cruise ship visits south queensferry

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Cruise Ship Schedule

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Arriving at South Queensferry

• Embarkation at Rosyth
• Arriving at Rosyth
• Arriving at Leith
• Arriving at Newhaven
• Arriving at Dundee
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Ships using South Queensferry anchor in the shadow of the world famous Forth Bridge, a guaranteed spectacle for photographers.

Passengers go ashore by tender vessel, a 10 minute journey under the spans of the bridge as the frequent train services run to and fro.

On arrival at the Hawes Pier, visitors will find a warm Scottish welcome, and information provided by our welcome guides.

For those visitors pre-booked on a ship based excursion, including pre-booked shuttle buses to Edinburgh, you should turn right at the top of the pier, where you will see fleets of buses waiting to take you on your way. You will have been given clear instructions on board, before disembarking.

For the independent traveller, you have many options.

On the left at the top of the pier you will find shuttle buses running into Edinburgh city centre. Close by there will be a queue of black taxi cabs who can take you to which ever destination you choose.

You can also take the train into Edinburgh – ask the welcome team for directions and prices or check online .

The welcome team will give you lots of ideas about other places to visit locally – the lovely village of South Queensferry is a few hundred metres to your right, with small shops and restaurants. Local guided walks may be available. Visitqueensferry.com

The Queen’s Ferry was so named because it brought the Queen from Dunfermline, the ancient Capital of Scotland to Edinburgh. You can visit Dunfermline (7 miles) by taxi or by train.

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Edinburgh (South Queensferry) United Kingdom

Edinburgh , the capital of Scotland, is built on an extinct volcano. The port of South Queensferry is located 18km east of Edinburgh. The Old Town is a maze of alleys and cobbled streets filled with historic castles, museums and cathedrals. After the Act of Union of 1707, Scotland joined England and many wealthy people abandoned Edinburgh for London. The Georgian terraces of the New Town were built with the aim of attracting them again. Both the Old City and the New Town are UNESCO World Heritage Sites . In August, Edinburgh hosts the Frindge Art Festival and the Military Tattoo .

The banks of Scotland issue their own currency which is at parity with the pound sterling.

Watch out for the rain. In July and August, there may be mosquitoes. Bring mosquito repellent.

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Useful Information

5% to 10% will be appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

GBP British pound

Time difference

from New York: +5h

from San Francisco: +7h

from London: None

Where is located the Port of South Queensferry Cruise Terminal

The harbour is located 18km east of Edinburgh. The ships are anchored in the Forth River and passengers transferred by small boats to Hawes pier in the town of South Queensferry.

Smaller ships can dock at The Ocean Terminal in Leith near the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Travelling around the Edinburgh (South Queensferry) Cruise Port

Dalmeny Train Station is located at the top of the hill. The journey to Edinburgh’s Waverley Station (near Princes Street) is about 20 minutes and the cost is about 4 pounds.

Once in Edinburgh the various sites are easily visited on foot.

Activities in Edinburgh (South Queensferry)

Neighborhoods.

The street leading from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace in the middle of the Old Town. Several local product shops are located here.

Calton Hill

Climb this hill for a beautiful view of the city and its monuments.

Arthur’s Seat

A hill in Holyrood Park with interesting views.

Holyrood Palace

The official residence of the Queen of Scotland. Admission costs £11 (June 2013). Visits are only possible when the royal family is away.

Scott Monument

Climb the 287 steps to see this monument on Princes Street. Admission costs £4 (June 2013).

Scottish Parliament

You can visit this modern building near Holyrood Palace for free.

Floors Castle

Residence of the Duke of Roxburghe, one of the largest inhabited castles in Scotland.

Glamis Castle

Royal residence since 1372.

Historical sites

Edinburgh castle.

This hilltop royal fortress is home to the jewels of Scottish royalty. A cannon shot is fired at 1PM every day except Sunday. Admission costs £16 (June 2013) and tickets can be purchased online to avoid the queue. Plan an hour and a half for the visit of the castle.

