan Grill on Solstice do. As a result, Celebrity was able to transplant the Tuscan Grill concept to Constellation.

The Beyondships’ photo tour of Constellation has been re-photographed to show the changes that have been made to Constellation. It begins at http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Constellation-Tour-1a.html
In addition, the profile page has new menus, daily programs and other information about the ship. http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Constellation-Profile.html
Finally, we have added a new part II to our photo essay Constellation in the Caribbean showing the ship in more Caribbean ports of call. http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Constellation-Caribbean-2.html
Changing topics, this week Commodore Bernard Warner of Cunard Line retired. Commodore Warner’s firm hand did a great deal to shape Queen Mary 2. We wish him well in his future endeavors.

Cunard also announced that it had appointed Captain Christopher Rynd as its new commodore. Commodore Rynd brings with him a wealth of experience from his time at Princess Cruises and P&O. He is also one of the few masters who can claim to have commanded three of the Cunard Queens - - Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2. For more information about Commodore Rynd’s career, see our interview at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-Rynd-1.html

Cunard's Royal Rendezvous Photos and Norwegian Epic Interview

The most spectacular event this week in the cruise industry was the Cunard Royal Rendezvous in New York. All three of Cunard’s Queens - - Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth - - were in port for the day and Cunard orchestrated numerous events including ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange, bathing the Empire State Building in lights that matched the traditional Cunard funnel colours and culminating in a giant fireworks display as the three ships left the harbour.

The arrival of three ships from one cruise line in New York Harbour is not all that unusual and certainly not enough to turn the heads of most New Yorkers. Furthermore, while the three Cunarders are big ships, they are not the biggest ships afloat. Why then was the Royal Rendezvous something to note?

The reason is two-fold. First, Cunard has a relationship with New York that goes back over a century. Shortly after the line was founded in 1840, New York became the western terminus for Cunard’s transatlantic crossings. Over the years, the City grew and Cunard grew. Indeed, walking around the City one can still see the Cunard name on buildings and on piers, which testifies to the fact that the line has played a not insignificant role in the story of the City.

Second, New Yorkers admire those who are the best at what they do and for many years, Cunard was the undeniable champion of the passenger ship industry. Even today, the names Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth and QE2 summon up images of grandeur and grace. This mystique has been inherited by today’s Cunarders.

This year’s Royal Rendezvous almost did not happen. A severe blizzard struck the City the day before the event. If it had been a day later, the event could not have happened. Moreover, had the lingering winds stayed above 25 knots, the authorities would not have let the events go forward. As it turned out, the day was beautifully clear although bitterly cold.

I managed to skate across the snow and ice that remained on New York’s sidewalks and streets to photograph all three of the ships at their various berths in Brooklyn and Manhattan. In addition, I attended the press conference held by Cunard at Pier 88 where the line was showcasing the new Queen Elizabeth, which entered service last October. Also seen around the pier were such Cunard celebrities as Commodore Bernard Warner, Commodore Ronald Warwick (ret.), Captain Ray Heath (ret.), Captain Inger Olsen, Captain Julian Burgess and Carnival Corporation CEO Micky Arison.

As darkness fell, I took my Nikon to the 14th floor of the Ritz Carlton Hotel overlooking Battery Park at the tip of Manhattan island. There on the open balcony amongst the television crews and the people directing the fireworks display, I was treated to the sight of the giant ships proceeding in stately procession through the harbor as fireworks illuminated the Statue of Liberty. It was an unforgettable sight that made standing in the icy wind worthwhile.

My photo essay of the 2011 Royal Rendezvous begins at http://www.beyondships.com/Cunard-Royal-Rendezvous.html and the remarks of Cunard President and Managing Director Peter Shanks at the press conference are reported at http://www.beyondships.com/Cunard-Royal-Rendezvous-Shanks.htm.

Changing topics. I have also added a brief interview with Hotel Director Denis Prguda and Entertainment Director Julie Valeriote of Norwegian Epic. I first met Denis and Julie on Norwegian Pearl and know them to be true professionals. Consequently, I was very much impressed by the sincere enthusiasm with which they speak about Epic. The interview is at http://www.beyondships.com/NCLEpic-HD.html

Queen Mary 2's Todd English Restaurant

Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is a unique ship. She is the only ship sailing for a major cruise line that was designed as an ocean liner as opposed to a cruise ship and is the only ship that sails across the Atlantic on a regular basis Moreover, she carries on in the elegant tradition of the great liners in the lifestyle onboard.

