Cruise expert Tom Mahoney, director of UK sales for the prestigious Cunard line, has delved into the essentials of stress-free sea travel.
Cunard has navigated 249 ships around the globe in 180 years. Offering a treasure chest of tips for future passengers, Mahoney emphasises the importance of timing and preparation to ensure a smooth journey.
Tom specified: “Make sure to arrive within your assigned time slot, to save any unnecessary waiting in the port.”
He also noted: “Bring essentials in your hand luggage, like valuables, documents, medication, and a swimsuit, if you want to enjoy pool access before your luggage arrives at your stateroom.”
Expanding further, Tom advised: “And you can familiarise yourself with the ship’s layout beforehand, so you already have a good idea of everything when boarding.”
With an eye on dining and attire, Tom suggested to pre-book speciality restaurants and pack wisely. He said choosing layers as a wardrobe strategy suits fluctuating temperatures, and it’s worth preparing for special events, such as Gala Nights.
Tom clarified some common misconceptions about sea travel onboard luxury liners. He mentioned the vessels are “much less formal than people imagine” and highlighted the unique service where they even serve bacon butties directly to guests in their staterooms.
Discussing the optimal times for sailing, he pointed out that it heavily depends on the destination; summer is prime for adventures through the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Alaska, whereas winter attracts travellers to the Caribbean or South America.
As for Cunard’s famed transatlantic sailings aboard the Queen Mary 2, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer the finest experiences, reports the Express.
Tom also shared a tip on how passengers can show appreciation for the crew’s hard work, stating: “Small gestures, like tidying your stateroom before the steward arrives, can make a big difference!”
He added: “We have hundreds of dedicated crew on board our ships – for example, Queen Anne boasts 1,225 crew members for 3,000 guests – and they really enjoy meeting and talking with guests.”