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Off to the Caribbean on QV, ...again


LadyL1
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Tuesday 4th December, gives us a force 4 on a beautiful day. Very breezy across the decks but it is so warm! Early morning swim was a lone affair 😊 because of the movement of the water in the aft pool. I probably gave some of the al fresco breakfast takers amusement while they ate.
This morning we went to Bill Miller’s first lecture of 7, and although we have seen him before, he is a great speaker. He is a professional and also an author of dozens of books, ocean liners being his specialist subject.
Lunch in the lido was an unexpected treat, being a seafood fest. Lobsters and claws  in abundance, together with green lip mussels, crayfish, prawns and other delights.
This evening we made one of our rare visits to the theatre as Roy Locke was the headliner. Certainly worth the effort and so nice that it was able to sing to a packed audience for both of his performances!
 
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41 minutes ago, LadyL1 said:

We went to a most fabulous restaurant (Jackie O’s) at Lovebeach, just past Darkwood beach. It took about 30 minutes in a taxi.

Were you docked in St. John's?

 

@GillCC, note that QM2 will anchor off English Harbour (weather permitting for tendering).

 

Actually, it looks like Jacqui O's is about midway between English Harbour and St. John's.

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On 11/29/2018 at 12:12 AM, jeno said:

Enjoying your review, thank you!  

How do you sign up for the specialty meals in the Lido at night? Is it hard to get a reservation? 

Looking forward to hearing more about your cruise! 

Sorry, I missed your question. Quite easy to book in the Lido, although it seems popular. Just see the M’d on duty in the evening (or during the day).

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This morning we were all awoken by the call for medical team and fire crew from the officer on watch! The time just before 7.00am. Fortunately within a few minutes Cptn. Love made an announcement (in all cabins) that there had been a small fire in the galley on port side, but there had been no casualties. No going back to sleep after this disturbance, and it was a matter of waiting for room service breakfast.
Our second full sea day on our way home, and the ocean has been very kind; 
A busy day was in prospect, with Henry Blofeld giving his first lecture preceded by Bill Miller, both larger than life characters! At the beginning of this voyage I was asked in the fashion store if I would model in the fashion parade that was held today. Well, there is a first time for everything, but it transpired that it clashed with “Blowers” first lecture😫. I was second on the catwalk, after which my husband made a hasty retreat to the theatre. Two of the crew took part, and also a lady who was blind, being helped by the shop staff. It was wonderful for the appreciation shown to her by the “models” and audience alike.
I needed a dip in the pool after that, and both water and air temperature were cooler today, but plenty of sunbathers around, but not necessarily “body beautifuls”!
What has been a minor disappointment is the Commodore Club. The service is often slow once the drinks have been ordered, and without the cocktails being shaken at the table it seems to have lost some of its panache. For those of you who remember the original cocktails on offer (and the volume), a raspberry martini, might bring back memories. My husband tried to order me one last night, but was told it could not be made because they did not know the recipe/ingredients! You would not hear this in a first class cocktail lounge, and what was rather irritating, is that it was one of their signature classics not so long ago. However, all is not lost, as there has been a solo jazz saxophonist play there and most enjoyable to listen to. The gin and fizz bar is now our preference and has always been busy on this cruise. Both venues serve warm canapés in the evening.
Before dinner we decided to take a swim in the midship pool. Swimming not possible because of the agitation of the water, but rather reminiscent of the wave pools we used to take the children to in the 80/90’s. We had great fun being the only two, possibly rather insane, adults therein.
Another gala night completed ” the Victoriana Ball”. This is not the easiest to dress for, but so pleasant to see lovely dresses being worn; it just gives that extra sparkle.

