Hello All

The future belongs to the youngsters of today. Today I want to share a very special blog with you written by one of our guests – 16 year old Matt Venner. Matt recently travelled across the Atlantic Ocean on Queen Mary 2 and he asked if he could share his experiences on our blog – to which the answer was ‘of course, we would love you to’. So – through the eyes of a bright 16 year old – here we go……

Guest Blog

Matt Venner

Guest on board Queen Mary 2

Nothing can prepare you for the sheer size of Queen Mary 2. Her giant white superstructure towers above the new ocean terminal in Southampton and you never quite remember how massive she is. When we arrived, my eyes just kept going up. I had totally forgotten how tall she is, always dominating the skyline, not that it bothers me at all, because isn’t she a beautiful thing?

The terminal itself is fantastic. The boarding system that Cunard have adopted is brilliant, and we thought they should do the same at airline check in! The lettered cards are a great idea. Not only do they split up hoards of people into manageable sized groups, but they also build excitement as everyone eagerly awaits the call of their letter.

Once you get on the ship itself, there really is nothing quite like it; it’s hard to take it all in. Smiling faces at the door are ready to greet you and show you to anywhere you need, the massive expanse of the Grand Lobby stretches all around you, and the wide hallways reach to each end of the ship and the most important public areas. It’s one of the most fantastic public spaces I have ever experienced; the lobby is just as you would imagine a classic liner’s to be, including a double staircase, white and black wood and red carpets.

Almost everyone has asked me what my favourite part of the trip was, and to be honest I can’t say one thing over the others, it was all perfect and I really could not fault anything. If I had to choose though, I would say the wonderful Cunard service. For me it isn’t just the White Star Standard, it’s all the personal touches from everyone. Nothing is too much hassle, and everything is served with a massive smile and impeccable manners – I could definitely get used to being called Sir at 16 years old on a day to day basis. One member of staff that comes straight to mind is one of the head waiters in the Britannia Restaurant. Every time we saw him he chatted away, and always cheered us up when we were tired in the morning. Another great part of cruising is the people you meet. We were lucky enough to meet some wonderful people, from our brilliantly chatty fellow diners, to the people we bumped into round the decks and in the pools and Jacuzzis.

Possibly the best highlight of the voyage, was Monday 25^th July. The whole day was stunning. The sun shone all day and the decks were packed with people enjoying cloudless blue skies, but perhaps some of the best moments I can recall from my entire childhood came in the early afternoon. We spotted a small group of dolphins off the port side; everyone rushed over and gazed at the ocean waiting for any small glimpse of the prize.

After our appetites were wetted by this short encounter, the wildlife obliged. Pods of dolphins and whales came past the boat all afternoon. No sooner was one group out of sight, swimming past the boat, than we caught a glimpse of the next group coming just ahead of the bow. They were heading the opposite direction to us, and literally came in their hundreds. We learnt later in the day that it had been one of the best days the Queen Mary 2 had ever had, and an estimated 500 dolphins and whales passed the boat throughout the day. We were in heaven. On our own private balcony, overlooking perfectly clear aqua seas, completely flat and reminiscent of shimmering silk, with nothing but the ripples from the bow wave, and pods of dolphins swimming right by our window, perhaps only about 50 metres away at their closest, coming from underneath the ship and jumping right before our eyes.

Another transatlantic wonder is the sunsets, and sunrises. The sunset on our penultimate night was absolutely stunning, and the panorama I took doesn’t really show it in all its glory – it was breathtaking.

At the end of our voyage was the fantastic entrance to New York harbour. Here the sunrise was stunning. Never have I seen such pink skies in the morning. If anyone hasn’t yet tried it, it really should be on your list of “things to do before you die”, standing on the top deck of the tallest ocean liner in the world, as people are talking in hushed whispers that grow into small yelps as the funnel approaches the Verrazano bridge. They say 4 metres clearance but it doesn’t even look like 4 feet! The atmosphere on deck is unlike anything I’ve felt. Everyone is staring at one specific point waiting to see if it will fit, and right up until the last moment, no one believes it will (even those who have experienced it before!) It is beyond exciting.

As we slipped into New York, through the metaphoric gates of the Verrazano Bridge supports, to quote one of the fantastic lecturers we had on board, Bill Miller:

“We became another sparkling jewel on the magic bracelet that is New York City.”

As for my final word; the Queen Mary 2 is a fantastic liner. I can’t find words that do it justice but I would sail again on her tomorrow if I could. I had a magical experience.

Thank you so much Matt and we are all so pleased that you offered to share your experiences with us. At Cunard Line we don’t often talk about how many families and youngsters we have sailing with us. However at this time of year we can have as many as 300 youngsters on board for a crossing. We have good facilities for them and the scale of the ships means that guests are never really aware of just how many youngsters we have on board. I really enjoy seeing young children – and teenagers – dressed for dinner on a formal night. I am sure there must be many conversations prior to dniner along the lines of ‘Dad – I am not wearing that jacket and that funny bow-tie thing’. But wear them they do – and memories they create for the whole family. It reminds me of one of my own Queen Mary 2 family memories.

