Last Month, Cruise Specialist Mary joined Cunard’s Queen Anne for a 7-night Norwegian Fjords roundtrip from Southampton. From Cunard’s centuries of cruising traditions and grandeur to the quaint and peaceful landscapes and villages of Norway and Denmark, Mary shares her highlights to inspire your next Cunard travel plans.
Day 1 – First Impressions of Cunard’s Queen Anne
Boarding Cunard’s Queen Anne in Southampton was a breeze. I arrived at 1:45 p.m. and was on board 15 minutes later — the perfect way to travel if airports aren’t your thing.
Once onboard Queen Anne, the first impressions of the ship in three words were: elegance, detail, and luxury. A beautiful grand atrium with flowers and statues greeted us. Glass structures and crystals surrounding the bars gave that old-school glamour vibe. Walking further through the gorgeous atrium with its stunning mural backdrop of the ship itself generated an extra appreciation for the vessel I was on.
I stayed in a stunning, completely unobstructed balcony room — cabin number 5219. It featured a great-sized balcony, essential coffee and tea-making facilities, and Penhaligon’s toiletries. There was plenty of wardrobe space, and I found the softest dressing gown waiting for me after my gorgeous rain showers — perfect for relaxing on the balcony. Bliss!
I headed straight to the Golden Lion Pub, a traditional British-style venue with live sports, a dartboard, pub quizzes, and good old pub grub. Fish and chips with a scotch egg for lunch — I felt right at home.
Next, I jumped straight into the Panorama Pool as the sun was blazing in Southampton. Here, I enjoyed the lovely Welcome Sailaway Party with sea views and a gin & tonic served by a black-tie bar waiter. (Fancy!)
That evening, we dined in the Britannia Restaurant. The two-tier layout made it feel extra grand and more spacious. I ordered the salmon, which is one of the consistent dishes — and it didn’t disappoint. It’s great to know the menu offers a variety of dishes, but for the more particular guest or those with allergies, there are still plenty of options.
Day 2 – Cunard’s Traditions: Gala Evening and Afternoon Tea
Today was a sea day, so after a refreshing complimentary breakfast in bed — Danish pastries and fruit juices while watching the sea pass from the balcony — we headed over to the boardroom for a Seminar at Sea with Cunard’s trade team. It focused on the exciting regions Cunard sails to, including their world voyages.
We followed that with a treasure hunt around the ship, spotting some of Cunard’s main features: a Theos Fabergé egg, replica royal crowns, a beautiful piano, and stunning artworks in the gallery. These trips aren’t just about showcasing the ship — they’re about understanding what sets Cunard apart so I can share it with you.
Cunard is renowned for its well-established traditions — including Afternoon Tea (originating in 19th-century England) and the Gala Evenings, a throwback to the golden age of cruising.
We had Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room, which featured fresh finger sandwiches (egg mayonnaise and seafood rolls), freshly baked scones, lemon cake — all served with Cunard’s signature white glove service. What’s not to love?
That evening was Gala Night, and the theme was Black Tie. I wore a black floral dress (still needed a splash of colour!). It was lovely to see everyone dressed up and making an effort.
We dined in Britannia again. I ordered the garlic prawns — absolutely delicious.
The evening ended with a performance by comedian John Evans — refreshingly funny and the perfect way to build excitement for our first port tomorrow: Kristiansand.
Day 3 – Kristiansand, Norway
This morning, I enjoyed another complimentary breakfast in bed while an opera singer serenaded us into Kristiansand port — talk about a showstopper!
A short 15-minute stroll took us into Kristiansand’s quaint little town, full of market stalls, coffee shops, and ice cream parlous. The town’s buildings were traditional Northern European design. We enjoyed a leisurely walk through the harbour, town square, and visited the gorgeous cathedral.
One great perk of cruising is that many ships dock right in the heart of the action — meaning you can come and go as you please. After a morning of exploration, I returned to the ship for lunch — a great way to save money while traveling.
That evening, we paid a little extra to dine at a specialty restaurant: Tramonto, offering a more intimate, enhanced dining experience with personalized service and unique Mediterranean cuisine.
Tramonto had a light, modern ambiance and even offered alfresco dining — quite rare! I ordered the sea bream, accompanied by Mediterranean tapas — a lovely way to try a variety of dishes. The waiters couldn’t do enough for us. Well worth the cost!