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Not a lot to report on a very quiet day on board. A few days eastward from the Caribbean and the temperature has notably dropped, and we have a north easterly breeze. Telling signs! Many of the few who took to the steamers on deck 3, were donning jackets and wrapped in towels! 
My swim after breakfast was a little more of a shock to the system, but I happily swam for 30 minutes, and the pools have been empty when we have walked past. 
Very interestingly the photographers have been conspicuous by there absence for this cruise, and hardly any photos on display in the gallery. Even on formal nights there have been few set scenes with lighting backdrops or being asked to “pose” for the ever redundant holiday memories.
I understand that there has been a dispute  on board by those who joined the choir that intended to sing sea shanties, for the end of journey performance. The daily programme now also has a choir practice that rehearses Christmas carols. The ambitious singers can now exercise their vocal chords twice daily should they so wish. 
This evening after another visit to the wave machine 😁(under illuminations) we had a splendid meal, my OH had venison wellington, whilst I enjoyed the scallops. 
One thing I thought I would mention as it is often a topic here are the tables for 2. The day we boarded in the daily info paper, it said that all had been allocated on a basis of when the cruise booking had been made! I think some of the advice given on the threads that you should go to visit the M’d on the first day to get what you want, is rather optimistic. 
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Another lovely morning and calm sea. The temperature is now down to 22degrees, but there a northerly was blowing across the deck, which made it more bracing.
A good morning in the theatre with Bill Miller and Henry Blofeld. Bill gave his lecture largely on the Cunard 175 anniversary; always the odd anecdote that has been mentioned before, but he is such a likeable and knowledgeable man to listen to, it does not really matter.
A little more to be said about Henry! For those of you in the U.K. who love cricket, it has been a privilege to be able listen to him. Think of TMS (Test Match Special); if you closed your eyes you would think that you had the radio on. Amusing of course! The voice just the same. This larger than life character was there on the stage in his mustard coloured suit, lime green shirt and leopard print loafers and waffling along in his own inimitable style. The packed theatre hanging on every word and we have his Q&A session to look forward to next week. How refreshing that he takes little heed to political correctness.
Tonight was the P&D WC party. Not what it used to be because of the numbers, but we met up with old acquaintances and some new people.  Interestingly quite a few were bemoaning that Cunard had axed this Caribbean sojourn next year in preference to sending the QE to the Australasia.
It was the Roaring Twenties Ball, and some delightful outfits on show by the ladies ranging from knee length flapper dresses to gorgeous gowns. Even some gentleman had gone above the norm, which made the evening a spectacle. Captain Love gave a brief speech and promised us a 5 meter swell by tomorrow night! It seems the Atlantic is at last going to show us its presence!
After the Christmas show, we decided it was time for bed (and Zebedee was not around).



 

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1 hour ago, LadyL1 said:

Another lovely morning and calm sea. The temperature is now down to 22degrees, but there a northerly was blowing across the deck, which made it more bracing.
A good morning in the theatre with Bill Miller and Henry Blofeld. Bill gave his lecture largely on the Cunard 175 anniversary; always the odd anecdote that has been mentioned before, but he is such a likeable and knowledgeable man to listen to, it does not really matter.
A little more to be said about Henry! For those of you in the U.K. who love cricket, it has been a privilege to be able listen to him. Think of TMS (Test Match Special); if you closed your eyes you would think that you had the radio on. Amusing of course! The voice just the same. This larger than life character was there on the stage in his mustard coloured suit, lime green shirt and leopard print loafers and waffling along in his own inimitable style. The packed theatre hanging on every word and we have his Q&A session to look forward to next week. How refreshing that he takes little heed to political correctness.
Tonight was the P&D WC party. Not what it used to be because of the numbers, but we met up with old acquaintances and some new people.  Interestingly quite a few were bemoaning that Cunard had axed this Caribbean sojourn next year in preference to sending the QE to the Australasia.
It was the Roaring Twenties Ball, and some delightful outfits on show by the ladies ranging from knee length flapper dresses to gorgeous gowns. Even some gentleman had gone above the norm, which made the evening a spectacle. Captain Love gave a brief speech and promised us a 5 meter swell by tomorrow night! It seems the Atlantic is at last going to show us its presence!
After the Christmas show, we decided it was time for bed (and Zebedee was not around).



 

 

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Saturday 8th December
Last sea day before reaching the Azores, and very little to report.
Late this afternoon the Captain made an extra broadcast saying that the storm had not materialised as had been expected and the ship just had a slight rolling motion. I think this must have been a relief to the many who have mobility problems.
The evening saw us visit the Coriander restaurant in the lido. We had booked, and so pleased we did as it was extremely busy. Indian food with not too much spice, very tasty and beautifully presented. Personally I was pleasantly full after the appetiser, and neither of us were able to eat more than half the “sides” that were with the main meal.
Roy Locke performed again in the theatre, and after an attempt to walk around the prom for some fresh air, we gave up after completing only half a lap, as we were getting sprayed upon.