Back in 2004 there was much excitement in the Shanks Family household when I announced we would all be going on the first Queen Mary 2 ’shakedown’ voyage for two nights – we would be amongst the first to sail on the most famous ship in the world. As my wife and two daughters (14 and 12 at the time) travelled down the M3 to join the ship I called them to say that we would all be staying in a four-bed inside stateroom. I stressed that it would be rather embarrassing for them to be seen to be complaining about this and they had to be on their best behaviour. On arrival at the QE2 Terminal, they were met by a Butler and taken up to The Balmoral Duplex Suite where I was waiting to meet them. I shall always remember the look on my daughters faces – they were not after all in a four-bed inside stateroom, they were about to ’shakedown’ the largest suite at sea. Reading Matt’s blog reminds me of just how exciting and special Queen Mary 2 is. As a family we still treasure all the photos from that ’shakedown’ – and every cabin we have stayed in since has been somewhat of a disappointment by comparison. I hope that Matt treasures his memories and I hope he has thanked his mother for giving him that opportunity – I am sure he has. We look forward to Matt – and many youngsters like him – travelling with us in the future and ensuring the continued success of Cunard Line for many, many years to come.

Have a good weekend wherever you are.

Best Regards

Peter

As you read this, Queen Elizabeth is at sea heading for Stockholm, Sweden, Queen Victoria is in Flaam, Norway and, very fittingly our flagship Queen Mary 2 is in Boston, USA. You see, today is a notable anniversary for Cunard Line; 171 years ago to this day, our first ship Britannia left Liverpool and crossed the Atlantic to Boston, beginning the first scheduled transatlantic service. The Transatlantic Crossing remains a Cunard tradition today, and Queen Mary 2 will be making the journey 20 times in 2012.

You will often hear us speaking about ‘White Star Service’ on board our Queens, this is all about working together to ensure each of our guests are provided with the finest possible service whilst travelling with us.  Every month on each of our ships, one crew member per ship is awarded the title of White Star of the month. Nominations for the Star on each ship are a result of guest and crew feedback, and then consideration by our on board White Star Committees. I’ll be introducing you to our latest stars after this week in Cunard’s history for the week of 4 to 10 July:

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4 July 1840	At 2.00pm the Britannia leaves Coburg Dock in Liverpool to cross the Atlantic at 9 knots in 14 days and 8 hours (3 days ahead of schedule)
4 July 1986	QE2 participates in the Statue Of Liberty centennial celebrations in New York Harbour.
4 July 2002	The keel is laid for Queen Mary 2; the first of 94 blocks that will make up her hull. The first block was 600 tons. On the same day Commodore Warwick is appointed Master Designate.
7 July 1909	Lucania begins her last voyage.

 

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Now it’s my great pleasure to introduce Cunard’s three new Stars, and this month they come from the Food & Beverage and Deck departments:

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Queen Elizabeth

Marcis Burkitis – Assistant Buffet Steward

 Marcis works in the crew mess, serving meals to our crew members. He was nominated for the award by his fellow colleagues for always displaying the White Star credo Points. He is very cheerful at his work and brings a kind atmosphere around him. He is very positive and always tries his best to help his fellow crew members. He puts in practice everything that was taught in the White Star Academy.

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Queen Victoria

Auxencio Mordido – 2^nd Bosun

Auxencio has been recognised on board Queen Victoria for his diligence and energy during tender operations.  His experience, knowledge and dedication to deliver a smooth and efficient tender service are second to none.  He is instrumental in organising and supervising the pontoon operation, tender drivers and boat launching and everything has to work like clockwork.  He always pays particular attention to guests with walking difficulties ensuring a safe and comfortable transit for them.

Here is Auxencio with Captain Olsen and his fellow White Star nominees during the White Star Awards:

  

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Queen Mary 2

 

Andrea Nemes – Senior Waitress

 Andrea looks after the crew mess, staff mess and officer’s mess on board Queen Mary 2 and her colleagues say she is a true example of White Star Service. Andrea was nominated for her immaculate appearance and positive and self motivated attitude.  She goes out of her way to support crew welfare and her dedication has been noticed by many crew and officers. Andrea coaches her team and also has a good professional relationship keeping the morale high. Andrea never says no, always smiling and portrays a positive figure.

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Congratulations to all the winners for last month and we look forward to revealing this month’s winners in a few weeks time. I’ll be back later this week with the latest news from all three Cunard Queens and a guest blog from the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show here in the UK. The show is on all week and Cunard will be hosting the Palace Tea Rooms, we look forward to meeting some of our readers there!

Best regards

Peter

Countdown to Queen Elizabeth – 88 days

It’s certainly been another busy week and a very special one for this Blog, as we mark the 200^th post. It’s certainly something to celebrate and only possible through the help of the team in Southampton, Guest Bloggers and of course you, our readers who gave us our busiest month to date in June, so a huge thank you to everyone.

