40 years ago, I missed out on the trip of a lifetime. Now, I'm finally living my grandmother's dream. This is my story of recreating her transatlantic adventure on the Queen Mary 2, the world's last traditional ocean liner.
A Trip of a Lifetime
As the Queen Mary 2 gracefully left the harbor, my daughter Jemima and I watched the Manhattan skyline shrink in the distance. I couldn't help but think of my late granny, Madge, and my brother, Charlie, who had embarked on the same voyage 40 years ago. It was a trip that had left an indelible mark on my grandmother, who had recently lost her husband, George, to cancer. She chose my then 16-year-old brother as her companion, and they did it in style.
The QE2, named for Queen Elizabeth II, was a ship of legend. With its opulent staterooms, grand lobby, and even a Harrods store on board, it was a celebrity magnet. From Princess Diana to Mick Jagger, everyone who was anyone sailed on the QE2. It was so famous that it was referenced in television shows, from The Golden Girls to Victoria Wood. But my family's journey began long before the QE2.
A Family Affair
I was only nine when my granny and brother visited New York, and I was envious that he got to go while I was at school. But now, as we checked into our hotel, the William Midtown, I felt like I was finally following in their footsteps. Yes, it was a bit less decadent (we flew Virgin instead of Concorde), but the hotel had everything we needed, including a balcony and kitchenette. It was brilliantly located, just off Fifth Avenue and a short walk from the Empire State Building.
Exploring the Big Apple
Keen to explore the city with my 12-year-old daughter, we visited the Edge Observation Deck and the Jellycat Diner in FAO Schwarz. We also indulged in some refined moments, with a delicious dinner at The Standard Grill and another at Japanese restaurant Nobu. But the real adventure was yet to come.
All Aboard the Queen Mary 2
As we approached the Queen Mary 2 at the Brooklyn terminal, we were stunned by its sheer size. It felt special to climb on board, 39 years after my brother and granny's voyage. The QM2, built in 2004, is the world's last traditional ocean liner, built especially to cross the sea. It's 147 feet longer than the Eiffel Tower.
Retro Glamour and Modern Perks
The QM2 transported us back in time with its pictures of royals and stars from my granny's era. The vast central lobby, with its gold embossed details and curved staircase, was timeless. Our stateroom, a Princess Grill suite, was a luxurious haven with a walk-in wardrobe and Egyptian cotton sheets. Each day, we were treated to a daily program of activities, from ballroom dancing to bridge, which my granny would have loved.
Treated Like Queens
The highlight of our week was the incredible service from the staff in the Princess Grill Restaurant. They were warm and welcoming, and soon got to know our favorite drinks. We feasted on lobster and flaming Crepe Suzette, feeling like royalty. Despite the glamour, the QM2 offers modern touches, from great WiFi to Matcha lattes.
A Journey of Micro-Moments
It was the micro-moments that made the journey special. Chats with fellow guests, from wealthy New Yorkers to retired farmers from Lincolnshire, were memorable. On our last night, we raised a glass to my granny and the uncle my daughter never got to meet. We even got a picture with celebrity music producer Benny Blanco, which captured the QM2's magic.
A Voyage to Remember
The Queen Mary 2 offers a unique blend of retro glamour and modern perks. It's a voyage that made me feel closer to my late granny and brother. If you're seeking a journey of reminiscence and adventure, the QM2 is the perfect choice.
Book Your Adventure:
- A transatlantic crossing with Cunard starts from £1,929pp for a Britannia Balcony Stateroom.
- A Princess Grille Suite starts at £4,249pp, booked with a Cunard Fare. Both prices are based on two people sharing and exclude flights.
- Rooms at The William Midtown start from £260 per night.
