Captain McNaught Moves On

[southwestie]

Probably because he is currently on board QV isn't he?

 

 

Gavboy is posting,:):) everyday, he is having a wonderful time,

[Captain Rhone]

Ian left QV on November 23rd. Paul Wright is in command...

[cunardqueen]

I'm sure you've found it already, but in case you have not, Rob Lightbody has an excellent site on the QE2:

 

http://www.theqe2story.com/

 

 

Highly recommended and none of the crap that goes on with this board...

members banned, postings deleted,blocked access:rolleyes:... need l carry on

 

In fact this site Cruisecritic just aint what it used to be:(:(:( which does sadden me.

[Richard Schmidt]

I came across a fairly recent interview with Captain McNaught looking back at his time with Cunard, which I thought was interesting. http://www.beyondships.com/QV-McNaught-2.html I wish him well.

 

Thank you for providing this link. I look forward to reading this.

[maritimemaven]

In short in matters mineral, animal or vegetable, Ian McNaught is the very model of the great iconic Cunard Captains of whom legends are told. A twist on Gilbert & Sullivan but so very true nevertheless. Captain McNaught, like the ship he was Master of, is a one-of-a-kind, revered and respected by crew and passengers alike at all levels. Former QE2 crew now serving onboard QM2 & QV refer to him with eyes glistening and warm smiles of fond remembrance. Whenever he sat outside the library portside signing books and Cunard materials, the queue always extended up portside,across the ship in front of the Caronia restaurant, and then down starboard the entire length of the ship to the Lido, and the Captain always smiled, and cheerfully inscribed away. His smile in pictures was always genuine and sincere, never a corporate paste-on. His announcements after a day ashore on an excursion were always entertaining and always welcomed us back to what felt like our home, where we all belonged. His mid-day ship announcements were gems and stopped us in our tracks so we could listen attentively. We are looking on various boards for last minute bargain fares onboard his new ship so we can again have the pleasure of sailing with him. Godspeed and smooth sailing Captain, you are greatly missed but not forgotten. Thank you for so many wonderful trips we shall forever cherish and remember because of you. Ernie & Pascale

[Slipper of the Yard]

In short in matters mineral, animal or vegetable, Ian McNaught is the very model of the great iconic Cunard Captains of whom legends are told. A twist on Gilbert & Sullivan but so very true nevertheless. Captain McNaught, like the ship he was Master of, is a one-of-a-kind, revered and respected by crew and passengers alike at all levels. Former QE2 crew now serving onboard QM2 & QV refer to him with eyes glistening and warm smiles of fond remembrance. Whenever he sat outside the library portside signing books and Cunard materials, the queue always extended up portside,across the ship in front of the Caronia restaurant, and then down starboard the entire length of the ship to the Lido, and the Captain always smiled, and cheerfully inscribed away. His smile in pictures was always genuine and sincere, never a corporate paste-on. His announcements after a day ashore on an excursion were always entertaining and always welcomed us back to what felt like our home, where we all belonged. His mid-day ship announcements were gems and stopped us in our tracks so we could listen attentively. We are looking on various boards for last minute bargain fares onboard his new ship so we can again have the pleasure of sailing with him. Godspeed and smooth sailing Captain, you are greatly missed but not forgotten. Thank you for so many wonderful trips we shall forever cherish and remember because of you. Ernie & Pascale

 

Not Jules as well?

[Martita B.]

Ernie & Pascale

Come join us on the Seabourn Spirit TA Crossing March 19th!

Ft Laud to Lisbon ~~your Cunard Captain Ian McNaught will be at the helm ~~! He joined the Spirit in South America a couple of weeks ago. Of course, we are pleased and happy to have him ~

Would love for you to join us ~~

Martita B.

[searainbow]

I don't think I can say any more eloquently than Richard Schmidt how much Captain McNaught meant--and means-- to those of us who sailed on QE2 under his command. Captain McNaught not only ran QE2 magnificently, but was sincerely interested in all of his passengers, and got a great kick out of us ocean liner lovers, winter crossers, collectors, with all our passion and yes, eccentricities. With wit, diplomacy, caring, and great attention to his passengers, he made each crossing such a special event. What was clearly in evidence was his effect on all the crew--what a happy ship when Captain McNaught was on board!