On to this week, and another big thank you for all your comments and questions, I’ll try and get back to you as soon as I can. One question that I can answer straight away may also be of interest other readers. Queen Elizabeth’s Maiden World Voyage leaving Southampton 5 January will be in tandem with her sister Queen Victoria. By the way they will also alternate sides so for those guests with a balcony are guaranteed a good view of the sister ship for half of the crossing! All three Queens will meet in a spectacular event on 13 January in New York, before Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria arrive in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday the 16 January. So lots of celebrating ahead with some great photo opportunities and I’ll have more information about Queen Elizabeth soon along with some more videos at the end of the month after my next visit to the shipyard in Italy.

With our new Queen joining the fleet, it does mean that our Fleet Personnel department in Southampton have been very busy recruiting new staff ready to deliver Cunard’s legendary White Star Service on her expanding fleet. That’s a huge task, only matched by the training that takes place afterwards to ensure those exacting standards are maintained on all three of our Queens. This week’s Blog features guest blogger, Dominique Damerell, who is the White Star Trainer on Queen Victoria and she’ll tell you more about herself and the Academy she runs; that’s after this week in Cunard’s history from 16 to 22 July.

July 16 2009

Queen Victoria makes her maiden call to Flamm, Norway

 July 17 1840

The Britannia arrives in Halifax Nova Scotia completing her maiden 14 day voyage from Liverpool (3 days ahead of schedule)

 July 18 1840

The Britannia arrives in Boston for the first time

July 18 1951

Caronia II makes her maiden call to Bergen, Norway

July 20 2009

Peter Shanks is named as the new President and Managing Director of Cunard Line

July 22 1990

QE2 completes her fastest eastbound Atlantic crossing in four days, 6 hours and 57 minutes, at a speed of 30.16 knots

Bringing a new ship in to service presents some unique challenges and one of them is dealing with the dramatic increase in staff required to continue to deliver White Star Service to our guests on all three Queens.

 

 

Maintaining those standards is something we all feel passionate about, but the job of ensuring our new Cunarders are matching their colleagues’ exceptional level of service, belongs to our White Star trainers on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and soon Queen Elizabeth. Following from one of our reader’s questions I thought you may be interested to get a feel of who our trainers are and the superb job they do on board our Queens. Dominique Damerell, who is the White Star Trainer on Queen Victoria, was kind enough to find some time in her very busy schedule to take up that challenge, so here she is:

  Guest Blog   

  Dominique Damerell

  White Star Trainer, Queen Victoria

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My inception to the hospitality industry started at the age of 13. I have always genuinely enjoyed serving guests and in particular, the art of serving food. To do this successfully I believe that you really have to regard hospitality as a calling. It is a challenging industry in which to build a career, yet also one of the most rewarding.

I come from a family of chefs and hospitality gurus, and my upbringing in Johannesburg, South Africa is not only enhanced by a keenly developed work ethic, but also with a determined attitude to succeed and to make the most out of my chosen career path. I have often commented to our guests that it is essential we love our work and are passionate about what we do. There is no greater regret than wasting our working lives on a career or job we do not love doing.

My decision to change hospitality operations and start on the ships came about in 2005. Like the students I train today, I remember being a part of the White Star Academy on Queen Mary 2 as if it were yesterday. The White Star Academy is an integral part of a crew member’s first two weeks on board, as joining any ship for the first time can be a daunting experience.

I have progressed up the ladder steadily, using each contract to work to the best of my ability and to attend as much training as possible. Fortunately Cunard always offer a choice of training courses, and I ensure that I partake in as many as I can during each contract. I have always enjoyed getting as much out of a contract as possible and believe that what you put in is ultimately what you get out of any experience.

Cunard recruits internationally and to date I have trained service personnel from Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Great Britain, South Africa, Germany, Czech Republic, Ukraine, Romania, the Philippines, India, Serbia, and Croatia. Following the fantastic efforts of our recruitment specialists shore side, I have been fortunate enough to be responsible for the continuation of the successful candidate to become professional Cunard service personnel, from the foundation built in our Academy.

The White Star Academy is a well established programme and my colleague Rishi Chadha has many years of experience running the academy on Queen May 2 as her White Star Trainer, now both ships are conducting back to back White Star Academies with brand new trainees embarking everytime the ships are in their homeport, Southampton. This is part of the important preparation for the much anticipated launch of Queen Elizabeth. Many experienced crew from our current fleet are destined to be a part of the elite start up team for the launch of our youngest Cunarder, so we started preparing our increased manning well in advance, and I must admit I am honoured to be a part of this exciting project. It has been both a pleasure and privilege not only to welcome aboard our new joiners but also to watch them embody Cunard White Star Service, our unique signature brand of service.

Although all our new crew members will be trained professionals in their area of expertise, it’s important they understand the Cunard way. The White Star Academy is an internal induction training programme that covers both elements of Guest Service combined with Skill and Product Specific knowledge training. The Academy is crucial to the successful integration into ship life and here are some students in one of my classes.

 

 

The Academy has been designed to educate and instil pride and passion in all new Hotel Crew within Cunard providing a lively and interactive platform during which all trainees are encouraged to participate with enthusiasm and individual contribution. I’m always impressed by their positivity and commitment which is astounding. We each bring something special to Cunard and I plan my training sessions around getting the best out of our newly joined crew and this involves a lot of hard work, but a lot of laughs as well.

