Cape Town to Melbourne Jan 2019

I like Cunard, we have sailed on all three Queens. We sailed on the QE last summer to the Baltic and by coincidence, this cruise was on the same ship, we chose the route rather than the ship on this occasion. Having said that QE is a lovely ship, very comfortable. My wife and I are in our early 60’s and in my view are still a little young for many aspects of Cunard cruises, QE attracts a mature crowd well into the 70’s, but I prefer this type of crowd to the full on party boat. Last summer saw a slightly younger crowd, the night club was always rocking, not on this cruise though, a lot of folks going to bed early.

The entertainment on board was aimed at baby boomers and was generally first class. The Overtures being my particular favourite.

We ate in the Britannia Restuarant each night on the whole food was very pleasant. The Lido buffet has something for everyone (surely) although some reviews state lack of choice, personally I loved the wide fresh choice.

Once again alcoholic drinks are very expensive and a 15% service charge takes a glass of wine to about £10. Beer is a reasonable-ish price £5 per pint. The service charge is not optional so is a tax in reality.

Sadly I removed the gratuities, again, tipping those that I was served by personally.

Port shuttle buses are very useful. Cunard trips are also a little pricey but well done. We enjoyed both trips around Reunion island and Mauritius.

Fremantle is a beautiful town no need for an organised trip. Busselton, none of the Aussies had heard of it either was a true delight, the perfectly manicure seaside town was wonderful. Great beach, promenade, bars and shopping, wish it was in England.

Met some great Aussies on board, Stuart and Michelle acting as tour guides in Adelaide, good on yer mate!

Melbourne is a world-class city, loved Chinese New Year, wow it was vibrant. Tour of the MCG was amazing. Stopped in Singapore for two days on the way back, again a beautiful city.

Great holiday, I would recommend Cunard to those wanting a quiet ship, which given the right crowd does occasionally rock, but not in a rowdy way.

Is it too formal, no it’s nice to dress up, although one or two did sneak past the maitre d, are well!

We will use Cunard again but will try other ships in the near future.