This elegant lifestyle extends to the dining. As a nod to the modern age, the ship does have a buffet and some casual eateries but the main dining experience is fine dining. All of the main dining rooms present high quality food, professional service and a sophisticated atmosphere.

On many cruise ships, the role of the specialty restaurant is to offer guests a fine dining alternative. However, since this role is already filled on QM2 by the main dining rooms, the specialty restaurant must have a different role. Therefore, I decided to take an in-depth look at the specialty restaurant on QM2 - - the Todd English restaurant.

Todd English is an American celebrity chef who also owns several restaurants. His unique style of cooking has won him numerous awards. However, how is he able to transplant that style onto a ship that is at sea most of the time. Is it just his name on the door?

To help answer these questions, I spoke with QM2’s Executive Chef Mark Oldroyd who not only supervises the ship’s Todd English restaurant but also all of the other dining venues on QM2. Our conversation is posted at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-review-Todd-English.html


In addition Chef Oldroyd selected several items off the menu at the Todd English for a pictorial in which he discusses those items. http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-review-Todd-English-3.html

Finally, I have prepared a review in which I discuss my experience at both a lunch and a dinner in the Todd English. http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-review-Todd-English-2.html

Talking with Celebrity Summit's Captain; Review of Summit's Specialty Restaurant

Rounding out our update on Celebrity Summit are two new articles that approach the Summit experience from two different angles.

First, we have my interview with Captain Nikolaos Frantzis, the master of Celebrity Summit discussing the ship from a nautical perspective.. Captain Frantzis was for many years associated with Celebrity Mercury and came to Celebrity Summit earlier this year. From a nautical perspective, Mercury follows the traditional cruise ship model whereas Summit is very much based on the new model. Thus, Captain Frantzis is in a very good position to explain such things as the difference between a ship with a traditional propeller system and one with an azipod system. My conversation with Captain Frantzis is at http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Summit-art-captain.html

Second, we have my review of the specialty restaurant on the Summit. The Normandie restaurant on Summit is out of the ordinary because it purposely tries to invoke the atmosphere of the 1930s ocean liner SS Normandie. It even has artifacts and art work from the liner. The Normandie was perhaps the most elegant and sophisticated ship ever built so a restaurant seeking to recall that ship has to perform up to a very high level. Thus, in assessing the Normandie Restaurant, it was not just a question of whether it was good or not but a question of whether it lived up to its namesake. My review of the Normandie is at http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Summit-review-Normandie.html

This week Cunard announced that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be naming Cunard’s new ship, the Queen Elizabeth, on October 11 of this year. This is, of course, quite an honor and underscores Cunard’s unique position in the industry.

Of course, just because Cunard is planning to call its new ship Queen Elizabeth does not mean that that will be the ship’s name - - at least if one goes by historical precedent. In the late 1960s, Cunard built a new ship to replace the original Queen Elizabeth, which had been built in the 1930s and which had served with distinction in war and peace. The plan was to call the new ship Queen Elizabeth in tribute to the original ship. The original Queen Elizabeth had been named after the Queen Mother, the current monarch’s mother, and so Her Majesty was asked and agreed to name the new ship. However, at the naming ceremony she surprised everyone by saying: “I name this ship Queen Elizabeth the Second.” If the ship’s godmother had been some movie star or minor member of the nobility, this last minute addition might have been overlooked but the monarch’s words cannot be overlooked. Consequently, the new ship became the Queen Elizabeth 2.

While Her Majesty’s addition to the planned name sparked years of debate over whether the ship was named after the original Queen Elizabeth ship or whether it was named after the monarch, I think most people would agree that it was a good move. QE2 instantly had her own identity that was distinct from that of the original ship. One can only wonder whether she would have become such a legend in her own right without that departure from the plan.

Photo Tour of Bermuda; Cunard President Part II; and cruising with Charles Darwin

This time, we have three new items.

First, there is Part II of my interview with Peter Shanks, President and Managing Director of Cunard Line. We began this part of the conversation by talking about the new Cunard ship Queen Elizabeth, which is now in the last phases of construction in Italy. Mr. Shanks talked about the design of the ship, its interior décor and features as well as answered the question whether the ship is actually an ocean liner. The topic then moved to what type of ships Cunard might build after the Queen Elizabeth. Finally, Mr. Shanks talked about Cunard Line’s position in the Carnival Corporation family of companies.