 

Each trainee brings something special and unique to the Cunard family and I try to ensure that they don’t lose sight of this. I merely guide them in the direction of White Star service, provide them with the tools to do this and help them see the sequence and logic of professional service, the Cunard way, the White Star Way.

Success in the Academy is not guaranteed and there are three exams that need to be passed before graduating. It’s a wonderful feeling to reach that graduation day and I can assure you that it is hard work reaching that point. Here are my latest team on their graduation day, while Queen Victoria was in Norway.

 

To be a part of Cunard is like being a part of a close knit family. Our family is one which is very special and we will do our utmost to make our new trainees feel welcome and to support and assist them in all aspects of their professional growth and personal development. Working at sea involves a commitment I have rarely seen anywhere else, so as experienced crew members, we welcome our newly joined crew members with respect and a desire to help and support. After all we have all been there ourselves.

In life, hard work, perseverance and consistency will certainly pay off in the end. I am a veritable example of this and so too are many of my colleagues. I confidently promise my trainees an exciting future with Cunard. I like to think the White Star Academy serves as a reminder to this and to the legacy that will always be Cunard. After all WE ARE CUNARD.

Thank you Dominique – what a great Guest Blog. I’m sure our readers will agree that it gives a fascinating insight to how our new crewmembers begin their Cunard Careers. I’ll be back on Monday with a post featuring a recent visit to Queen Victoria and then on Thursday a special interview with Queen Elizabeth’s Executive Chef. Cheers for now, Alastair.

Countdown to Queen Elizabeth – 111 days

As many of you will know, a key part of Cunard’s White Star Service Programme, is when each month Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria recognize a “Star of the Month”. A regular feature on this Blog is to interview our new stars and this month we go to Queen Victoria and June’s winner, Noel Aquino, who is the ship’s Pizza Chef.

Noel received numerous nominations from guests and fellow crewmembers, who felt he was a true example of White Star Service, with his tireless work preparing fresh Pizzas in the Lido. Here he is receiving his award with  from (left to right), Captain Chris Wells, Executive Sous Chef, Klaus Kremmer, Noel Aquino, Executive Chef Bernhard Stumpfel and Hotel Manager, David Hamilton.

Noel was born and grew up in Manila in the Philippines, where he attended both school and university. He married Cristina in 1992 and they now live in Dasmarinas, a city 65km South of Manila.

A far cry from Pizzas, Noel originally trained as a helicopter mechanic in the Philippines Air Force. However when his son Gabriel was born, he decided to leave the Air Force, and change his career completely by working in a Chinese Restaurant as well as a part time in a local hotel.

He never particularly liked pizzas but was walking past an Italian Trattoria in Manilla, and curiosity got the better of him. After 5 years of working there and an expanding family he started looking at ways he could earn more to support them. Here are his three children in 2006.

 

He first came to sea in 1996 as a Galley Helper and progressed through the ranks, before joining Cunard during the start up of Queen Victoria, as a Chef de Partie.  

Noel and Cristina’s oldest child, Gabriel, is now seventeen and is currently studying to go in to the hotel business. Here he is with his girlfriend Ara.

  

Noel and Cristina also have a daughter Camille who is fifteen and hopes to study tourism.

They also have another boy, Tristan, who is five and Noel admits it is hard being away from the family, but he is comforted by the fact that he is able to provide well for them now and in the future. Home time at home is cherished, especially when he is able to be there for special occasions like birthdays, so he was delighted to be home for Tristan’s birthday last Christmas.

As a Pizza Chef he takes pride in ensuring our guests enjoy his freshly made pizzas and giving White Star Service. His day begins at 9:30am when he prepares the ingredients for the day. It’s busier when the ship is at sea, when he regularly makes over 200 pizzas a day. He told me the most popular is the Margarita. Noel has breaks during the day and normally finishes at 10pm and here he is at work showing off his skills!

In his spare time on board, Noel likes to keep fit by visiting the crew gym regularly. Meanwhile at home, he says he dreams of participating in active sports like surfing and paragliding, but actually spends most of his time with his wife and children. He told me that time at home is very precious; when he can enjoy seeing his family build their memories together.

Noel and Cristina also share a love of motorbikes, and he is very proud of his Honda XRM. He and Cristina love to go out on their bikes, sometimes for days, and enjoy the beautiful country side near their home. This is one of their favourite spots just 25km from their house.

Mind you he never really gets away from work, as he even cooks pizzas at home, but of course he has to use a regular oven in his kitchen.  He told me the kids love pizzas and keep asking for more!

Noel told me that he feels “We Are Cunard”, means representing his fellow Chefs, the Galley Team and the company, making sure he gives the very best impression to our guests. He added that he would like to thank the Executive Chefs Bernhard Stumpfel and Nicholas Oldroyd, along with his fellow Chefs, for all their support and to the White Star Committee for voting him as Star of the Month.