Dryburgh Abbey

Ruins of a 12th century monastery.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Visit the royal family former ship. You can see the royal apartments as well as the crew quarters and the engine room. Admission costs £12 (June 2013) and tickets can be purchased online. Plan at least an hour and a half for the visit if you want to take advantage of the audioguide.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

National gallery of scotland, scottish national gallery of modern art, royal botanic garden.

The visit to the gardens is free, but the visit to the greenhouses costs £4.50 (June 2013)

Medieval town where the Royal - Ancient Golf Club and the British Museum on the Golf are located.

Excursions in Edinburgh (South Queensferry)

Visitors on their first visit will probably want to tour the city and visit Edinburgh Castle.

Other excursions will show you attractions in Edinburgh’s vicinity.

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - Edinburgh (South Queensferry)
• Tourism Board - United Kingdom
• Visit Scotland
• Edinburgh (South Queensferry) on Wikipedia
• United Kingdom on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)

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Leith-Edinburgh (Newhaven-Rosyth-Queensferry, Scotland)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Ireland - UK - British Isles

Local Time 2024-09-27 09:47

Port Leith-Edinburgh cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Leith-Edinburgh, Newhaven-Rosyth-Queensferry, Scotland. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Edinburgh's principal cruise port is Port Leith, but some ships may alternatively stop at Newhaven (tender cruise port). Both seaports are located on Firth of Forth's southern shore. Firth of Forth (mainland Scotland) is River Forth's estuary. Aberdeen Harbour is approx 100 mi (160 km) away. Edinburgh is Scotland's capital city. By population (around 0,5 million, metro 1,35 million) it is ranked country's 2nd largest - after Glasgow . Edinburgh is also UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting international and UK tourist with its historic sights, castles, numerous entertainment and activities options, the annual Edinburgh Festival.

Forth Ports (Edinburgh's cruise port operator company) manages a total of 7 UK seaport terminals and anchorages - Leith, Dundee, London-Tilbury , plus the anchorages Rosyth, South Queensferry and Newhaven (England). In 2018, Edinburgh received 114 cruise ship calls with 150,000+ tourists (passengers and crew). In 2019, the number grew to 155,000.

Port Leith (Edinburgh)

Port Leith (locode GBLEI) is to the northeast of Edinburgh City and is within the city's council area. Leith is one of Edinburgh's most profitable enterprises, with annual cargo shipping capacity 1.5+ million tons.

Leith Docks became Edinburgh's port in early-19th-century, when there were built numerous facilities serving the shipbuilding and ship repair industries. During 19th-century, Leith also became a major port serving Scotland's herring export trade.

Currently, Port Leith is Scotland's biggest enclosed (harbor) deepwater port, with capability to handle vessels up to 50,000 DWT (deadweight tons). Port Leith provides easy access to major roads in Scotland, including A1 highway, Edinburgh by-pass, M8 and M9. It offers road and rail connections and is perfectly located for North Sea shipping operations of any kind. Port's busy cruising season is March through October, with roundtrip itineraries offered mainly by large liners operated by Cunard , Princess , MSC , Costa .

In January 2023, the cruiseferry Tallink Victoria I (permanently berthed at Imperial Dock and being chartered by the Scottish government to house Ukrainian refugees) became Port Leith's first vessel to receive shore-power . The technology allows berthed vessels to switch off their diesel engines/electricity generators and instead use electricity from the city grid for their onboard hotel services. In this case, the ship was provided with electricity generated from non-fossil fuels (wind turbines).

In January 2023 was also completed the Port's electrical network extension (connection to the Harbour Berth) that now allows shore-power supply to offshore construction vessels homeported in Leith.

Port Rosyth (Edinburgh)

An alternative cruise port for Edinburgh is Port Rosyth (locode GBROY), but it is rarely used. Large-sized liners usually anchor near South Queensferry (opposite to Rosyth), from where their passengers are tendered ashore. Port Rosyth is located across Forth Railway Bridge, approx 35-min drive distance from Edinburgh's downtown. Rosyth is a ferry port used by Blue Star Ferries .

Next photo shows South Queensferry's cruise ship anchorage area.