SUNDAY
We awake to calm seas and a blue sky, the QV just berthing in Priaia da Vitoria, Terceira an unspoilt island in the Azores. Sadly, yet again, we saw an ambulance awaiting our arrival.
Having been here a couple of times before, we decided to take the shuttle into town, then walk through the Bay area and climb the 290 steps to the Miradouro do Facho monument, and fabulous view point. After that we continued walking north along the coast, before coming back to the town and follow the scenic promenade, and continue walking to the ship. A good walk (and climb) of about 6 miles should have worked off a few calories.
So now we are on the last leg back to Southampton; how quickly 3 weeks (so far) has passed by! 
For those of you who are reading this and like a little quiz, this is the one that our Captain asked of us yesterday. ..........

How many McVities Rich Tea biscuits if placed in a line end to end on the longest part of QV, would be needed?

Please feel free to post your answer😁🤣 ! I will let you know before the end of the voyage🚢️.






 

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MONday

 

Today it is very grey and wet outside. But, to cheer the the passengers who are now mostly confined within the metal box of the ship, it was Christmas Market day. The chefs had prepared festive treats, looking very tempting, but we resisted all as we had lunch booked in The Verandah. This afternoon we succumbed to a sleep 💤, most unusual for us!

Looking around the now more familiar faces of the passengers, there are some worthy of a mention. A delightful (nearly) solo travelling lady; she has a giant teddy bear with her who sits at her table for 2 in the restaurant. A brilliant way to start conversation with strangers. There is a gentleman who has a hair style similar to Pres.Trump😬 and a wonderful chap who has his mobility “chariot” adorned with Christmas decorations. 
Tonight the theatre was full to see the New Amen Corner, our blast back to the 60’s! I am not sure if any of the four were of the original Amen Corner, but although they were good, the theatre was not alive and rocking as it was at the end of the Caribbean cruise last year, when we were privileged to have the “Rewind Project” onboard, (ex Moody Blues/10cc). They will perform in the Queens Ballroom on our last night.
 
(This was posted late as internet is just too slow to logon.)
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Tuesday.
We decided to have a lie in this morning, but managed to get to the theatre in time to listen to 2 officers from the bridge give their “navigation” talk. Although we have been to these before, this pair gave a very informative presentation. At the end they showed a short film of the procedures when leaving port. It was a few years back when Cptn Inger Klein Thorbourg was master on QV, and interestingly our current Captain Simon Love was her deputy.
Of course we could not miss Henry Blofeld’s Q&A with Sally Sagoe, and it was a shame that the theatre was not truly full as we had another amusing 45 minutes of cricket anecdotes! Blowers has an amazing recall of dates, players, runs scored and broadcasters of matches worldwide! What a gentleman of the “old school” he is . Sally Sagoe did say that he was back on the QV next year, so I do hope some of you have the fortune to be on whatever sailing it is.
I must touch on  the subjective issue of food! It is has absolutely splendid, and to those whom we have spoken at mealtimes, concur with our observations. In the Lido this lunchtime, we had another lobster and claws feast, with huge shrimp, scallops, clams and mussels, just in case you happened to be famished! This despite it being the final gala evening of the voyage, with beef wellington and broiled lobster being amongst the offerings on the menu in the MDR.
Tonight the Royal Court Theatre Company presented “Hollywood Rocks”, a great show, possibly their best so far. The sea is still calm so we expect another good nights’ sleep,  before the packing begins tomorrow.
 
Again, sorry this is posted belatedly, but it is so difficult to get on the internet, and then to Cruisecritic, having to login, each time!
 
 

 

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I’ve really enjoyed this thread, thank you.  

When there is a Lobster and Claws Feast in the Lido, is it posted or mentioned anywhere in advance, or do you just have to be lucky enough to go to the Lido that day? 

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There were no postings that this was to be in the Lido. We heard that the lobsters were taken on when there was a huge food delivery in Barbados, and both delicious feasts were on the way home! The food has been exceptional!

