Advice for a New Guy? - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

Misterhawk · 05-16-2009, 01:01 PM

Hello, Folks,

Having never been a cruise before, I thought I would try to get some advice from the veterans.

I've always wanted to make the transatlantic run but it's never quite worked out. I will be flying back from London on the 15th and am debating trying to get on the QM2 instead. The rub is that I will be travelling alone and have no desire to pay the full two person price for a cabin.

I have spoke to Cunard and several travel agents about not paying the supplement and none of them were that helpful three weeks before the sailing. I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts as to whether or not Cunard would be more agreeable closer to the date and, if so, how close to the date would it be before they decided that they needed to take half the price of a room than let it go empty?

Thanks for any advice you may offer.

Rory

djgifford · 05-16-2009, 02:52 PM

Very rarely do cruiselines let a single pay less than if the cabin were at double occupancy. The only plus is that you only pay taxes for one... not much help, I know.

I have not seen any specials offering singles lower rates.

Dolores

Lanky Lad · 05-16-2009, 03:02 PM

Welcome aboard Rory.

Cunard charge 175% for singles, something we singles are not happy about.

Last year Cunard did offer some crossings with no single supplement, so there is a chance. I would not be very hopefull, but it's worth asking.

You might be lucky and get a good deal which works out less than the brochure price even with the supplement.

Good luck

Lanky Lad · 05-16-2009, 03:23 PM

I have just checked on the Cunard site and the lowest grade cabin avaialbe on the 25th June crossing is A1. So it looks like it is almost sold out. Does not look good for a cheap deal.

Misterhawk · 05-17-2009, 11:48 AM

Well; I am looking to get on the Westbound crossing from Southampton on the 13th. The best I can think of is to pack as if I am going and if they have any empty cabins by the 10th maybe they will be more reasonable. If not ...

When I called Cunard they told me that if I had previously sailed on Cunard it would only be 150%. Does anyone know if that's true?

Rory

Lanky Lad · 05-17-2009, 01:03 PM

I know there was a deal for Cunard World Club members on some crossings. I thought the offer was for early booking and only on the April and May Crossings. I could be wrong though.

Lanky Lad · 05-17-2009, 01:11 PM

I have just checked the Cunard site and there lots of cabins avialable on the 13th July Crossing so there is hope

Misterhawk · 05-18-2009, 01:21 AM

Thanks. I've noticed the price for the cruise hasn't started acring up like you'd think it would, so it made me think I had a shot.

Can you point me to anywhere that would tell me what I need to pack for the transatlantic run? I have my tuxedo standing by ...

Char · 05-18-2009, 07:51 AM

Stephen is the right person to ask! He can give you all the details on what to wear on a Cunard ship.

I hope you can get a deal that you are happy with.

Lanky Lad · 05-18-2009, 03:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Misterhawk

Thanks. I've noticed the price for the cruise hasn't started acring up like you'd think it would, so it made me think I had a shot.

Can you point me to anywhere that would tell me what I need to pack for the transatlantic run? I have my tuxedo standing by ...

The first and last night will be casual (no tie required), there will be three formal nights (Tux) and one night will be semi-formal (suit and tie).

As for during the day, trousers and a shirt/t shirt will be fine.

This link will take you to the Cunard site FAQ section Cunard: The Most Famous Ocean Liners In The World