Part II of the interview with Mr. Shanks is posted at: http://www.beyondships.com/Cunard-Shanks-2.html

Second, I had lunch recently with Jorge Rodriguez, the North American representative of Cruceros Australis, which is an expedition cruise line operating at the extreme southern tip of South America. With him was author John Worman, who has written a number of books about Charles Darwin. The topic of the luncheon was two cruises that Cruceros Australis will be offering this fall, which will explore some of the places in Patagonia and Tierra Del Fuego that were visited by Darwin. According to Mr. Worman, Darwin largely formulated his ideas about the origin of species will visiting this still largely pristine area. My article about these cruises is at: http://www.beyondships.com/Cruise-articles-CA-Darwin.html

Third, once again going beyond the ships and onto the shore, I have posted a photo essay on Bermuda from a cruise passenger’s perspective. This little chain of islands in the Atlantic is a frequent cruise destination from a number of North American ports. It was once a tourist destination just for the rich and famous and while there still are quite a few mansions and yachts to be seen around the islands, now the pink sand beaches are enjoyed by the general public. Still the islands have not been ruined by commercialization and maintain a charming lifestyle. The multi-page photo essay begins at: http://www.beyondships.com/Ports-Bermuda-1.html

Talking with the President of Cunard and Reviewing the Steakhouse on Carnival Glory

Cunard Line is perhaps the most famous name in the history of the passenger ship business. Not only has it been carrying passengers across the Atlantic on a regular basis since 1840, but its fleet has included an array of ships that were not only famous in their day but which are still recognized as being great ships - - Mauretania, Lusitania, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2).

Today, Cunard is no longer the biggest name in the passenger business. It fell on hard times during the second half of the 20th Century and really only survived because the QE2 was such a fabulous ship both technologically and in the atmosphere that was created onboard.

In 1997, the cavalry arrived in the form of Carnival Corporation, which has invested heavily in the venerable line; building the largest ocean liner ever built, the Queen Mary 2, and two large cruise ships that are designed to evoke the feel of the great ocean liners. It also re-focused the line. The succession of owners that Cunard had prior to Carnival were never able to decide what to do with Cunard and so the company tried to do mass market cruising, luxury yachts, Norwegian-style cruise ships and various other strategies. Carnival shifted the focus back to the ocean liner experience.

A year ago July, Peter Shanks became the President and Managing Director of Cunard Line. I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Shanks about Cunard at its headquarters when I was in Southampton. Because that conversation produced so much material that I would like to share, I am presenting it in two parts. The first part focuses on Mr. Shanks’ vision for Cunard and what he views as differentiating the onboard experience on the Cunard ships from Cunard’s competitor. It is posted at http://www.beyondships.com/Cunard-Shanks-1.html

In part II, we discussed the new Cunard ship, Queen Elizabeth, which will go into service in October, as well as some thoughts about ships that may follow the Elizabeth. In addition, we talked about Cunard’s position in the Carnival family of companies. Part II will be posted next time.

This week I’ve also posted a restaurant review. For the most part, I have tried to avoid explicitly stating opinions about the various ships on Beyondships. There are a lot of other sites that do feature reviews and which do that very well. Beyondships rather is designed to present information that you can use in making up your mind about the ships.

One area that has not received much attention on the web is the specialty restaurants that are now proliferating across the cruise ship fleets. These are dining venues that are an alternative to the ships’ main dining rooms. They often specialize in one style of food and are intended to be a premium experience over and above the main dining room. There is usually a cover charge for these dining venues.

When I cruise, I usually enjoy a visit to the specialty restaurants. Sometimes I am accompanied by one of the ship officers who I have interviewed who often have a uniquer perspective about the restaurant. Thus, I thought it might be helpful to post some on my experiences.

This time the review is of the Emerald Steakhouse on Carnival Glory. Carnival has a reputation for serving good food. However, it is not usually thought of as a premium cruise line. Thus, the question that comes to mind is can a Carnival ship have a good premium restaurant? Helping me explore this question was Jorge Solano, Cruise Director on the Glory. The review is posted at: http://www.beyondships.com/CarnivalGlory-Review-Emerald.html

Photo Tour of Saga Pearl II and Photos of Saga Ruby

In order to survive in today’s cruise market, small ships have to specialize. Because of their size, they do not have all of the features and options available on the large ships and so they have to focus their efforts in order to attract customers. Some are ultra-luxury, some go to exotic locations that the big ships do not, while others offer longer voyages.

