RMS QUEEN MARY 2
July 2004 11-22 | Southampton UK to Southampton UK - 11 Day Baltic Sea and Northern Europe Cruise of Scotland, Norway, The Netherlands and Germany
On July 15, 2004 during an 11 day Baltic and Northern European cruise we were on the RMS Queen Mary 2 (Cunard Line) made a memorable inaugural visit on July 15 to Ålesund, Norway, where the city greeted the ship early in the morning to celebrate her first arrival. This gallery showcases a collection of photos from this historic visit aboard the Queen Mary 2 in her inaugural year, capturing the grandeur of the ship and the beauty of each port. Marking a series of inaugural visits to the Baltic Sea and Northern Europe, these images offer a glimpse into the early voyages that defined her legacy, including the warm receptions and scenic beauty encountered at each destination.
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.
