Can I participate in Ahoy Vintage Cruise events if I book a cabin on the same crossing with a different travel agent or Cunard?
No, definitely do not make this mistake! In order to participate you must book directly with Tom at Ahoy Vintage Cruises. Our events are exclusive private parties and you must book through us in order to gain access to them. We take advantage of a special group booking rate for ship passage, then budget in the costs of hiring our wonderful guest entertainment for the week. You can rest assured that each and every Ahoy booking goes to support our musicians as well as covering your passage with Cunard. Book now.
What kinds of health and safety measures will there be?
Cunard is taking extensive measures to prioritize safety. First, it’s helpful to understand that, unlike hotels and regular public spaces, cruise ships have had sanitation procedures in place for years.
Some of the safety protocols include:
- Every area of the ship will be rigorously and regularly cleaned and disinfected
- Additional hand-sanitizing stations
- Enhanced on board ventilation systems to provide improved filtration and increased fresh air on board
- Adherence to approved guidance for every aspect of the vacation experience
- Everyone on board needs to follow the latest guidance regarding health safety.
You can have the confidence that Cunard will have in place pre-booking and boarding health screening, the highest levels of cleanliness throughout the ship, as well as approved standards for the service of food and drink and entertainment onboard.
What is the cancellation policy?
A passenger cancellation or a single name change can be made outside of the penalty period. Once the penalty period comes into effect, there are penalties for cancellations and name changes. The cancellation schedule for each cruise line is provided before the passenger makes a deposit. Travel cancellation/medical insurance is available to cover such fees to protect the passenger from monetary loss. Please contact Tom here at Ahoy to make arrangements.
Does Cunard allow curling irons?
Yes, you can bring a curling iron.
Does Cunard allow steamers?
Steamers are not officially allowed by Cunard. There is a complimentary launderette on each passenger deck that have a professional iron and ironing board. There is also a retractable clothesline in the shower so you can steam your clothes with hot shower water.
How does the booking deposit work?
Cruise lines require a deposit to confirm a reservation usually within 73 hours of holding a cabin. If no deposit is made, the courtesy reservation simply expires. The full balance for the voyage is due anywhere from 120-90 days prior to sailing. Please contact Tom here at Ahoy to make arrangements.
Why is it better to book early?
It’s always best to book as early as possible for the best selection of cabin. Since the deposit is usually 100% refundable, you can always change your mind before making the final payment without fear of any monetary loss. Please contact Tom here at Ahoy to make arrangements.
What are the passport requirements?
Passport scrutiny has become stricter. Please check your Passport now for its expiration date. Your Passport must be valid for at least 6 months past your departure date for the last country you visit. Not 5 months and 28 days but a FULL six months. For our Queen Mary 2 crossings, that would be 6 months past the sailing date from Southampton and a bit more just to be safe. If you don’t have a full 6 months past your departure date, please renew now. You are solely responsible if you get turned away by Immigration for failing to have an expiration date a FULL 6 months past departure date.
Will everyone on the ship be part of the vintage group?
Our vintage group will be an intimate private party of approximately 150-250 people so that everyone can fit comfortably in the Queen’s Room to enjoy the private events. The ship carries up to 2,620 passengers so most people on the ship will be regular passengers, not part of our group. The regular passengers will be curious and envious of the fun we’ll be having! Be prepared to answer questions about “What’s going on?”
How many hours a day will be dedicated to the private vintage parties?
Throughout the voyage, there will be five private performances plus a cocktail party along with the option of additional daytime meetups. Our main events will usually take place in the Queen’s Room between 5pm and 7pm. A detailed schedule will be provided for your crossing. You will have lots of opportunity to enjoy the rest of the ship’s amenities, restaurants, activities, and entertainment with new-found fellow vintage friends.
What’s included in the booking?
When you book your voyage, Tom will arrange your cabin, passage, and access to all of the vintage private parties. If you’re new to cruising, you will be delighted to learn that all of the meals in the main dining room (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as well as the buffet and room service are completely included in your booking. Cunard’s afternoon tea, lectures, shows, and many other activities are also included.
Alcohol and beverage packages are an additional charge. On the ship, you will have the opportunity to visit the specialty restaurants, spas, casino, and other activities and services, which will be clearly noted if they have an extra charge. You are under no obligation to spend any additional money beyond your booking.
Please note that your primary booking does not include transfers to and from the ship and tours or events before or after the crossing. Please see the Transfers, Accommodations, and Art Deco Events pages for more information.
What is the dress code?
We are a vintage loving community and we encourage you to plan to bring your favorite vintage or vintage-inspired clothing for both daytime (optional) and evening (encouraged). However, if you don’t have this style of clothing, don’t be stressed.
Cunard’s ship board dress code is Country Club Casual. The general evening wear dress code is Business Casual.
During the Trans-Atlantic crossing, there are two Gala nights for the entire ship. The first is always a Black and White Ball and the second will be a regular formal night with possibly a Masquerade/1920s theme. Please check the specifics for your voyage.
Because of the evening schedule (our group’s private parties take place before dinner and have a later dinner seating), you are encouraged to dress for the full evening of events rather than planning to change between events and dinner.
Don’t forget to join the Vintage Cruise Lounge where clothing is a often a hot topic of discussion.
What can I expect from a trans-Atlantic crossing?
Unlike a typical modern “cruise”, the Queen Mary 2 makes a direct passage from Southampton to New York City. There are no stops or ports. This recalls days gone by before air travel took over the travel industry. There are seven days at sea to enjoy the amenities of the ship and get to know your fellow passengers.
The daily program of general shipboard and private Ahoy vintage events ensures you’ll be kept entertained and busy. Or, you can opt to read a book and relax on deck weather permitting. I love this passenger’s quote. “I don’t know what I did all day but I didn’t have time for anything else.” Isn’t that just great?
Overall, the experience is very relaxed and leisurely giving you time to enjoy the elegance of the ship.
What if I get sea sick?
Keep in mind that although the ship is specifically designed to handle the potentially rough seas of the North Atlantic, there can sometimes be some rolling motion. Those prone to motion sickness should consider bringing medication to ensure a comfortable voyage. Just check with your local pharmacy. If you forget to bring medication and are feeling unwell, it is available at the Purser’s desk in the main lobby.
Will there be dancing?
Yes! If you want there to be! But there is zero pressure if dancing isn’t your thing.
The Queen Mary 2 has the largest dance floor at sea. Our private parties will have live music perfect for cutting a rug. There will also be opportunities to dance to the ship’s house band when they take the stage in the Queen’s Room later in the evening. Recorded music is also often played in the ballroom for additional dance time.
If you can’t dance and would like to learn some steps before you cruise, it’s appropriate to take local or online lessons. Each crossing has daily dance lessons provided by well known dance instructors. But don’t worry…if you don’t wish to dance, it’s great fun to watch!
Can you help me find a roommate?
For those wishing to find a person to share a room with, the Vintage Cruise Lounge is a perfect place to put out inquiries.
Is there internet on the ship?
The Queen Mary 2 is Wi-Fi enabled. Satellite internet packages are available to purchase pre cruise or once on board.