Saga Pearl II specializes in holidays (vacations) for the over 50 set. Not only is there a formal age requirement but the entire concept reflects thinking about what more mature travelers want and need when traveling. This extends from sending a chauffeured car to collect guests and their baggage and bring them to the ship if they live within a certain distance of the embarkation port to having a high percentage of single cabins for guests who may no longer have a partner. The small size of the ship also gives rise to a more intimate atmosphere which facilitates the guests getting to know one another.

Since the ship focuses on seniors, it does not need children’s facilities, rock climbing walls or giant water slides. Consequently, there is more space for facilities like an extensive library.

Saga Pearl II is the latest addition to the Saga Cruises’ fleet. Built in 1981, the ship was completely renovated following its acquisition by Saga. The result is fresh looking interior done in a contemporary understated style.

Beyondships’ profile of Saga Pearl II is at http://www.beyondships.com/Saga-SagaPearl-Profile.html and the multii-page photo tour begins at

In addition, the master of Saga Pearl II, Captain David Warden-Owen, talks about his ship at http://www.beyondships.com/Saga-SagaPearl-Captain.html I first met Captain Warden-Owen when he was Staff Captain on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2. He went over to Saga after that line acquired the Sagafjord from Cunard, which Saga re-named the Saga Rose. Cunard was sorry to lose him as he was a very accomplished officer. His popularity and successful command of Saga Rose for some 12 years until the ship was retired last year underscore his ability.

While we are on the topic of Saga, I have put together a photo essay on Saga’s other ship, the Saga Ruby. Originally, the Vistafjord and later the Coronia for Cunard, this ship was the last classic ocean liner built in Britain. She has pleasing lines and is a pleasure to photograph. This essay shows her in New York and in Newport, Rhode Island last year. It can be found at http://www.beyondships.com/Saga-SagaRuby-Photos.html

Talking wiith John Duffy, Hotel Manager on Cunard's Queen Mary 2

John Duffy has been an eye witness to the transformation of the passenger ship business. He began his career on the original Queen Elizabeth, one of the great ocean liners of all time and a ship that was a household name in her day. He sailed on the first voyage of the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) and served as her hotel manager from 1981 until her last voyage in 2009. Now, he is the hotel manager on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, the largest ocean liner (as opposed to cruise ship) ever built.

Along the way, Duffy has met royalty, heads of state and numerous celebrities. He has received awards for his work and heads up a department that includes some 900 people. Yet, he remains approachable and friendly, not only talking to but listening to passengers.

Having had such a unique career, I asked him to describe what it was like on the various ships that he has sailed on and how they differ from the passenger ships of today.

In addition, having spent so much of his career doing transatlantic crossings, I asked him why people should choose to spend their vacation/holiday on Queen Mary 2, the only ship that still does transatlantic crossings on a regular basis. I also asked him to address some of the concerns that people sometimes express about a crossing.
My conversation with Mr. Duffy can be found at: http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Duffy.html

Photo Essays of Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria

I have just returned from a series of cruises over in Europe. Since the purpose of my trip was to see ships, I decided to go to Europe by ship. Accordingly, I booked two transatlantic voyages on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2.

This turned out to be a quite fortuitous choice. On the day I left for Europe, the volcanic eruptions in Iceland closed down the airways and they remained closed for the better part of a week and it was difficult to get a flight for sometime thereafter. If I had chosen to fly, I would have missed at least the first and maybe more of my European cruises.

In addition to avoiding the difficulties associated with flying these days, QM2 is a delightful experience. There is always something going on. On this particular voyage there was a group of jazz musicians from Julliard both performing and answering questions. There were also talks on politics, history and astronomy given by various professors that were intellectually stimulating. Then there are the dinners and receptions given in the grand style.

When we arrived at the eastern end of the crossing in Southampton, England, we found that Cunard’s Queen Victoria was also in port. Although somewhat smaller than QM2 (90,0000 gross tons vs. 150,000), QV is an impressive ship. She also carries forward the prestige and history of the Cunard Line.

There are many ship enthusiasts living in and around Southampton who come out on a regular basis to see the seemingly ever-growing number of cruise ships that call in Southampton . However, the presence of two Cunard Queens in the port is enough to draw people from all over England. Indeed, Blue Funnel Line, which runs tours of the harbor was able to fill three tour boats with Cunard fans.

