Trip Reports
15 December
Setting sail from Southampton
Southampton is the UK's leading port. Bustling modern cruise terminals, as well as wharfs and commercial harbours, line the waterfront, whilst the city itself is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, with a picturesque old town, the original city walls still standing, and super-modern shopping centres and office complexes. On all corners you will see tributes to the city's rich history and maritime heritage. Henry V marched his troops through the Westgate on his way to the battle of Agincourt, The Mayflower sailed from here with a cargo of settlers to the New World, and the Titanic started her fateful voyage here.
Don't miss
Just a short drive from Southampton is the magical New Forest with its quaint hamlets, historic towns and seaside villages. Look out for the ponies too.
16-21 December
At sea
22 December
United States: New York
The Big Apple is one of the world’s most iconic, cosmopolitan cities, a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. From the lofty heights of the Manhattan skyscrapers to the hipster hangouts of resurgent Brooklyn, New York City buzzes with energy and excitement, and there’s never been a better time to visit.
23-25 December
At sea
26 December
U.S. Virgin Islands: St Thomas
The busiest and most developed of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is nevertheless blessed with typically Caribbean good looks. The main town, Charlotte Amalie, is situated on a perfect natural harbour, and in its colonial heyday its warehouses were filled with indigo, tobacco and cotton.
27 December
Saint Kitts and Nevis: Saint Kitts
Laid back and low key, Saint Kitts is an island typified by rolling green hills, characterful beach bars and the lingering remnants of the sugar cane trade that once dominated here. Attractions include the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill fortress, the 18-mile Scenic Railway and the faded Georgian elegance of the capital, Basseterre.
28 December
Antigua and Barbuda: English Harbour
29 December
Sint Maarten: Philipsburg
Philipsburg is the gateway to an intriguing little Caribbean island with a dual personality: the Dutch side, St. Maarten, is the livelier of the two, with shopping malls, casinos and more of a nightlife scene, while French-speaking St. Martin is a more refined (and more expensive) affair, with a laid-back, continental air and a host of exclusive resorts and restaurants.
30 December
British Virgin Islands: Tortola
Tortola is the largest and most populous of the British Virgin Islands, and the bustling port at Road Town is a magnet for sailors from around the world. The island is blessed with some gorgeous beaches and secluded coves, and it’s a great place for a spot of snorkelling.
31 December - 2 January
At sea
3 January
Arriving in New York
The Big Apple is one of the world's most iconic, cosmopolitan cities, a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. From the lofty heights of the Manhattan skyscrapers to the hipster hangouts of resurgent Brooklyn, New York City buzzes with energy and excitement, and there's never been a better time to visit. Cultural highlights include the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts and the theatres of Broadway, and the culinary scene is arguably the most exciting in the US, with an ever-changing smorgasbord of innovative restaurants, pop-ups and fashionable street food trucks.
Our tip
Head to the ‘Top of the Rock’ at the Rockefeller Centre, for views rivalling those at from the observation platform of the Empire State Building, but without the crowds.
Your home from home
Queen Mary 2 is Cunard’s most magnificent ocean liner and the flagship of the fleet.
What we love
Modern features combined with traditional and elegant décor reminiscent of the golden age of cruising helps create an unforgettable journey particularly when sailing past the Statue of Liberty into New York. We particularly like the excellent Queens Grill accommodation which offers additional space and access to the exclusive Queens Grill restaurant, along with dedicated lounges and deck areas.
| Capacity | 2,691 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1,253 International Staff |
| Style | Traditionally formal cruising with the evening attire always expected to be refined even on 'informal' evenings. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Overnight in Southampton
Stay at the Pig in the Wall, stylish with great food. Very small so book early.
Day trips from Southampton
Visit historic Winchester, home to King Arthur’s Round Table, the Great Hall and Winchester Cathedral.
Stay a few more nights in New York
There are just so many hotels to choose from, but we recommend The Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue next to Central Park.
See New York in style
Take to the air on a helicopter sightseeing trip of Manhattan Island, the best way to see the city’s skyline.
