Queen Mary Alternative Dining & Computer changes
Jun 2, 2011 | 3:36 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: NJ USA
Programs: AA EXP 2mm, MR AMB, HH SLV, Hyatt DISC, IC AMB, IHG DIA, UA SLV, AC 25K status
Posts: 1,276
Queen Mary Alternative Dining & Computer changes
Was on a crossing last week and discovered that Cunard has changed their policy on alternative dinner dining venues from no charge to $10 per person. Todd English pricing has not changed (I believe it was $20 for lunch, $35 dinner) Tables seemed empty so I suspect other passengers were as disappointed in this new policy as I was.
Also, they have removed the old computers in ConneXions on deck 2 and replaced with a room full of beautiful new Macs. Several free classes (3 per day) including Intro to Mac OS, Difference Mac vs Windows, Facebook intro, iTunes intro, general seminar on tablets although ipad was highlighted, Ebay, HDTV basics and more. All free. Paid $30 classes on Making a Family Tree, Photoshop Editing Techniques, and PowerPoint Presentations Workshop.
Free classes were packed so get there early as you can't sign up in advance and class size is limited. I didn't attend the paid classes and I think the pricing is way too steep. $10 sounds more reasonable if they feel they need to charge. I think they are testing all of these and Cunard will see what works and tweek pricing and class size. Great idea, however, most classes were very very basic geared as introductory to an older clientele. I would have appreciated more advanced classes.
Because the older PC's were removed they have eliminated and not replaced Macs with Rosetta Stone which I found disappointing.
Also, they have blocked Skype availability so beware if you find Skype necessary to keep in touch with the office or children.
Also, they have removed the old computers in ConneXions on deck 2 and replaced with a room full of beautiful new Macs. Several free classes (3 per day) including Intro to Mac OS, Difference Mac vs Windows, Facebook intro, iTunes intro, general seminar on tablets although ipad was highlighted, Ebay, HDTV basics and more. All free. Paid $30 classes on Making a Family Tree, Photoshop Editing Techniques, and PowerPoint Presentations Workshop.
Free classes were packed so get there early as you can't sign up in advance and class size is limited. I didn't attend the paid classes and I think the pricing is way too steep. $10 sounds more reasonable if they feel they need to charge. I think they are testing all of these and Cunard will see what works and tweek pricing and class size. Great idea, however, most classes were very very basic geared as introductory to an older clientele. I would have appreciated more advanced classes.
Because the older PC's were removed they have eliminated and not replaced Macs with Rosetta Stone which I found disappointing.
Also, they have blocked Skype availability so beware if you find Skype necessary to keep in touch with the office or children.
Last edited by fmkgb; Jun 2, 2011 at 3:38 pm Reason: Note, Mac replacement is in Classroom 6 only.
Jul 1, 2011 | 7:21 am
#2
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: louisville,ky usa
Programs: Delta Platinum, HH Diamond, , AA Gold, Bonvoy Titaniu
Posts: 635
Thanks for posting this. The FamilyTours is considering a QM crossing-- Can you elaborate on the $10 alternative dining as far as quality, variety and crowding go?
Jul 2, 2011 | 5:18 am
#3
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Phila, PA
Posts: 891
They also failed their health inspection.
>"The failed test was taken on the QM2 on June 10 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The organization's Vessel Sanitation Program pulls these unannounced checks on all cruise ships travelling to and from U.S. ports twice a year. The purpose is to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses, more commonly called Norovirus. A cruise ship belonging to a European-based company is subject to testing once it docks at a U.S. port."
>"The failed test was taken on the QM2 on June 10 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The organization's Vessel Sanitation Program pulls these unannounced checks on all cruise ships travelling to and from U.S. ports twice a year. The purpose is to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses, more commonly called Norovirus. A cruise ship belonging to a European-based company is subject to testing once it docks at a U.S. port."