It was a beautifully clear but cold day and the air was crystal clear. Consequently, the conditions for photographing the ships were excellent. I have posted a photo essay showing the ships at their berths and then as they got underway. It is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-TwoQueens.html

The return voyage westbound across the Atlantic a month later also had a special ending. Due to an accident involving another ship, the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal where QM2 usually docks could not accommodate the great ocean liner. As a result, midway across the Atlantic it was announced that QM2 would be docking at Pier 90 in Manhattan rather than in Brooklyn.

This caused a frenzy of activity as Cunard employees both onshore and on the ship worked to avoid any inconvenience to passengers that could have resulted due to the change in destination. However, it also caused enthusiastic expectations amongst the passengers.

Most of the great ocean liners of the past docked in Manhattan. Indeed, for some four decades, when she came to New York, Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) docked at the very pier that QM2 would be docking at.

Aside from history, docking in Manhattan requires a ship to sail up the Hudson River as the world famous New York skyline unfolds in spectacular fashion. As it turned out, it was a clear Spring day and the soft light of dawn colored the City as QM2 made her way to her berth.

I have put together a photo essay which shows some of the sights that the passengers experienced on this unforgettable journey. http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-Manhattan.html

Cruising to Halifax and other cruise news items

With Spring coming and summer not far behind, people are beginning to think about summer cruises. One popular option is a cruise to Eastern Canada and New England. A highlight of most such cruises is a call in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Accordingly, this week we are presenting an illustrated look at Halifax from a cruiser passenger perspective.

Why do people cruise to Halifax? For many, it is a convenient way to escape the summer heat that often grips the United States. In the fall, there is the promise of seeing the color of the changing autumn leaves.

Halifax offers both historic and scenic attractions. The area played an important role in the North American colonial period and in the American War for Independence and the years following. It also has significant ties to the Titanic disaster as the recovery efforts were launched from Halifax. All of these are documented in museums and restorations.

As far as scenery, Halifax itself is a small, clean city that surrounds a pretty harbor. There are both modern and historic buildings. Going outside of town, which many cruise passengers do, one is quickly in an area of forests, lakes and rocky coastlines. In places such as Peggy’s Cove, it looks like an idealized maritime landscape painting.

Halifax is famous for its seafood, in particular, lobster. Not surprisingly, there are quite a few restaurants specializing in lobster.

Beyondships’ illustrated look at Halifax is at http://www.beyondships.com/Ports-Halifax

Turning to some items in the news - -

Last week, Celebrity Eclipse left the shipyard in Pappenburg, Germany where she has been under construction and proceeded down the Ems River to Emshaven in the Netherlands. What is particularly noteworthy about this journey is that at its tightest point, there was only two feet of clearance between the ship and the sides of the river and a few inches of water between her bottom and the riverbed. Thousands of spectators turned out to watch the ship’s progress. After completing her fitting out in Emshaven, Eclipse will proceed to Southampton, England for her inaugural ceremonies in late April. She will be based there for her first season offering cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, France and Ireland.

Cunard has announced its 2011-12 offerings. Queen Mary 2 will continue to offer transatlantic crossings and cruises from New York to Canada and the Caribbean and from Southampton to the Atlantic isles and Northern Europe. Queen Victoria will offer cruises from Southampton and from Venice Italy before coming to the US for a series of cruises in the late fall/winter. The new Queen Elizabeth will cruise primarily from Southampton. Included in her schedule will be cruises to the Holyland.

Meanwhile, Princess cruises has announced its 2011 European schedule with seven vessels (Ruby, Crown, Grand, Star, Ocean, Pacific and Emerald Princesses) offering 42 itinerary choices, including seven new routes, with calls at more than 135 ports.

Norwegian Cruise Line has commenced a contest to find the “Epic Star.” Winners will perform on the line’s new ship Norwegian Epic during her inaugural ceremonies in July in New York.. It has also announced that in the winter 2011/2012, Norwegian Star will be based in Tampa, Florida, which is a new seasonal homeport for her.

Carnival Glory has returned to service following an extensive refit. The renovation added several new facilities and features, including a Serenity adults-only retreat, a 270-square-foot Seaside Theatre poolside LED screen, and a Circle “C” facility for 12- to 14- year olds. Eighteen new balconies were also incorporated onto existing ocean view staterooms and a new Mongolian wok venue was added to the casual poolside restaurant. Bow-to-stern Wi-Fi access was added, as well.