South Queensferry (aka "The Ferry") is a small port town located approx 10 mi (16 km) to the northwest of Edinburgh downtown. The town is between Forth Railway Bridge and Forth Road Bridge. The prefix "South" is used to distinguish it from the town "North Queensferry". Both towns are named for the established by Queen Margaret (aka Margaret of Wessex, 1045-1093) ferry service between them. The service was discontinued in 1964, when the Forth Road Bridge was inaugurated.

The above photo shows Rosyth Dockyard (part of the seaport). Rosyth Dockyard is a naval dockyard owned and operated by Babcock Marine Ltd (2007-founded subsidiary of Babcock International Group / multinational corporation). Before the company's privatization in 1987, the large shipyard complex was named "Royal Naval Dockyard Rosyth" and was operated as British Government-owned and contractor-managed facility. In 1997, Babcock International purchased the shipyard. Currently, this is the shipbuilding yard for the UK's newest and largest aircraft carriers of the Queen Elizabeth-class.

In 2017, the Fred Olsen -owned ship Black Watch offered a total of 8 cruises leaving roundtrip from Rosyth. Operated in the period August 14 through October 14, the roundtrip itineraries included 7-night Norwegian Fjords, 10-night Northern European cities, 16-night Canary Islands and Madeira . Also roundtrip from Rosyth, In 2017 the company offered (for the first time ever) 2 river cruises. The itineraries were themed "French Rivers" and "German Waterways".

According to statistical data provided by Peter Wilson (cruiseforth.com), for season 2019, from all the 110 scheduled to visit Edinburgh cruise liners, 34 were booked at Newhaven, 29 at Rosyth, 25 at Leith and 22 at Queensferry.

In October 2022 was announced the "Forth Green Freeport" project to transform Rosyth into a modern port, an advanced shipbuilding and manufacturing center as well as a major logistics hub. The project (budgeted ~GBP 1 billion/~EUR 1,14B) included the construction of a new cargo terminal, a new rail freight connection, manufacturing facilities for the marine renewable energy industry (offshore wind farms) and green power generation.

• Forth Green Freeport covers an area of ~150 hectares/~370 acres (sites within Rosyth and Burntisland) owned by the companies Babcock International Group plc, Forth Ports Ltd and Scarborough Muir Group Ltd.
• Forth Green Freeport's employment at Rosyth and Burntisland included ~7000 newly created local jobs in addition to ~50,000 new jobs across Scotland.

In July 2022, DFDS Seaways (Danish ferry company) signed with Ptarmigan Shipping an agreement for a new freight ferry route connecting Rosyth with Zeebrugge-Bruges Belgium (opened in 2023)

Leith-Edinburgh cruise terminal

Smaller-sized cruise ships to Edinburgh dock at Leith port's cruise terminal located approx 3 mi (5 km) from downtown Edinburgh. Cruise vessels enter the port from River Forth's estuary. The dock can accommodate vessels with max LOA length 720 ft (220 m).

Newhaven UK is a tender cruise port, meaning passengers are tendered between the anchored ship and the quay (~10-min ride). Newhaven Port Authority complimentary provides bus transfer to Ocean Terminal's shopping mall. At the quay, there are a taxi rank and a bus station.

Port Leith is an important destination for Northern Europe's ship cruising industry. The port handles around 40 cruise vessels and 20,000 passengers annually. Leith Cruise Terminal provides good facilities for turnarounds (roundthrips) and transit calls.  Its central location is convenient for shore excursions and tours to Edinburgh and the surrounding areas.

The cruise ship terminal building features a modern design and has all the necessary passenger facilities, including waiting area, phone, internet, toilets. More amenities are offered by the "Ocean Terminal" shopping mall, located at 5-min walking distance from the Leith cruise port terminal. The mall has shops, banking facilities, restaurants, cafes, car parking, and is served by Lothian Buses lines 11, 22, 34, 35, 36. Lothian Buses started the direct service "X99 Cruiselink" Queensferry-Edinburgh (in 2018) and Newhaven-Edinburgh (in 2019).