 

Once, when I had to leave my luggage on shore at Red Hook and return to the QE2 for a luncheon for John Maxtone-Graham, it was Captain McNaught who cleared all the red tape and made it possible. That is only one example of the many ways in which he made each passenger feel special and cared for.

 

He was, and is, a shining credit to Cunard in all respects, and I wish him the very best of luck with Seabourn (how lucky they are to have him!). Now, if only my piggy bank would cough up a Seabourn fare...

 

Missing QE2, and Captain McNaught, always.

 

Sheila Browne

[Martita B.]

Shelia

I have made a note of your name and will give Captain McNaught your best when I sail with him in March. I know he'll be pleased!

Please do check the Seabourn TA Crossing rates.....affordable!

Come join us!

Martita B.

[Richard Schmidt]

It is given to few men to know in their lifetimes their place in history. Though he is too humble to think it, it is my opinion Captain McNaught will be remembered as both the last and the best master of the last true transatlantic express liner. QE 2's retirement, and McNaught's departure from Cunard mark the end of the great adventure that began in 1840 when Brittania first sailed from Liverpool to Halifax and Boston. The remarkable history of the triumphs and tragedies of the men and ships that braved the North Atlantic on the great circle route is now complete. McNaught and his ship, QE2, have written the final pages of it's final chapter.

[dc-farer]

It is given to few men to know in their lifetimes their place in history. Though he is too humble to think it, it is my opinion Captain McNaught will be remembered as both the last and the best master of the last true transatlantic express liner. QE 2's retirement, and McNaught's departure from Cunard mark the end of the great adventure that began in 1840 when Brittania first sailed from Liverpool to Halifax and Boston. The remarkable history of the triumphs and tragedies of the men and ships that braved the North Atlantic on the great circle route is now complete. McNaught and his ship, QE2, have written the final pages of it's final chapter.

 

No disrespect intended, but I have difficulty in understanding all of this hero worship of Capt. McNaught. I sailed with him on the final transatlantic of the QE2. I was one of those who waited in line for him to sign my book, and he was unsmiling and in bad temper throughout, grumbling and frowning at passengers as they approached him. I also attended a cocktail party in his quarters and he actually yelled at me and several other passengers who dared to arrive a few minutes early for the function -- telling us to "get out -- we are not ready for you yet!"

 

I am sure that those of you who hold him in such high regard had different (and far more positive) experiences than my own. But really, I think that, in your laments about his departure, you do a tremendous disservice to the other very fine captains of Cunard who, in my experience and estimation, are far more professional and amiable than Captain McNaught. I must say that, after 30+ cruises on Cunard and Princess, Captain McNaught ranks at the very bottom of my list of favorite captains.

[searainbow]

Hi Martita, and thank you for saying hello to Captain McNaught in March. I hope someday to sail with him again, and sooner rather than later.

Enjoy this transatlantic. It sounds terrific.

 

Sheila

[Seachase20]

No disrespect intended, but I have difficulty in understanding all of this hero worship of Capt. McNaught. I sailed with him on the final transatlantic of the QE2. I was one of those who waited in line for him to sign my book, and he was unsmiling and in bad temper throughout, grumbling and frowning at passengers as they approached him. I also attended a cocktail party in his quarters and he actually yelled at me and several other passengers who dared to arrive a few minutes early for the function -- telling us to "get out -- we are not ready for you yet!"

 

I am sure that those of you who hold him in such high regard had different (and far more positive) experiences than my own. But really, I think that, in your laments about his departure, you do a tremendous disservice to the other very fine captains of Cunard who, in my experience and estimation, are far more professional and amiable than Captain McNaught. I must say that, after 30+ cruises on Cunard and Princess, Captain McNaught ranks at the very bottom of my list of favorite captains.