 As for the future, he told me that he would like to develop his career and may be move to another section of the galley whilst spending more time studying culinary arts. Eventually he dreams of running his own pizzeria back home in the Philippines, where he would create his own pizza and call it a Dolce Vita

 I’d like to congratulate Noel again for being Queen Victoria’s latest Star of the Month and to thank him for taking the time to chat with me, and share his story, not to mention the fantastic Pizza he prepared for me!

 I’ll be back on Thursday with the regular weekly update and the promised Guest Blog featuring the Youth Programme on Queen Mary 2.

Cheers, Alastair.

Countdown to Queen Elizabeth – 292 days

 

As Queen Victoria spends her Christmas in the Canaries and Queen Mary 2 celebrates in the Caribbean, we’ve already had snow falls here in Britain. Who knows whether it will stay or not for Christmas, but it has certainly made things very festive as we think of our colleagues in warmer climes. Thank you again for all your comments and to answer the big question regarding Queen Elizabeth and when she will float out; well read on as Peter Shanks mentions it in his message. Before we get to that here’s this week in Cunard’s history, for the week 25 to 31 December:

 

25 December 1981 QE2 makes her maiden call at Kralendijk, Bonaire

26 December 1949 Caronia makes her maiden call to Ciudad Trujillo (Santo Domingo)

26 December 2003 Queen Mary 2 arrives in Southampton for the first time

27 December 1930 John Brown Yard Manager, Donald Skifflington, hammers first rivet on Queen Mary

28 December 2007 Queen Victoria makes her maiden call at Madeira

30 December 1964 Contract to build QE2 is signed between Cunard and John Brown Shipyard.

 

As we reflect on this remarkable year for Cunard, it’s a great pleasure to hand over to Peter Shanks for his thoughts on this last year and a look at the one ahead.

 

 

Guest Blog – Peter Shanks – President and Managing Director Cunard Line

 

Happy Christmas

 

As we look forward to Christmas and the dawn of a new year, it’s good to reflect a little on the past year and what we have to look ahead to in 2010.  The past year has certainly been a tough one for all of us, whether in business or in our personal lives, given the very challenging economic conditions we have seen around the world. First and foremost, all of us at Cunard Line would like to thank our valued guests for travelling with us over the past year. We are fortunate to have a wonderful sense of loyalty amongst our guests. We have also seen a growing number of guests sailing with Cunard Line for the first time in 2009. Almost every sailing has been full during the year and we really appreciate that support.

 

As you know, we very carefully measure our guest satisfaction on each and every voyage. Through the year our guests have scored their satisfaction at record levels on both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria. Over 98% said they would recommend Cunard to a friend and over 97% said they would return to sail with Cunard again in the future. That is terrific and the credit for that must go to the ship’s company. We pride ourselves on our White Star Service – it’s the most special thing we have.  In a Christmas message to all of our staff who work so hard on board our ships I was able to thank each and every one of them for the marvelous “White Star Service” they deliver to our guests, so rest assured their efforts in looking after all of our guests have been, and will continue to be, well recognised.

 

I hope you have enjoyed reading our Blog during 2009, it’s really starting to take on a life of its own. From my perspective there have been a number of highlights during the year, many of which have been shared on the blog, but in particular I will remember the year for:

 

·         Queen Mary 2 Around the British Isles Voyage – this was a wonderful way to celebrate the 5^th birthday of Queen Mary 2 – without doubt the most famous ship in the world. The welcome we received in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Cobh and Cherbourg was amazing. It reminded all of us of the proud tradition of Cunard Line.  To be on Queen Mary 2, on the Mersey River, alongside the historic Cunard building, in the Royal Court Theatre, with the 73 piece Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra performing “You’ll never walk alone” was very Cunard. Queen Victoria will go round Britain in July 2010 on her inaugural lap of honour and I certainly won’t miss that one!

 

·         My lapel pin – I never thought a lapel pin could mean so much. All of us at Cunard Line wear the White Star Service lapel pin. It is a small piece of metal, but it represents something which is incredibly special both to all of us at Cunard Line and I trust to our guests as well.  Each time I go on the ship, it acts as a point of reference – all of our staff have their pin and wear it proudly, they also recognise the fact that I have my pin on as well. So even to those staff who I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, there is instant recognition that we are all part of something special.

 

·         So many awards – it’s fine for all of us at Cunard to be proud of the service we deliver to our guests.  However to receive third party recognition is much more powerful as it salutes the holiday experience and service we offer to our guests.  2009 has been a great year for awards including:

 

-       “Cruise Line of the Year” – British Travel Awards

-       “Best Cruise Line in four out of five categories” – the first ever Zagat awards in North America

-       “Top two ships in the world” – Berlitz Cruise Guide

-       “Top Cruise Line” – Cruise.co.uk guest reviews

-       “Conde Naste Readers’ Travel Award”

 

Those are only a few but it was terrific in each case to be able to send a very positive message to our ships’ company for what they have achieved.

