Are you ready for Alaska by Cunard? I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on an awe-inspiring journey aboard Cunard's Queen Elizabeth, as we set sail to explore the pristine wilderness of Alaska. From the moment I stepped on board until our final port of call, this majestic ship proved the perfect vessel to discover the untamed beauty of the Last Frontier. Allow me to share the highlights of this unforgettable Alaskan voyage, from its exquisite dining options to its world-class entertainment, all set against Alaska's breathtaking landscapes.
Queen Elizabeth boasts many dining venues catering to various tastes and preferences, each delivering a memorable culinary experience. Like all cruises, you will never go hungry!
I was impressed at how the staff did everything in their power to satisfy the needs of my picky travel companion with food allergies. The main dining staff went as far as sending her favorite dessert to our room on a night we weren’t even dining there.
The Britannia Restaurant exudes timeless elegance as the ship's main dining room. I dined here most evenings, savoring gourmet dishes crafted with the finest ingredients. The service was impeccable, and the sommeliers guided me through a delightful selection of wines. If you don’t see anything on the menu that tempts your tastebuds, they always have steak and chicken that they can prepare.
Passengers staying in Queens Grill and Princess Grill Suites have the privilege of dining in exclusive restaurants that offer an elevated level of service and a menu tailored to individual preferences. Indulge in the likes of lobster thermidor and filet mignon and enjoy every sumptuous bite.
For a more relaxed dining experience, the Lido Market provides various options, from fresh seafood and sushi to international cuisine. Late-night snacks, cookies, and pizza were always pulling in the crowds. The Lido was one of my favorite places to enjoy afternoon tea and watch the wildlife outside.
Craving British pub fare? The Golden Lion Pub offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring hearty favorites like fish and chips, pot pies, and burgers. It's the perfect place for a casual meal or a pint of Alaskan craft beer. Did I mention the sticky toffee pudding? Yumm!!
Ensure you get your fill of fish and chips during the first few days of your cruise. It won’t be long, and everyone else will catch on that the Pub is the place to be, and you’ll have trouble finding a seat.
The Verandah is the place to be for the finest steak at sea. The ambiance is sophisticated yet inviting, and the menu offers some of the finest cuts of beef. If you’re not a steak lover, don’t worry. They have plenty of options to please everyone. ($$)
This Asian-forward specialty restaurant has a lovely Alaskan twist. You start with a bento box of appetizers. Pro tip: There is a bento box full of exciting bites. Please don’t hesitate to ask them to hold some items and double up on others. Next time I go, I’ll ask for a bento box with JUST the Kataifi Shrimp! ($$)
For a taste of Alaska, head to Frontier! If you love fish, this dining option should not be missed. I had the Wild Elk Pie, and it did not disappoint. Make sure someone at your table orders the hand-carved smoked salmon- carved right at your table. ($$)
Having a lazy morning or don’t feel like venturing out? Or, did you work up an appetite dancing all night? Room service is fast and free! The Smoked Salmon Bagel and the Avocado Toast quickly became a daily ritual in our room. Thankfully, we only discovered the Warm Salted Brownie with White Chocolate Ice cream on the last night of our voyage! Delicious!
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The Queen Elizabeth offers a diverse range of entertainment options, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in Alaska by Cunard.
This stunning venue hosts an impressive lineup of performances, from West End-style productions to classical concerts. They even had a comedian one night. For an extra special experience, reserve a theater box.
The Queens Room is the heart of the ship's social scene, featuring live music and dancing every evening. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner, the professional dance hosts are there to guide you through the steps. I even got up and danced! My gentleman dance host made it look like I knew what I was doing!
If you're seeking a quieter, more refined atmosphere, the Commodore Club is the ideal spot. Enjoy a classic cocktail while taking in panoramic ocean views from the ship's highest point. We ended most evenings chatting with new friends over a few cocktails in this lounge. It was one of my favorite spots on the ship.
Feeling lucky? The Queen Elizabeth's casino offers a range of games to test your fortune. I’m not a gambler, so I would watch the fun from the Golden Lion Pub where the only gambling I would do is try a different kind of beer.
One unique aspect of a Cunard voyage is the "Cunard Insights" program, featuring talks and lectures by experts in various fields. I attended several fascinating lectures about whales and even astronomy, which added an educational dimension to my journey. Don’t worry; if you miss a presentation, you can catch it later on your stateroom TV.
Between gourmet dining and world-class entertainment, the Queen Elizabeth provides ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
For the ultimate pampering experience, treat yourself to a luxurious spa day. From rejuvenating facials to invigorating massages, the skilled therapists at the Royal Spa will have you completely rejuvenated.
The ship boasts excellent vantage points for taking in Alaska's glaciers and wildlife. I spent hours on the decks, binoculars in hand, marveling at the majestic landscapes and spotting humpback whales and bald eagles.
The well-stocked library aboard the Queen Elizabeth is a haven for book lovers. You could spend hours perusing the extensive collection and enjoying quiet moments with a good read. This was my go-to place to get some work done.
The onboard boutiques offer high-end products, from designer fashion to fine chocolates. I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs to commemorate my voyage.
While I always promote buying everything you need for your cruise before you leave home, Cunard's shops have all the essentials if you forget to pack something. See my list of Amazon Must-Haves for your next cruise.
The epitome of Alaska by Cunard, and one of the highlights of my voyage, was the impeccable service of Queen Elizabeth's attentive crew. They anticipated our every need, ensuring that our Alaskan adventure was as seamless and enjoyable as possible. The crew made our journey unforgettable, from our friendly cabin steward to knowledgeable excursion guides. You can’t help but feel special when the staff greets you by name.
My Alaskan voyage aboard Cunard's Queen Elizabeth was a journey of discovery, offering gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, and relaxation amid Alaska's awe-inspiring landscapes. If you're looking for a truly enchanting expedition to the wilds of Alaska, I wholeheartedly recommend setting sail on the Queen Elizabeth. It's a voyage that will leave you with cherished memories of Alaska's grandeur and the elegance of Cunard's flagship.
If you’re considering an Alaskan Voyage, may I suggest Alaska by Cunard with this unique 11-night journey? There isn’t a better itinerary out there!
Happy sailing!
Lesa Nelson
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