 

I'm sorry your experience of sailing with Capt McNaught was so negative. And indeed I do rather squirm at such blatant hero-worship as we sometimes read on this board. However, the fact remains he IS held in very high esteem, and in my view quite rightly so. I think what we all need to remember is that the job of captain has now evolved into a far more social one that in days gone by, and many of today's captains didn't go to sea to chat up the passengers but to sail ships. Also it would perhaps be fair to Capt. McNaught to remember first, he is like all of us, subject to bad moods on occasion, but more than that, that last voyage must have been very difficult for him, as it was for all those who had sailed onboard QE2 as crew for many, many years, and for whom she had been, for those years, home from home. It's enough to make anyone snarl. And you know, with respect, it's considered bad manners to turn up early for a party, and while I don't excuse the captain's bad manners in shouting at the early arrivals, I do sympathize with him. You interrupted those few precious minutes of relaxation before he and his officers had to turn on the charm and chat up the passengers once again!

[Selfloadingcargo]

Enough!!!!!! Please leave the poor man to get on with his career...

[thranite]

Enough!!!!!! Please leave the poor man to get on with his career...

 

Hear, hear!

 

:)

[sw18]

Hear, hear!

 

:)

 

Well said both of you! :D

 

He's probably quite glad to be going back to the "socialist" style of cruising where everyone gets to eat with the Captain if they wish - on Sea Goddess/Sea Dream YC (one of Captain McN's early positions) if you haven't dined with the Captain, then you have "opted out".

 

Personally, I would be quite relieved to have the stalkers off my back :rolleyes:, and the top end of the market is where the expansion is at (Odyssey, Sojourn, Silver Spirit, Marina etc etc), quite an exciting place to be as a Captain I'd imagine.

[maritimemaven]

Thanks Martita for your warm and friendly post. We'd love to join you but have QM2 Labour Day, then QE Canaries in October, finally QE maiden transat in January. From time to time I have to show up at the office lest they forget who I am. 2011 will be our maiden Seabourn crossing. Have a wonderful crossing and please do remember us to Captain MCNaught. You are fortunate to have a nice ship, a wonderful transat route and a great Captain! Pascale & Ernie

[Cruiser765]

Enough!!!!!! Please leave the poor man to get on with his career...

 

 

Absolutely spot on.

 

Jackie :)

[dc-farer]

I'm sorry your experience of sailing with Capt McNaught was so negative. And indeed I do rather squirm at such blatant hero-worship as we sometimes read on this board. However, the fact remains he IS held in very high esteem, and in my view quite rightly so. I think what we all need to remember is that the job of captain has now evolved into a far more social one that in days gone by, and many of today's captains didn't go to sea to chat up the passengers but to sail ships. Also it would perhaps be fair to Capt. McNaught to remember first, he is like all of us, subject to bad moods on occasion, but more than that, that last voyage must have been very difficult for him, as it was for all those who had sailed onboard QE2 as crew for many, many years, and for whom she had been, for those years, home from home. It's enough to make anyone snarl. And you know, with respect, it's considered bad manners to turn up early for a party, and while I don't excuse the captain's bad manners in shouting at the early arrivals, I do sympathize with him. You interrupted those few precious minutes of relaxation before he and his officers had to turn on the charm and chat up the passengers once again!

 

It was just two or three minutes before the appointed time. Defend him if you feel you must, but I've never witnessed such rude behavior by any Captain.

 

That said, I agree with the others who feel there's been enough discussion of Captain McNaught and that it's time to move on...just as he has done.

[cunardqueen]

It was just two or three minutes before the appointed time. Defend him if you feel you must, but I've never witnessed such rude behavior by any Captain.

 

As any person will tell you in the catering industry if the appointed time is 7.30 for a cocktail party then its 7.30 NOT before:mad:, even if, its as you say its 2 minutes.To turn up before hand is just plain rude and does the person no favours at all. The bar staff are in all likely hood just in the very final stages of getting everything as it should be, the host is probably enjoying a few moments of calm.