Celebrity Summit Photo Tour and other cruise news

This week, we take a look at Celebrity Summit. Summit is one of four ships built in France for Celebrity in the early years of this millennium. Indeed, the lead ship in the class was the Millennium and the four are collectively referred to as the Millennium-class. They were technologically advanced with gas turbine engines and azipod propulsion systems. However, what is of primary concern to most guests is their distinctive interiors.

When one steps aboard a Millennium class ship, one is transported into a refined world. The décor is contemporary, understated and subtle. The art work is interesting but unobtrusive. The lighting is subtle. It is definitely an upscale experience.

His is also reflected in how the ship is operated. The service is friendly and attentive. With the Celebrity Life onboard programming, there are activities to interest the mind, body and palette. While there is a dress code, it balances formality with the need to relax while on vacation.

Summit is very similar to her younger sister Constellation. The most apparent difference is in the specialty restaurant. On Summit, the restaurant is an ode to the great French ocean liner Normandie. This tribute carries over to the main dining room which is dominated by a statue that once was on the Normandie.

Beyondships profile of Summit appears at http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Summit-Profile.html and the photo tour and commentary begins at http://www.beyondships.com/Celebrity-Summit-Tour-1.html

Next week, we shall also be adding an interview in which hotel director Julien Brackenberry talks about the ship.

Turning to other news . . . .

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the parent company of Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International, has announced that it will be sending over $1 million in aid to the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The Royal Caribbean ships call in Haiti on a regular basis, at the company’s private beach resort Labade. The company says that its ships will continue to call there, which will provide additional money to the Haitian economy. Royal also says that the net revenue from those calls will go to earthquake relief.

Cunard has announced that it is partnering with New York’s Julliard School of Music to have jazz performances by students and faculty of the school on select transatlantic crossings on Queen Mary 2 during 2010. Speaking of QM2, Beyondships will be featuring an interview with QM2 Captain Nick Bates in the not too distant future.

Speaking of partnerships, NCL has announced that it has partnered with Nickelodeon to have Nickelodeon-themed family entertainment programming on Norwegian Jewel starting this April and on Norwegian Epic starting in June.

Norwegian Epic will also be offering its studio cabins without a single supplement. These cabins will have approximately 100 square feet of space with a full size bed. There will also be a separate area for the bathroom. The studio cabins will open out into a studio lounge, which will be shared by passengers in other studio cabins.

The beginning of the year marks the cruise industry’s “wave season” and many of the lines are running sales and promotions. For example, Princess Cruises has a “Balcony Bonanza” in which guests can have a balcony cabin for the price of an oceanview stateroom. Along the same lines, Cunard has announced discounts on Queen Victoria’s long Mediterranean cruises in the Fall of 2010.

Queen Mary 2 Photo Tour and Other Cruise News

I recently completed my 18th voyage on Queen Mary 2. In part, all of these voyages are the result of the fact that QM2 goes to a variety of places. Not only does she do transatlantic crossings but she cruises to Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Norway, Germany, and to other places. In other words, one voyage on QM2 is not going to be exactly like the one before it and the one after.

Another factor that I like about QM2 is her nautical properties. She was designed to cross the North Atlantic and during the design process simulations were done to test her against the worst Atlantic storms on record. As a result, even though she towers over the water, she is remarkably stable in bad weather. Even with waves washing over the dining room windows some 30 feet above the waterline, I have noticed that most of the passengers are out and about in the public rooms. She also manages to plow through the waves at a good speed even when other ships are heaved to.

The third factor that draws me back to QM2 is the atmosphere. The programming onboard tends toward the cultural and the intellectual. Thus, she is stimulating as well as relaxing. There is also the sophistication of the bars and restaurants as well as the traditional formal receptions. While I enjoy the less formal ships as well, QM2’s style is more closely attuned to my personality.

One result of all this is that the QM2 section of Beyondships is one of the largest on the site. I have done interviews with several of her captains, senior officers and managers in an attempt to give people a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of this historic ship. In addition, there are pages of photos, menus, daily programmes and other information. At about this time last year, I updated the section to reflect some of the additional information that I had accumulated over that year. So too, I have done an extensive update of the QM2 pages on the site this year adding dozens of new photos and information collected this year.

The QM2 section of the site is at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2.html
and the photo tour begins at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2tour1.html

Turning to other items in the news. . . .