At Port Leith are available taxis and shuttle buses. The port's parking area is adjacent to the cruise terminal and can accommodate up to 450 vehicles (cars and tour buses). The closest to the cruise port airport (Edinburgh Airport) is about 30 min ride. The closest to the port railway station (Waverley) is about 15-min ride from the cruise terminal.

At Ocean Terminal is also the permanently berthed Royal Yacht Britannia (officially "HMY Britannia"). This is Queen Elizabeth II's former royal yacht, operated in the period 1954-1997.

Large cruise ships dock at Newhaven (Edinburgh City's district) located between Leith and Granton. It is approx 3 km (2 ml) north of downtown Edinburgh. These liners actually anchor near Newhaven and their passengers are transported between the anchorage point and the tender pier via tender boats. This distance is approx 1,7 mi (3 km) or about 15-min ride.

At Port Rosyth, due to the lack of public transportation service, the available ways for cruise ship passengers are taxis (at the passenger / ferry terminal building) and eventually shuttle bus service provided by the cruise company.

Most cruise operators offer shuttles to Edinburgh's downtown. This service is at fee pp. The local bus operator Cramond Coaches provides an alternative shuttle service to downtown. Cramond Coaches staff will be waiting at the pier. Their buses go to Charlotte Square, from where passengers can catch the green bus (hop-on / hop-off) for the popular Edinburgh Tour. Cruise line's bus shuttle offers 25-min travel to Waterloo Place (a green bus stop).

Leith-Edinburgh tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

• Edinburgh castle: the castle is the most popular landmark in the city. It is two kilometres from Edinburgh cruise port. It is located on a volcanic rock’s top. The view from the highest point offers a panorama of the Firth of Forth and Fife. Inside you can see the Great Hall, the St Margaret’s Chapel and the Stone of Destiny.
• The Royal Mile: the one-mile long road connects the Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, both Royal Residences.
• Royal Botanic Garden: the second oldest (after Oxford’s) British botanic garden. It dates from 1670 and was originally medicinal plants garden. It is located in the north of the city and is amazing, especially in the spring time.
• Edinburgh Fringe Festival: the world’s largest art festival is held for three weeks every August.
• National Museum of Scotland: located on Chambers Street. It was reopened in July 2011 after a renovation for £47 million. It houses 16 galleries and displays more than 8,000 different objects.
• Camera Obscura: spend a really fun time! Located in Victorian rooftop chamber near the Edinburgh Castle’ entrance.

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Edinburgh Cruise Port (S. Queensferry) | 10 Best Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland (United Kingdom), is known for its iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop the dormant volcanic cliff of Castle Rock and its beautiful Old Town, home to historic churches, museums, and squares.

Edinburgh attracts millions of tourists each year with its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and wide range of shopping and dining opportunities.

There are four ports where cruise ships calling to Edinburgh may dock/anchor, and they are all within a 15-40-minute drive from downtown Edinburgh. South Queensferry is the main port for large cruise ships.

In this article, I share practical information on the South Queensferry cruise terminal, getting to Edinburgh from this port, and the 10 best things to do in Edinburgh.

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Edinburgh Cruise Port at South Queensferry

There are four locations where cruise ships arriving in Edinburgh can dock/anchor:

• South Queensferry – Located 10 miles northwest of Edinburgh city center, S. Queensferry is best known for its picturesque Forth Bridge, a 1.5-mile-long red railway bridge that crosses the Firth of Forth River. The cruise ships anchor in the firth and use tender boats to transfer the passengers to Hawes Pier, from where they can take a shuttle bus to Edinburgh city center.
• Leith – This port is located only 3 miles from Edinburgh and it’s only used for small cruise vessels.
• Newhaven – Cruise ships may also anchor in this harbour located only a 5-minute drive northwest of Leith.
• Rosyth – A port is located 15 miles northwest of Edinburgh, across the Forth Bridge.

South Queensferry is known for its picturesque waterfront, historic buildings, and stunning views of the Forth Bridges. You can reach the town center in a 10-minute walk.

The tender ride takes about 15-20 minutes. Upon arriving at Hawes Pier, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of traditional bagpipes and friendly locals offering free maps and other services.