 

I will do a final post this evening (or tomorrow morning) with answer to the biscuit quiz trivia question.😉

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We awoke knowing that we would have to pack. Reality is beckoning and that means shopping and a frantic whirl before Christmas.
The last of Bill Miller’s lectures was this morning, and very interestingly on New York as a major port and the latter developments. This man is a great speaker, he loves his subject so much. Without deriding him, I hope we miss him on our next trips, as what he talks about sinks in; I suppose because we love ships too!
That was followed by Captain Love’s Q&A session with Sally Sagoe. Surprisingly it was quite entertaining and he comes across as such a genuinely nice man. He did mention that the next cruise to the Canary Islands, will probably not have the fair sailing weather that we have encountered. The Atlantic has been so tame for our two crossings. For us this is a rarity as some of our friends jokingly say not to travel with us as we are the bringers of fierce storms.
Whilst on board we have booked a QM2 2020 trip when she is 3 days in Quebec. It beggars belief how booked it already was in the categories we were looking at. Also bought a FCD, with a few options in mind.
I would like to mention the staff on this ship. Our steward and waiters (table 379) have been all we could hope for, and the friendliness of the crew whom we have had contact with before. The new barman, Adam and his team, in the Gin and Fizz bar are excellent, so if you are on the ship do visit.
And for the answer to the biscuit 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪 question, that may be only Host Hattie has been waiting for, is  4523. A bottle of champagne 🍾 would have been the prize for the perfect answer, but alas, no one posted that!😆😆
Regrettably our last dinner  was interrupted by a call for the emergency medics on deck 1, but  a good party night in the Queens Room was enjoyed by the many to the sounds of New Amen Corner, a professional band appreciated by people of a certain age.
For any of you boarding in the near future, happy travels. I will answer any questions once home with fast internet👍.
Thank you for reading this blog, until next time(?) when I might bore or entertain you once again! 

(Posted belatedly).

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You haven't bored at all. It's been a pleasure to read. We have sailed with Simon Love on a couple of occasions and find him the most amiable of Captains.

I look forward to reading your next account, whenever that may be. Hope the Christmas preps. aren't too frantic and thank you for taking us with you on your cruise.

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I was on this cruise and agree with Lady L The weather was good and the crossing smooth. Such a contrast to the same cruise last year.

 

However, since our Around South America cruise on QV earlier this year we found the service in the MDR was much slower. Most evenings 2 courses and coffee took 75 - 90 minutes and meant we missed the start of activities with friends. I pre order my meal as I have a special diet so the chef had 24 hours notice. One gala evening we were seated and had a starter but 30 minutes later - that is 50 minutes after entering,  our waiter informed me there was a problem and my entree was now being prepared. We left and went up to the Lido Buffet. In fact we made more use of the Lido Buffet and the varying evening buffets than on any other cruise. Maybe we were unfortunate but on subsequent nights there was a little more help.

 

We went to the Verandah for our son's 28th birthday and the meal and service were excellent.

 

I await to see if the service and food on QM2 has declined since we were onboard in the summer  as we board on 10th January 2019 for 3 sectors of the World Cruise.

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1 hour ago, Elephant1151 said:

I was on this cruise and agree with Lady L The weather was good and the crossing smooth. Such a contrast to the same cruise last year.

 

However, since our Around South America cruise on QV earlier this year we found the service in the MDR was much slower. Most evenings 2 courses and coffee took 75 - 90 minutes and meant we missed the start of activities with friends. I pre order my meal as I have a special diet so the chef had 24 hours notice. One gala evening we were seated and had a starter but 30 minutes later - that is 50 minutes after entering,  our waiter informed me there was a problem and my entree was now being prepared. We left and went up to the Lido Buffet. In fact we made more use of the Lido Buffet and the varying evening buffets than on any other cruise. Maybe we were unfortunate but on subsequent nights there was a little more help.

 

We went to the Verandah for our son's 28th birthday and the meal and service were excellent.

 

I await to see if the service and food on QM2 has declined since we were onboard in the summer  as we board on 10th January 2019 for 3 sectors of the World Cruise.  

I was also on this cruise (my third same itinerary 2016 & 2017)  Sorry to hear you feel the service had deteriorated from your previous year.  I'm afraid I have to disagree with you , the service in the evenings I experienced was outstanding, as was the food/menu. 

I guess this is all down to your particular table waiter ?  and whether you chose to sit at a larger table ?  ( I have to admit my travel companion and I occupied a table for two)  we managed to be in the Ballroom by 10pm and catch the occasional show at 10.30pm .

 

There is no reason why you should find the food on QM2 to have declined , these new menu's are  without doubt outstanding and an improvement, and  are now across the fleet . By the way, I enjoyed a generous portion of 'Caviar', the first time I've seen this offered in Britannia,   I appreciate you have need for a special diet, however,  I'm surprised , as I've always noticed that those guests with special diets have always been well taken care of.  