Celebrity has announced that the name of the fourth ship in its Solstice class will be Celebrity Silhouette. These are beautiful ships. I was recently on the second ship of the class, Celebrity Equinox, and was impressed by the grace of her contemporary design. In addition, Celebrity has created numerous options for guests to choose from in the activities and in the dining. The third ship in the class, Celebrity Eclipse, is being built at the Meyer Werft yard in Pappenberg, Germany and is scheduled to enter service in April 2010.

Speaking of new-builds, the Silver Spirit of Silversea Cruises entered service on 23 December. The ship is aimed at the luxury end of the market, carrying just 540 passengers. This is the line’s first new ship in several years and while a small ship, 36,000 gross tons, she is considerably larger than the other ships in the Silver sea fleet.

Queen Mary 2 - - Behind-the-scenes looks at Entertainment and Dining

This week, Beyondships continues its behind-the-scenes look at the workings of Queen Mary 2 with two interviews.

The first is with Entertainment Director Paul O’Loughlin. Paul is relatively new to QM2 but is no novice to the world of cruise ship programming. He has been a cruise director for 30 years on some 27 ships including many of the major P&O and Princess ships. Considering the prestige of Queen Mary 2, one would expect that anyone assuming such an important would be highly qualified.

The Entertainment Director is in charge of the programming for the ship - - all of the entertainment including production shows, musicians, movies, and visiting entertainers as well as all of the activities ranging from guest lecturers to trivia contests. He also acts as the primary interface between the passengers and the ship’s management, introducing performers, hosting parties and receptions and appearing on the onboard television. It is a highly visible position.

On most ships, this position is called cruise director. However, considering the type of experience that Cunard seeks to present with Queen Mary 2 that title does not really seem appropriate. Indeed, having sailed with Paul on Emerald Princess, which is a very nice up-market cruise ship, I can see a difference between what he did there and what he does on QM2.

My conversation with Paul is posted at http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Oloughlin.html

The second interview posted this week is with Jamie Firth, the maitre d’ hotel of the Britannia Restaurant on QM2. Cunard regulars will remember Jamie from Queen Elizabeth 2 where he was a mainstay in the restaurant operation for years.

Jamie is in charge of the largest and most spectacular dining room on QM2. Since he is a very articulate person, I thought it would be good if he described the dining system on Queen Mary 2, the Britannia Restaurant’s place in that system and the mechanics of the restaurant’s operation. Accordingly, Jamie talks about what the restaurant is all about and such topics as how tables are assigned, the various duties of the restaurant staff (more than one would think) and what happens after a passenger gives his or her order to a waiter.

My interview with Jamie Firth appears at: http://www.beyondships.com/QM2-art-Firth.html

Cunard also featured in the cruise ship news this week. On 23 November, the name Queen Elizabeth was welded onto the new Cunarder now being built by Fincantieri near Trieste in Italy. The new ship will join the Cunard fleet in October 2010. Meanwhile, Cunard came in first in the large cruise line category ahead of 22 other lines in a survey of travelers conducted by Zaggat’s.

Another Fincantieri ship, the Costa Deliziosa (92,600-tons) successfully completed her sea trials on 15 November. She is currently being fitted out at Fincantieri’s Marghera (Venice) shipyard and will be delivered on January 29, 2010.

While much attention was being paid to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas’s arrival in the United States, her sister ship Allure of the Seas was floated out of her building dock at the STX shipyard in Turku, Finland.

Tahitian Princess is currently in drydock in Singapore being transformed into the Ocean Princess. Progress on the transformation can be followed on the Princess.com website.

Also in drydock, is Holland America’s flagship Rotterdam. I was able to take the attached photo of her during a port call in Freeport, Grand Bahamas last week.

The call in Freeport was on the new Carnival Dream. The Dream, sailing out of New York, was making the same port calls as fleetmate Carnival Pride, which was sailing out of Baltimore. As a result, the two ships formed a Fun Ship Flotilla, which included the two ships maneuvering closely around each other at sea in a similar fashion as when Queen Mary 2 and QE2 made tandem crossings. Dream was also accompanied for a time by the newly-commissioned USS New York (LPD 21).

NCL’s Norwegian Dawn experienced a power failure during a Caribbean cruise, which made her divert to San Juan, Puerto Rico for repairs rather than return to Miami where the cruise had begun. Dawn’s next cruise also had to be cancelled.