Getting to Edinburgh from S. Queensferry cruise port

Guests who booked the shore excursions with the cruise ship will meet their tour guides and buses on the right side upon exiting the pier.

On the left side, you’ll see the bus stop for shuttle buses operated by “ Lothian “, a local bus company. Bus X99 runs every 15 minutes and will take you to Edinburgh city center in about 30 minutes’ ride. You can purchase the bus tickets on the pier and the round-trip costs 12£ (price from 2024).

The drop-off point in Edinburgh is on National Cycle Rte 75, within a 5-minute walk from the iconic Scott Monument. Upon returning to the ship, save at least 45 minutes for the bus ride due to the traffic.

Alternative options for getting to Edinburgh from S. Queensferry include the train and taxis. “Dalmeny” train station is located a 10-minute walk from the pier at the top of the hill (110 steps) and trains run twice per hour. The train ride takes 20 minutes and you can check the schedules at the https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ . Hop on Hop off buses may be available in front of the train station.

In Edinburgh, you’ll get off at Waverley Railway Station, located near Princes Street, within a 10-minute walk from the Old Town.

Taxis are also available at Hawes Pier and prices are clearly displayed. The currency in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP). Most places will not accept euros or US dollars, however, credit cards are widely accepted.

If you prefer to book a shore excursion , you can do it through your cruise ship or an independent tour operator. Keep in mind that cruise ship prices can be even up to 3x higher than independent tours’ prices.

When I visited Scotland on a cruise, I booked all of my excursions via local operators. I had a great time and luckily no issues, the tours were all on time and adjusted to the cruise ship’s “All aboard time”. Explore Edinburgh tours and activities

10 Best Things To Do In Edinburgh Cruise Port

From the shuttle bus drop-off point near the Scott Monument, you can easily walk to the city’s main attractions and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Here’s the list of the best things to do in this incredible city!

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, perched atop Castle Rock and offering stunning views of the city. Steeped in history, this ancient 11th-century fortress served as a royal residence, a military stronghold, and a prison throughout history. Nowadays, it is a world-famous tourist attraction and the second-most-visited castle in the United Kingdom.

The castle dominates Edinburgh’s city center and takes at least a half-day to visit. Visitors can explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum within its walls.

The castle is open daily and guided tours are offered. It’s highly recommended to book the tickets in advance, as they sell out far in advance, especially in the summer months.

When visiting the castle, remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there are plenty of steps and uneven surfaces to navigate.

Explore Edinburgh Castle tours and tickets

2. The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s historic heart, stretching from the majestic Edinburgh Castle down to the impressive Palace of Holyroodhouse. This historic, cobbled street is packed with history, culture, and a variety of attractions and landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral, the Real Mary King’s Close, and the Scottish Parliament.

It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere, browse unique shops, and sample local cuisine at the many pubs and restaurants. The Royal Mile is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time to enjoy everything it has to offer.

Check out Royal Mile tours and activities

3. St Giles’ Cathedral

Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, the 12th-century St Giles’ Cathedral is a stunning medieval church located on the Royal Mile. With its striking crown steeple, the cathedral has been a focal point of worship for over 900 years and played a significant role in Scotland’s religious history.

Inside, you can admire beautiful stained glass windows, intricate stonework, and the Thistle Chapel, which honors the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest order of chivalry. Visitors are welcome to explore the cathedral, with guided tours available for a small fee to provide deeper insight into its rich history.

Admission is free, though donations are appreciated to help with the upkeep. Remember to check the opening hours, as they can vary, especially during services and special events.

Explore St Giles’ Cathedral tours and tickets

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, sits at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, at the opposite end of Edinburgh Castle. This magnificent palace has a rich history, having been home to many Scottish royals since the 16th century, including Mary, Queen of Scots.

Visitors can explore the State Apartments, filled with stunning tapestries and furniture, and the historic chambers where Mary lived. The ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the beautiful gardens offer additional sights to enjoy.

Audio tours are included with admission, providing fascinating insights into the palace’s past and its role in modern ceremonies.