Day 4 – Oslo, Norway
This morning felt truly magical as we sailed through Oslofjord toward Oslo. From the comfort of my balcony cabin, enjoying room service breakfast, I finally caught sight of the iconic Norwegian Fjords — a breathtaking way to experience the beauty of Norway.
We had a shore excursion booked for today, and I was especially looking forward to it. Shore excursions are a must in Norway — they offer the best way to explore local attractions in remote places.
I joined the Glassblowing Demonstration, watching real glass being handmade and blown to perfection — impressive!
We also visited the Olympic skiing slope and a stunning viewpoint overlooking the city. Walking through Oslo’s streets, I saw the city castle walls, the designer shopping street, and the cathedral — I love exploring old buildings; they fascinate me.
Back on board, I had lunch at the Artisan Food Hall: made-to-order pasta with tomato sauce and cheese, and a delicious king prawn breaded burger.
I then went back into Oslo to shop (again!) and enjoy the town as the sun went down. I returned to the ship around 10:15 p.m. for the evening entertainment: “Sounds of London”, featuring Ed Sheeran and Adele’s greatest hits — both nostalgic and unique.
Day 5 – Oslo, Norway
After brunch, we walked to the far side of the city to get some steps in before our early sailaway. We visited Oslo Cathedral and the Opera House, walking along the roof for full panoramic city views — stunning!
That evening we dined at Sir Samuel’s, the onboard steakhouse. Service was impeccable! The steaks looked amazing, but as a pescatarian, I had succulent king prawn and lobster dishes — equally impressive.
We ended the night at the Bright Lights Society venue for an Abba Show — pure musical delight! It felt more like the West End than a cruise ship.
Day 6 – Skagen, Denmark
This morning, I ventured out for a full English breakfast at the Artisan Food Hall — inhaled it before I could even take a picture.
I also visited the Grills Venues on board. These offer a more immersive dining experience — food is cooked or flambéed tableside, adding theatrical flair. The menu includes more gourmet options than Britannia, and guests can even order off-menu. This adds real value for those opting for the elevated experience.
In the afternoon, we headed into Skagen town centre — a charming place with red and yellow houses and a surprise train track running through it!
Rather than book an excursion, I took a €7 return bus to Grenen Beach — where the Nordic and Baltic seas meet. Seeing waves crash in different directions was surreal!
Tonight was Cunard’s second Gala Event – The Red and Gold Gala, celebrating Cunard’s heritage. While not mandatory, who doesn’t love a chance to dress up?
Guests didn’t disappoint — feathers, hats, sequins — some clearly planned their outfits for months!
We dined in Britannia, where the chefs performed a parade of flags, and the captain gave a heartfelt thank-you speech. A lovely and memorable touch.
Day 7 – Final Day on Cunard’s Queen Anne
Today was my final day on board, and I made the most of it.
Breakfast in the Main Dining Room was eggs benedict with salmon and pancakes with fruit and syrup (because I couldn’t decide!).
I then explored more of the ship: the Library, the Commodore Club with its evening pianist and cocktails, and the Spa — where I couldn’t resist the hot stone beds, hydrotherapy pool, saunas, steam room, and ice room!
I attended a ‘Pamper Party’ event and received a complimentary skincare consultation. (Apparently, I need more Vitamin C!)
Later, I listened to a Cunard Insights Talk on graffiti — focusing on Banksy and Mr. Brainwash. Informative and fun!
For our final evening, we returned to Britannia. The menu changes nightly, and the fish croquettes were the highlight — the whole table ordered them!
We ended the cruise with a visit to The Queen’s Room for an aerial show, followed by one last trip to the Bright Lights Society to watch John Evans, who had everyone in stitches. A perfect way to finish the cruise, with smiles all around.
Off at 10 a.m. tomorrow — over and out!
Final Thoughts on Cunard’s Queen Anne
From elegant gala evenings and luxurious spa sessions to unforgettable ports of call and impeccable service, my time aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne was nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, this ship offers the perfect mix of tradition, comfort, and discovery. I hope these highlights inspire your next Cunard adventure — it’s an experience you won’t forget.
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Or call Mary for free on 0179 200 2511 or email mary.issac@cruisenation.com— she’s ready to help you plan your perfect Cunard cruise holiday.