 

Much as though lm a easy going person behind the bar, If anyone turns up before the appointed time the charm:eek:,wit:o and easy going nature:rolleyes: hasnt been switched on yet, You will get the drink, but it wont be served with a flourish and probably not even ice, but you will get it.

 

As with any cabin party lv hosted onboard, the instructions are clear, be as late as you want, But please dont come early, l will probably be in the final thows of putting the face on, And as the stroke of the appointed hour is reached,the switch is pressed, lm turned on, the cabin door will be flung open you will be warmly received, the drink pressed into your hands, and everyone will positively shine..

But please dont come early....;) And l like to think everyone left with a smile on their faces...

[dc-farer]

As any person will tell you in the catering industry if the appointed time is 7.30 for a cocktail party then its 7.30 NOT before:mad:, even if, its as you say its 2 minutes.To turn up before hand is just plain rude and does the person no favours at all. The bar staff are in all likely hood just in the very final stages of getting everything as it should be, the host is probably enjoying a few moments of calm.

 

Much as though lm a easy going person behind the bar, If anyone turns up before the appointed time the charm:eek:,wit:o and easy going nature:rolleyes: hasnt been switched on yet, You will get the drink, but it wont be served with a flourish and probably not even ice, but you will get it.

 

As with any cabin party lv hosted onboard, the instructions are clear, be as late as you want, But please dont come early, l will probably be in the final thows of putting the face on, And as the stroke of the appointed hour is reached,the switch is pressed, lm turned on, the cabin door will be flung open you will be warmly received, the drink pressed into your hands, and everyone will positively shine..

But please dont come early....;) And l like to think everyone left with a smile on their faces...

 

In my case, I followed the instructions on the invitation and had my room steward (who came to collect me five minutes before the party) show me to the Captain's quarters. He was unfortunately the one who got the brunt of the Captain's anger and I felt badly for him and for the others who made the same mistake of appearing a couple minutes early in the hallway outside his quarters. The door to his quarters was wide open and yes, there were several people bustling about inside trying to finish preparations. I don't disparage the Captain for asking us to wait for a few minutes. It was the manner in which he did so that was totally inappropriate. For you to say that we were the rude ones, not the Captain, is just plain silly.

[cunardqueen]

For you to say that we were the rude ones, not the Captain, is just plain silly.

 

Did l say you were rude? Maybe its just me but l would never dream of turning up early. As you say perhaps he could have handled the situation better, But he didnt....

[mitchships]

Good Luck to a favorite Captain of many of Cunarders. Ian McNaught's natural charm and grace, especially within his position, is a sincere gift that he generously shares with his passengers and crew. Hoping his career will sail on for a long voyage

[DevonMScott]

The role of Captain aboard a proper ocean liner was always more than just being Master of the vessel. Passengers were aware of the responsibility held by the Captain and always somewhat in awe of a man willing to accept it. Then there was the matter of his ability, not only to conquer the sea but to wrangle his massive charge into often narrow berths upon completion of the feat.

 

Much more than being an adept seaman, though, the Captains of the Golden Age of liners were expected to play an important role with the passengers. It was important to let them know they were in good hands, but it was also answering a call from those wishing to socialize with the man at the top.

 

What a combination to seek... an able man of the sea, more than a mere sailor, who is also a man of social grace and good humor. Not all, of course, excelled at the added responsibility of "host".

 

Captain McNaught is the finest example of this rare breed. I had the distinct pleasure of sailing with him on the final westbound of the QE2. It was certainly an honor.

 

Cunard has, if you will pardon the pun, "missed the boat". I can think of no better master for the QM2 than a man who understands the ambience that ship was created to capture.

 

I'm certain he will be a favorite among the guests aboard the ships he will now serve aboard. But there will be passengers aboard Cunard's liner who will always wish Captain McNaught was onboard.

 

Fair winds and following seas!

 

All the best,

Devon M. Scott

Former Historian for SS Norway

Director, SS United States Trust

[cruisegal101]

Enough!!!!!! Please leave the poor man to get on with his career...

 

 

Whew, I so agree. 'Nuff said!