The palace is open year-round, but it’s wise to check for any closures due to royal events. To make the most of your visit, book tickets in advance and arrive early to avoid crowds.

Explore Palace of Holyroodhouse tours and tickets

5. Victoria Street

Known for its colorful buildings, unique shops, and lively atmosphere, Victoria Street is the city’s most picturesque street and a must-visit destination in Edinburgh!

Winding down from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket, this iconic street is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies. Fans will love visiting The Great Wizard , a magical store dedicated to all things Harry Potter, as well as Museum Context, a small shop specializing in officially licensed Harry Potter-themed clothing and souvenirs.

Beyond its literary connections, Victoria Street offers a variety of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the independent shops selling everything from antiques to artisanal goods.

With its charming architecture and bustling vibe, Victoria Street is perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping, and enjoying a coffee at one of its cozy cafes.

Explore Victoria Street tours and activities

6. Grassmarket

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Grassmarket is a historic market square known for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.

Once the site of public executions, it’s now a bustling hub of pubs, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine. The area is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, with street performers and markets adding to its charm.

Notable landmarks include the White Hart Inn , one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, and the vibrant Saturday market. For history enthusiasts, the nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard is worth a visit.

Grassmarket is also a great spot to start a walking tour of the Old Town. To make the most of your visit, go in the evening when the area comes alive with nightlife, or during the day for a more leisurely experience.

Check out Grassmarket tours and activities

7. Scott Monument

The Scott Monument, a striking Gothic structure in the heart of Edinburgh, is dedicated to the famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Standing tall in Princes Street Gardens, this iconic monument offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the city from its three viewing platforms.

Climbing the 287 narrow steps to the top is a must-do for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and breathtaking scenery. Inside, you can learn about Scott’s life and work through various exhibits.

The surrounding gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and the nearby Princes Street offers excellent shopping and dining options. For the best experience, visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the views, and wear comfortable shoes for the climb.

Only guided tours are offered (12 visitors per group) and the tickets can be purchased on-site.

Check out Scott Monument tours and activities

8. Scottish National Gallery

Located on Princes Street in the heart of Edinburgh, the National Galleries of Scotland houses an impressive collection of fine art from the Renaissance to the early 20th century.

The gallery features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, and Rubens, as well as notable works by Scottish artists like Sir Henry Raeburn and William McTaggart. One of the highlights is the famous “The Monarch of the Glen” by Sir Edwin Landseer.

Admission to the gallery is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors. To make the most of your visit, take advantage of the free guided tours and audio guides available. A gift shop and a cafe are available on-site.

9. National Museum of Scotland

Situated on Chambers Street in Edinburgh, this fascinating museum features a great collection of exhibits spanning natural history, world cultures, science, technology, and Scottish history.

This expansive museum features everything from ancient fossils and Egyptian mummies to cutting-edge technology and interactive displays. Highlights include the stunning Grand Gallery, the iconic Lewis Chessmen, and Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal.

With free admission, the museum is perfect for families, history buffs, and curious minds of all ages. Plan to spend several hours exploring its diverse collections and engaging activities.

The museum also offers guided tours, interactive exhibits for kids, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.

To make the most of your visit, check out the museum’s schedule for special exhibitions and events, and take breaks at the on-site café and gift shop.

Explore National Museum of Scotland tours and activities

10. Scottish Whiskey Tasting

Scottish whisky, often referred to as “Scotch,” is world-renowned for its rich flavors and centuries-old distilling traditions. In Edinburgh, whisky tasting is a popular activity for visitors wanting to experience this iconic Scottish spirit.

The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile is a top spot, offering guided tours and tastings that cater to both novices and connoisseurs. You can also visit local whisky bars like The Bow Bar or Whiski Rooms for an extensive selection of single malts and blends.

For the best experience, join a tasting session where knowledgeable guides explain the history, production process, and tasting techniques.

Booking a tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. During the tasting, make sure to start with lighter whiskies before moving to stronger, peatier varieties to fully appreciate the range of flavors.