 

 

·         Meeting our Guests – in my first six months as President and Managing Director of Cunard Line I have really enjoyed meeting so many of our guests whilst on board our ships.  That has been a real highlight for me personally as it is always useful to hear just how our guests feel about their experience as well as ideas for future itineraries and areas where we could further innovate and improve in everything that we do.  So thank you for taking the time to share those ideas and I look forward to meeting many more of our guests during 2010, including when I join Queen Mary 2 in New York in June eastbound Transatlantic Crossing.

 

 

Looking forward to 2010, it’s going to be a very special year indeed. The highlight of course will be the introduction of Queen Elizabeth in October. There is a real sense of anticipation and excitement building now and we have much to do and much to announce as we go through 2010. Our Blog has become a really useful way of us communicating how the ship is developing and Alastair has been terrific in terms of the photos and video blogs he has been posting.  We will continue with that starting with the Float Out ceremony on 5 January in Trieste. Rest assured we will share all of our exciting news as we go through each month of 2010.  The one for everyone to watch out for will be the launch of the Queen Elizabeth inaugural Summer Season for 2011 which will go on sale in April. We are currently working on her itineraries to ensure they are the best we have ever had, with a range to suit everybody in all of our international markets. 

 

In the year ahead Queen Victoria also has some exciting new itineraries as she settles down to fly/cruising in the second half of the summer in the Mediterranean and of course her exciting new programme for Winter 10/11 which includes the Caribbean, Panama Canal, West Coast of USA and Hawaii. And with Queen Mary 2 and her historic Transatlantic crossings we really have an awful lot more to offer our guests than ever before.

 

So thank you for being one of our “bloggers”. We will be launching a new website in the first part of 2010 and we will continue to make sure that our “We are Cunard” blog plays a prominent part.

 

It gives Alastair, myself and many other colleagues the ability to tell the many exciting and varied stories that come to us on a daily basis at Cunard Line. It is really very special to have a brand with 170 years of heritage and the youngest fleet in the world.

 

So a very happy Christmas to each and every one of our bloggers and guests and thank you so much for your interest and support of Cunard Line during 2009.

 

Best wishes too for the year ahead in everything that you do. We hope that one of the highlights of your own year ahead will be a voyage, or two, with Cunard Line – we would love to welcome you back.

 

Best regards,

Peter Shanks

 

Thank you Peter, and when you look back, it’s certainly been an amazing year. It just leaves me to add my personal best wishes to everyone for a wonderful Christmas season wherever you are in the world. I’ll be back next Thursday with the 125^th and final post of 2009. Cheers Alastair

 

Countdown to Queen Elizabeth – 330 days

 

As I am writing this I have just got back from the Fincantieri Ship Yard in Monefalcone where Queen Elizabeth is currently under construction and what a transformation from when I was last there just over 2 months ago. I’ll hopefully get some pictures to you on Thursday and some video after that.

 

Meanwhile on Queen Victoria it was great to see a familiar face walk up the gangway a few weeks ago. While Queen Victoria’s Chief Engineer takes his holiday we welcomed Ronnie Keir for the first time on Queen Victoria. I last worked with Ronnie on Queen Mary 2 so it was good to catch up with him.

 

For those of you who don’t know Ronnie Keir, he was born and brought up in Clydebank, Scotland, within the sound of John Brown’s Shipyard, where most of the great Cunarders were built. He left school in 1964 and started a 5 year engineering apprenticeship in the shipyard. During his third and fourth year’s, work started on the new Cunard vessel Queen Elizabeth 2, where he was involved in the manufacture of the turbines and gearboxes for the new Cunard liner. Ronnie attended Clydebank Technical College during those years and was awarded a pass with credit in engineering craft practice by the City & Guilds Institute of London. 

 

After his apprenticeship was complete, and as a career at sea was the next step for most young shipyard engineers, Ronnie began working for J & J Denholms of Glasgow, and joined his first ship as junior engineer in May 1972 on a 36,000 ton bulk carrier running from the West coast of USA to Australia via Japan. Ronnie attended Glasgow College of Nautical Studies and over the years, in three month blocks, he gained his second and first class certificates of competency. In 2001 he was installed as a Fellow of the “Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology.”

 

Over the following 25 years Ronnie served on all types of ships with J & J Denholms, including tankers, container ships, roll on roll off ferries, diving support ships and passenger ships. Being appointed Chief Engineer of a high tech diving support vessel in the North Sea for the first time in 1987, was a moment of pride for Ronnie. However he feels the greatest highlight of his career was when he joined Cunard in January 2003, as Staff Chief Engineer, on Queen Elizabeth 2 in Los Angeles, a ship he last saw 35 years earlier, sailing down the River Clyde. This highlight was eclipsed in September of that year, when he was appointed to the new build team for Queen Mary 2, in St Nazaire, France, as the second Chief Engineer of Cunard’s latest and greatest liner.

 

Ronnie still lives in Scotland with his wife and two sons, within sight of where the great liners were built. Alas it is now a green field site again, but it seems fitting that a new Technical College has now been built on the very site of the slipways where the great liners were built, and the fitting out basin will now be transformed in to a small boat marina.