Edited by Bell Boy
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On 12/14/2018 at 6:05 PM, Elephant1151 said:

 

 

However, since our Around South America cruise on QV earlier this year we found the service in the MDR was much slower. Most evenings 2 courses and coffee took 75 - 90 minutes and meant we missed the start of activities with friends. I pre order my meal as I have a special diet so the chef had 24 hours notice. One gala evening we were seated and had a starter but 30 minutes later - that is 50 minutes after entering,  our waiter informed me there was a problem and my entree was now being prepared. We left and went up to the Lido Buffet. In fact we made more use of the Lido Buffet and the varying evening buffets than on any other cruise. Maybe we were unfortunate but on subsequent nights there was a little more help.

 

That is such a shame that you had poor service. Our neighbouring table for 2 had a person on a strict g/f diet, and she was delighted all round. Certainly no waiting beyond the norm! 

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The problem with my gluten free diet was only on one night, and we left and went to the Lido.  A table for 3 people taking 60 - 90 minutes for 2 courses and coffee was unacceptable as was the case on other nights.  Our waiter did have a lot of covers as most people turned up every night we were there. 

 

Friends on first sitting also experienced slow service.   It is the luck of the draw as service at breakfast varied when I only had fruit and yoghurt and no gluten free toast.  We believe there were fewer staff overall.  Lets hope the situation is better in the future. I have sailed with Cunard many times and this was the slowest service we  have received.

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On 12/12/2018 at 5:14 PM, LadyL1 said:

There were no postings that this was to be in the Lido. We heard that the lobsters were taken on when there was a huge food delivery in Barbados, and both delicious feasts were on the way home! The food has been exceptional!

 

I will do a final post this evening (or tomorrow morning) with answer to the biscuit quiz trivia question.😉

Thank you Lady L for you comprehensive review.

We were on this cruise and found it very enjoyable. We have done this twice before on QE and this time the weather was so good to us, all the way there and back, plus  good ports of call.

We booked a shore excursion in Matinique which was probably the right thing to do, regarding all the issue that people seemed to encounter with taxi etc. Our tour was excellent and the island was really beautiful, classy and chic. It reminded me of Reunion Island.

We also took a ships tour in St Vincent as I wanted to go to the island of Mustique. One of the few islands I have never visited over the last 40 plus years.

It was stunning and very peaceful.  A millionaire's Paradise that one  had to see.

The food on the ship was outstanding compared to cruises on Cunard taken in the past few years. We cruise Cunard regularly and since 2015 the food became very dull, boring, and bland. In my opinion. It was a joy to have wonderful food served nicely and such variety back onboard. Yes, the lobster was amazing! 

No problem with service,  but our table for right  became a table for two after people seemed to disappear to the Lido and alternative venues. One couple moved as they where hard of hearing so opted  for a two. 

No problem for us as we were happy where we were. 

The lectures were excellent, some good entertainers. The comedienne seemed to struggle to get a laugh, but he was placed at the end of the cruise in a graveyard slot. Second show near end of the cruise. I have seen him before and can be very funny.

The group The New Amen Corner played to a packed theatre for first sitting diners. We attended this show as we had been to the Verandah for lunch and did not want a full dinner.. We are told the first sitting theatre show was always full to capacity. Second show was not always well attended. 

I found the aft deck where the pool and cabanas are quite funny to watch people who had obviously got up at the crack of dawn to hog the cabanas.

They looked ridiculous laid there with towels piled on top themselves, and huggled up and snuggled up like two love birds,  as if they were in bed! 

In fact I felt embarrassed looking at them. Cabanas look good in movies with body beautiful movie stars not overweight seniors who think they are in a hospital bed. 

I wish Cunard had not placed the cabanas on the ship.

Needless to say I never spent much time there having my own preference to find a quiet spot.

The gym had new machines installed  the day we boarded and the new equipment is excellent. 

All in all no complaints about this cruise except I found the pillows very uncomfortable. I found the same on QE twice this year and even worse on QM2 early in the year. I have left my comments about the pillows with Cunard. 

I also was in the fashion show with you Lacy L. It was fun. 

I agree with others it is a shame  this cruise will not happen next year. 

Happy Christmas. everyone. 

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