My Time Onboard Cunard’s Queen Victoria
I arrived at the terminal around 12:30, and check-in was quick and well organised. There were plenty of staff on hand directing everyone, so it all felt smooth from the start. Just before boarding, I was handed a glossy magazine, a small touch but a nice way to begin.
When I stepped on board, my stateroom was already ready, which made things easy straight away. My luggage arrived shortly after, so I could unpack and settle in without waiting around.
I headed to the Golden Lion for a drink, which quickly became one of my favourite spots on the ship. It’s relaxed and easy, and a good place to start the trip. After that, I spent some time exploring and getting my bearings before getting ready for the evening.
The first night started with drinks in the Yacht Club, which has great views out to sea, followed by dinner in the Britannia Restaurant. The service stood out straight away. Later on, I ended up in the Queens Room for the silent disco, which was a lot of fun and a good way to round off the day.
A Day At Sea
A sea day gave me time to slow things down and properly enjoy the ship.
I started the morning with breakfast in my cabin, sitting with a coffee on the balcony and watching the sea. It’s a simple way to start the day, but one I’d recommend.
The rest of the morning was spent walking around the ship and finding a few new spots to sit and relax. It’s easy to fill the time without having to plan too much.
Lunch was in one of the speciality restaurants and was a real highlight. The steak was cooked perfectly, and the Caesar salad made at the table added something a bit different.
In the afternoon, I spent a few hours in the spa, moving between the thermal beds and the plunge pool. It’s a quiet space and a good way to switch off for a while.
That evening followed a familiar routine, dinner in the Britannia Restaurant and then on to the theatre for the comedian, who had everyone laughing throughout.
A Day In Amsterdam
Sailing into Amsterdam early in the morning was worth being up for. Watching the city come into view from the balcony was a great way to start the day.
After a relaxed morning on board, I spent some time looking around the Queens Grill and Princess Grill areas. Seeing the suites and private spaces gives you a good idea of how different that experience is.
In the afternoon, I headed ashore for a canal cruise. It’s an easy way to see a lot of the city, and the commentary along the way adds a bit more context to what you’re looking at.
After that, I had some free time to explore. I wandered through the streets, stopped for a coffee and just took it all in. As it got darker, the canals lit up and the atmosphere changed again.
I headed back to the ship later that evening and grabbed something to eat before turning in.
The Final Day On Board
The last full day was a bit more relaxed.
In the morning, I went to the theatre for the Remembrance Sunday service. It was a quiet and reflective part of the day and something that stayed with me.
Afterwards, I went up on deck to watch the ship go through the lock system as we left Amsterdam. It’s surprisingly interesting to watch and gives you a different perspective on how everything works behind the scenes.
In the afternoon, I went for afternoon tea. It’s a classic Cunard experience with sandwiches, scones, cakes and live music, all done really well.
That evening was Gala Night. Everyone dresses up, and there’s a slightly different feel across the ship. I started with drinks in the Yacht Club before heading to dinner in the Britannia Restaurant.
After dinner, I moved between a few different spots on board, finishing the night with music, dancing and a final drink.
Final Thoughts
What I liked most about Queen Victoria was how straightforward everything felt. It’s easy to settle into a rhythm, and you can make the experience as relaxed or as busy as you like.
There’s a good balance between the classic Cunard style and a more comfortable, informal feel. It’s a ship I’d happily sail on again.