 

He was kind enough to offer to do an interview for the Blog, so here it is: -

 

Special Interview – Chief Engineer – Ronnie Keir

 

 

I know you have just joined Queen Victoria but how are you settling in.

Very well. I like the ship a lot, and it’s great to see lots of familiar faces amoungst the crew and technical dept.  I know most of the officers from QE2 and Queen Mary 2, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know some nice new faces as well.

 

Being involved with Queen Mary 2 from the beginning must have been an incredible experience – could you describe what it was like?

Being appointed to the yard as part of the new build team, and the second Chief Engineer after Brian Wattling, was a very proud moment for me. I helped build ships in John Brown’s ship yard, in Clydebank, in the sixties when I was an apprentice engineer and I watched them laying the keel of the QE2 when I was 17. I reached Staff Chief Engineer on QE2 and being chosen to go to Queen Mary 2 build, gave me the opportunity to say I was present and involved in the construction of Cunard’s two greatest modern day transatlantic liners. I think I am the only one in the world that can say that.

 

What has impressed you most about Queen Victoria and what was the biggest adjustment you had to make coming Queen Mary 2 and QE2?

My first impression was the beautiful décor, especially the Grand Lobby and the Royal Court Theatre. It was also easy to see the White Star Service Programme was working well, judging by the friendliness of the crew. My biggest adjustment was learning to stop looking for the fourth stairway. “D”! There weren’t any major adjustments required in the engine room as our company paperwork is the same on all ships, well nearly. The only thing I did have to do was familiarize myself with the engine control systems which are different on Queen Victoria.

 

What is the most frequent question you get asked – and how do you answer it?

“Can I see the engine room?” If I had a pound for every time I was asked that I would be retired by now! Unfortunately, due to modern health and safety regulations, we are not allowed to have visits to the engine room. I know in the old days they had it as part of the tours, but this isn’t possible any more so I explain this to our guests, and arrange to meet with them and talk engineering things.

 

Please could you tell us something about being a Chief Engineer that would surprise us?

When Chief Engineers go home on leave all their powers go away as well, as another Chief Engineer takes over. When at home I am tasked with all the “honeydoo’s” that have built up while I’ve been away, though that might not be too big a surprise to most.

 

I used to be a bus driver in Glasgow for 2 years, after my apprenticeship was completed and before I went to sea. Being a bus driver in Glasgow, can be challenging, especially at the weekends, when both teams are playing at home. On these routes all the drivers knew the words to all the team songs and sang along.  This proved to be the best way to avoid trouble!

 

I was also a member of the 15^th Battalion of The Parachute Regiment in the Territorial Army and have done over 30 aircraft jumps, including 2 from a hovering Wessex helicopter from 1000ft. I think that was an experiment as we were told we were the first to do it; but it went OK.  After the first 200 ft the canopy collapses inward with the downdraft of the rotor blades, and you fall another 200 ft before it opens completely again. Believe it or not this is me in action!

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                           

After your many years at sea, what are the most significant changes as an engineer that you have seen over the years?

I went to sea at 23 in May 1972, and joined my first ship in Japan: a bulk carrier. The ship had no Control Room; you stood on the middle plates and drove the engine, like the engineer on the footplate of a steam locomotive. Now we all have air conditioned Control Rooms, and since the 90’s the big change has been the introduction of computer controlled systems. But, as I am always quick to point out, the computer can’t fix everything. When the engine or a pump breaks down you still got to get the spanners out, and get dirty. So nothing’s changed there.

 

What does “We Are Cunard” mean to you?

I have great feeling of pride in working for the most famous shipping company in the world. Cunard is a prestigious company full of wonderful history, especially in my home town of Clydebank, where the name Cunard means workmanship and quality. In fact here are two street signs which act as a reminder to our heritage, just around the corner from my home:

 

 

 

                                                                                               

 

 

“We are Cunard” also means delivering White Star service. Since the merger of “White Star” and Cunard, we have used this name which was famous for its service, and today I believe White Star Service is the top of all service programs.

 

Where is your perfect holiday destination?

I would have to say Polynesia, Moorea and Bora Bora. It’s warm but not humid and although I sailed out there for a few years, I have never holidayed there. My wife and I also love Cornwall and we have good friends there in Freathy near Torpoint. This is the family on a recent holiday there:

 

 

We are also hoping to have a holiday in Tuscany soon, as I love Italy and my wife, being a vegetarian, loves pasta and we both love the wine.

 

Do you have any unfulfilled dreams?

I am quite content with my life so far, although I had a small yacht when I was single and I always liked the idea of getting another boat, perhaps a motor cruiser about 30 to 40 ft long. 

 

When you are on leave; what would be your perfect day?

We have a quite a large garden, and summer days in the garden followed by an evening BBQ with friends is always good. I also have a fully restored 1955 Triumph Tiger T110, 650 cc, so I like a nice day riding my motorcycle through our local country roads, up around Loch Lomond and the country side around Stirling and the Trossachs.

 

What is your favourite quote and who said it?

“If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours”.  I don’t know who said it. But it would make the world a happier and safer place.

