A festive Christmas cruise with Cunard to Northern Europe typically sails from Southampton around mid-December. With cruises between 3 to 5 nights it’s a wonderful short break to visit the Christmas markets in the Netherlands and/or Belgium. This sailing on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth left the UK on the 19th December for Belgium on a three night roundtrip.
Cunard offers a more traditional and refined cruise experience, champagne on ice in your stateroom sets the tone for a luxurious few days onboard.
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The grand lobby is a nod to the golden age of cruising with polished wood panelling and Art Deco patterns. For the Christmas season the public areas have been adorned with garlands, trees and poinsettia plants.
The wintery weather didn’t discourage some from enjoying the pool, jacuzzis or a game of bowls on deck.
The elegant Queen’s Room on deck two hosts discos, parties and balls in the evening with live bands, and by day it’s used for Cunard’s traditional Afternoon Tea with white glove service. Arriving early is worthwhile as the Afternoon Tea is very popular and queues are likely to build quickly.
If you simply want to enjoy the tea at your leisure, you also had the option to help yourself in the Lido Buffet around the same time.
Related: Check out these amazing Afternoon Teas available on cruise ships
The art-deco style is particularly obvious in the glamorous Britannia restaurant. The atmosphere, table setting and personal service made for a very enjoyable evening dinner experience.
Cunard’s traditional style, combined with the festive decorations ensure feelings of nostalgia are not too far away.
For more information about Cunard’s Christmas Market and New Year cruises visit their website for upcoming voyages.
Post updated October 2020.
What sets Cunard apart from other cruise lines? I’ve cruised on Queen Elizabeth, and there is one huge difference between this ship and others I’ve cruised on, you don’t touch on this, and to me it’s a very important part of the experience.
What do you think it is?