RMS QUEEN MARY 2
July 11-22, 2004 | Ålesund, Norway
During an 11-day Northern European cruise aboard Cunard’s RMS Queen Mary 2, the ship made her inaugural visit to Ålesund, Norway, on July 15, 2004. Arriving early in the morning, Queen Mary 2 received a warm welcome from the city as residents gathered to celebrate her first call. This gallery captures that memorable visit during Queen Mary 2’s historic inaugural year, with the ship set against the dramatic scenery of Ålesund.
The RMS Queen Mary 2, often referred to as QM2, is a remarkable feat of maritime engineering and a symbol of modern ocean liner travel. Launched in 2003, she is the flagship of the Cunard Line and stands as the only true ocean liner in service today, distinctively built for transatlantic crossings. With her sleek, elongated hull and powerful engines, the QM2 is specifically designed to cut through the waves of the North Atlantic, providing unmatched stability and speed. Her luxurious interiors are a blend of contemporary design and classic elegance, offering passengers a range of exquisite dining options, spacious accommodations, and a wealth of recreational facilities. The ship's majestic silhouette and distinctive black and red livery make her an iconic presence on the seas, celebrated for her heritage and unparalleled level of comfort.
Name: RMS Queen Mary 2
Operator: Cunard Line
Year Launched: 2003
Shipyard: Chantiers de l'Atlantique, Saint-Nazaire, France
Passenger Capacity: Approximately 2,600
Crew Capacity: About 1,200
Length: 1,132 feet (345 meters)
Beam: 135 feet (41 meters)
Draft: 33 feet (10 meters)
Speed: 30 knots (56 km/h; 35 mph)
Tonnage: 149,215 GT
Facilities Include: Multiple restaurants and bars, a planetarium, a large theatre, a ballroom, several pools, and a spa.
Unique Features: The only passenger ship designed for regular transatlantic service, equipped with advanced stabilizers for smooth sailing.
Refits/Upgrades:
2011: Underwent a refit at the Blohm + Voss shipyard in Hamburg, Germany. Enhancements included refurbishing the cabins and public areas.
2016: A more extensive remastering was completed at the same shipyard, with upgrades to the Queens and Princess Grill suites and restaurants, redesign of the Carinthia Lounge, and addition of The Verandah specialty restaurant.
