empty deck chairs on the QM2
When we think about cruising the seas aboard a luxury liner, we conjure up images of stately cabins, five star dining, deck quoits, sitting by the pool, dancing till dawn and exotic ports of call. Well, I just thought I’d share the “other side” of cruising that most people may not talk about.
We did the Atlantic crossing from Southampton to New York aboard the luxurious Queen Mary 2. A most magnificent vessel and all you could ask for in a cruise liner. Half way across the Atlantic the weather got a tad wild, and we found ourselves inside for a day watching the storm passing through. Needless to say, there were no brave souls attempting to walk around the deck that day or taking a nap on these deck chairs. It certainly wasn’t safe to venture out, and these chairs sat empty as the Atlantic rolled by (literally!). The captain was even kind enough to mention when we were passing the spot where the Titanic sank many years previously (not a comforting thought).
Just so you don’t get the wrong idea about cruising, I have also included a picture of the “Champagne Bar” aboard the QM2. This is where you can hole up on stormy days, find a nice comfortable tub chair, order a drink or coffee and just chill out. Just one of the many bars and restaurants aboard to choose from.
As for the storm, it passed quickly, and we were out on the dry deck chairs the next day.
Your photo reminds me of a cruise we just did a few months ago in the Chilean fjordland. When we approached cape Horn, famous for its stormy seas, we were in constant winds of 100 knots, with gusts of 160 knots. The deck was even emptier than your photo above would indicate!
Nice photos, Islandman. Thanks for taking all of us aboard the Queen Mary.