 

Thank you so much Ronnie for taking the time to chat and give an insight in to your fascinating career. As promised I’ll be back on Thursday with those new pictures of Queen Elizabeth as well as lots of other ideas in the pipeline including another Guest Blog from legendary Social Hostess Maureen Ryan. Cheers for now – Alastair

 

 

Among the many celebrations on Queen Mary 2’s Around The British Isles Voyage, was the naming of the latest Star of the month. This is always a prestigious occasion where crew members are recognized for their outstanding White Star Service. This month Queen Mary 2’s winner was a member of the housekeeping department, who do such an amazing job looking after guest staterooms and the public areas of the ship. Before we get to that I’d like to thank you again for all the comments that we keep getting. We have been receiving more than ever, so please do keep them coming. Queen Mary 2 is on her way across to New York while Queen Victoria heads back to the sunshine of the Mediterranean and Queen Elizabeth – well she’s growing fast in Italy! I’ll be heading back there in a couple of weeks and can’t wait to see her progress and share that with you along with new pictures and video.

 

Now it’s time for this week in Cunard’s history for the week 30 October to 5 November

 

1 November 1921

Andania II is launched

 

2 November 2003

Queen Mary 2 undertakes her second set of sea trials and achieves a speed of 30 knots.

 

3 November 1970

QE2 makes her maiden call at Luanda, Angola

 

5 November 2004

QE2 becomes longest serving Cunard Express Liner surpassing RMS’s Aquitania’s 35 Years 6 months 1 day (1914 – 1949) by 2 days

 

 

As regular readers will know, we like to feature a “Star of the Month” from either Queen Mary 2 or Queen Victoria, each month. The title is awarded to just one crew member per ship each month as a result of guest and crew feedback and then consideration by our on board White Star Committee. The “Star of the Month”, also has their photo displayed prominently in the Grand Lobby for guests to see and it’s now a great pleasure to talk to Queen Mary 2’s latest star; Raul Dematera who leads the crew Housekeeping team.

 

 

 

 

 

His official title is Crew Housekeeping No.1, and he is responsible for a team of 16 staff, who between them ensure the highest standards of cleanliness in all the crew areas.

 

Raul is from the Philippines in the province of Sebu, in a city called Mandaue. He has a small knit family which consists of his wife Joseline, his son David as well as his mother in law.

 

 

 

 

 

He started his career at sea in 1992, with our sister company The Yachts of Seabourn. His first job on board was as a Picolo No.1 in the housekeeping department. Although the department is structured differently these days, they used to assist the bedroom stewards by cleaning and setting up the pantries, as well as collecting all the linen for the bedroom stewards. After fourteen years with The Yachts of Seabourn he decided to join Cunard, and joined the opening team of Queen Mary 2 in 2004. He began working as a utility in the crew housekeeping team and has worked his way up to Crew Housekeeping No.1.

 

He reports to Jose Afonso, the Crew Housekeeper, and he told me that they have been working together for the last twelve years. Here he is receiving his award with (from left to right) Hotel Manager, David Stephenson, Executive Housekeeper, Colin Watson, Jose Afonso and Commodore Warner.

 

 

 

 

 

As you can imagine Raul has a busy day which begins at 7.30am in the morning with a meeting with all the crew housekeeping team to discuss the work of the day, which he then allocates accordingly. Queen Mary 2 has very large crew areas so this keeps them occupied for most of the day and into the evening although they get a few hours break at lunchtime.

 

Raul and his team are particularly busy during embarkation and disembarkation as they are also involved with guests’ luggage. Raul has also been trained to use one of the ship’s forklift trucks (yes we do use them on board!), and helps move luggage cages and stores on embarkation days. He also helps out in the Crew Office (the equivalent of the Purser’s Office for the crew), helping new crew members to settle in.

 

During the voyage he and his team get involved in many of the crew events by decorating the venues. This doesn’t leave that much free time, but when he does get time off on sea days Raul likes to relax and watch movies and call home to speak to his family. On port days he likes to go out for a walk to get some fresh air; as he says “so I get to feel what it’s like to walk on land again!”

  

Raul is very proud to be working for Cunard and on Queen Mary 2 and says “We are Cunard means one big happy family to me. All 1240 crew members are like my brothers and sisters whom I love and look forward to seeing each and every day. I work in the back of the house but my mission is to support all those who work in the front of the house so they can give the best White Star Service to each and every Guest on board Queen Mary 2.”

 

When Raul is at home he loves to play basketball with his son and understandably likes to spend as much time as possible with his family. In fact he has already sent the winnings, from being awarded “Star of the Month”, to his wife to put towards his son David’s education.

 

As for the future Raul says “I am looking forward to seeing my son growing up and getting settled in life. Also I wish to work on the new Queen Elizabeth; that really would be a dream come true”. Raul also added “I would like to thank my team and all the crew members on board for all their help and support they have given and shared with me. Salamat – Thank you”

 

Thank you Raul for taking the time to talk to us and again our congratulations; the award sounds very well deserved. That’s it for another week but I’ll be back on Monday with a very special Guest Blog and of course more news from the fleet. Thanks again for logging on. Cheers for now – Alastair