Mr and Mrs A

QE436 Sydney to Tasmania to Sydney 16 Dec to 23rd Dec 2024 17th Dec: Black and White 21st Dec: Masquerade All other nights: Smart Attire Thanks Blue Marble for doing this.

I've just noticed that on Queen Elizabeth our Jan 25th Gala theme has changed from Masquerade to Burn's Night (hooray!) What does Burn's Night in MDR on QE usually look like? Piping in the haggis? Poetry while we eat? Do many passengers engage with the theme?

Thanks all - useful replies. What about an umbrella? Are there ship's umbrellas we can borrow for excursions?

Meant to say we're on Queen Elizabeth.

We are off this weekend for our first cruise. I won't take my Chromebook unless it's absolutely necessary, as I presume there are on-board computers to use if I need to book some internet time? There are Gideon's Bibles in each room? I could ask for a used pack of casino cards at the casino or purser's desk?

Is afternoon tea served on embarkation day?

I believe balcony cabins are larger than oceanview.

We'll be cruising up the coast from Sydney to Port Douglas (and back) in the last two weeks of January 2024. I'm really hoping to try lots of fresh yummy Australian fruit - particularly tropical fruits. What can I expect to be available at that time of year? Do the supermarkets have a good range available? Lastly, can we take store bought fruit back on-board?

Yes, helpful thanks - and it seems that it although we could get by with our debit cards only - it's just not worth the stress. I've applied for a credit card from our bank. We'll only use it for pre-authorisations and emergencies. Really like the sound of the Wise account, it'll be useful for sticking to our holiday cash budget - I think that we'll get one of those too. Mrs A

Thanks Lissie - very helpful answer!

We have always tried to avoid consumer debt and we don't own any credit cards. We do have Mastercard debit cards attached to our everyday bank accounts. Debit cards have always been sufficient for us, ours have all the facilities of a Mastercard, Visa or Amex - we just prefer spending our own money rather than borrowing from the bank. My understanding is that we will have to give our card details to be linked to our room account, so is it a practical option to use our debit cards? Has anyone had experience of doing this? Or should I bite the bullet and apply for a credit card? Thanks all, Mrs A

Silent Disco - is that the weird thing with the glow-in-the-dark headphones? Does everyone listen to the same music?

Premium Economy does sound nice - enjoy your trip

10kgs - lucky you! It's 7kgs on Air New Zealand.

I absolutely agree

Will do, thanks.

Thanks.

I'd love to do a BST when we go on QE. Can it be booked in advance, or do we have to book when we're onboard?

You Only Live Twice. Though Sean Connery does wear a black suit and tie - which would be perfectly acceptable for any Gala Night.

Hope it's not too early to start this topic, but if anyone is interested... QE - (Queensland 10 nights - 22nd Jan to 1st Feb) Gala nights: Jan 23 Black and White Jan 25 Masquerade Jan 30 Red and Gold Smart Attire for the rest of this cruise

Oh, I thought there was a USB port on the telly. We were planning on using that to charge his phone.

I thought I might feel a little panicky in an inside cabin, so I've made sure to book a balcony. I'm also hoping we don't get too much movement where we are going to be (it's near the rear lift bank for easy access to Britannia restaurant, as hubby has limited mobility). I do like the spaciousness of some of the interior cabins and the squarer shape. If I struggle with the heat on this cruise, then an interior might be something to seriously consider for the next one. The price is certainly better!

Thanks everyone for your advice. We've booked the starboard side. Very excited!

Our first ever cruise. We're sailing on QE for 10 nights Sydney to Port Douglas and back, 22nd Jan 2024. I want to choose either 4141 or 4146 (both BC, same position near the rear lifts - just opposite sides). I like the (slightly) longer cabin space and the deeper balcony. Should we go for port or starboard? Do people generally enjoy sunsets on their balconies or breakfast in the sun? I imagine it will be hot and humid at that time of year, so maybe starboard would be more shady and therefore more pleasant during the day. What about the views sailing out of Sydney Harbour? All comments and ideas appreciated! Mrs A.