Explore Scotch Whiskey tasting tours and activities

From the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile to the stunning views from the Scott Monument and the engaging exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city! Don’t miss the chance to experience a Scottish whisky tasting for a true taste of local tradition.

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Tours from South Queensferry Cruise Port | Go Scotland Tours

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Private Full Day Tour of Edinburgh with Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle

• Tour ID: 1207
• Tour theme: Historic and Cultural Tours ,
• Duration: 1 Day - 8 hours approx.
• Starts from: Edinburgh, South Queensferry

Full day Private tour of Edinburgh. Begin with a tour of the New Town, then Grassmarket, visit Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, then a Royal Mile walking tour

Private Shore Excursion from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1277

Hire a driver guide for a private shore excursion from Edinburgh. Private tours the Edinburgh Cruise Ports of Ocean Terminal, South Queensferry and Rosyth ...

Private Tour to St Andrews and Fife

• Tour ID: 1075
• Starts from: South Queensferry, Edinburgh

Privately guided tour from Edinburgh to St Andrews, with private walking tour of the Cathedral, Castle and University, then free time to see the Home of Golf ..

Private Shore Excursion to Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1508
• Duration: 1 Day - 6-8 hours
• Starts from: South Queensferry

Private Day tour from Queensferry or Rosyth Cruise Port to Edinburgh and the Waterfront. Visit elegant Royal Yacht Britannia home to The Queen for over 40 year.

Edinburgh at your Leisure Private Shore Excursion

• Tour ID: 1510
• Duration: 1 Day - 6 hours

Private Tour from the cruise ship ports of Queensferry and Rosyth. City tour of Edinburgh and a day at your leisure for shopping and exploring the Royal Mile..

Private Tour of Edinburgh and Rosslyn Chapel

• Tour ID: 1084

This is a private tour with a half day tour of Edinburgh in the morning to Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. After we then go to the famous Rosslyn Chapel...

Whisky Tour

Glenkinchie Distillery and Johnnie Walker Experience Private Tour from Edinburgh

• Tour ID: 1598
• Tour theme: Whisky Tours ,

A full day of exploring the spirit of Scotland and the lowland whisky region. Your guide can pick you up from your hotel in Edinburgh or cruise ship port. Glenkinchie Distillery, Portobello Beach, Sheeps Heid, Holyrood Disitllery Whisky and Gin.

Private Shore Excursion to Edinburgh Underground Vaults

• Tour ID: 1509
• Duration: 1 Day - 7-8 hours

Private tour from Queensferry or Rosyth to Edinburgh. This tour goes to the Underground Vaults of Edinburgh, then after a city tour of Edinburgh and Royal Mile.

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South Queensferry cruise port

Cruise port South Queensferry

Cruise port South Queensferry is the gateway to Edinburgh. Unfortunately there is no berth large enough to facilitate cruise ships. Therefore cruise ships will have to up the Forth. Anchor in front of the Forth bridge and tender the cruise passengers to shore to a town called South Queensferry. From here you will have multiple option of how to go to Edinburgh.

Tender dock South Queensferry

Tenders will all arrive at a small pier in the Maid of the Forth port underneath the Forth bridge. At the cruise tender pier you will find some taxis, public transportation and shore excursions companies. On the opposite side of the road you will also find some restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. The walk to South Queensferry city center takes about 10 minutes. Simply go right when you exit the dock.

Going from South Queensferry cruise pier to Edinburgh

You will 4 options to go to Edinburgh from the South Queensferry cruise pier. You can either take an organised shore excursion that you can book on board your ship.

The X99 bus from South Queensferry cruise pier to Edinburg

You can also take the semi public transportation bus called the “X99 Edinburgh” which is a double decker bus that will take you to Edinburghs city center. You will find this bus stop directly on the left hand side as you exit the pier. You buy a ticket at the bus and enjoy a simple ride into the city center. The bus returning to the ship is called X99 Hawes pier.

Take the train from South Queensferry to Edinburgh Waverly

Option number 3 is to take the train into Edinburgh Waverly. 1/2 a mile from the cruise dock you will find the train station called Dalmeny. Please know that it is a bit of a climb to get there as you will start walking at sea level and the train station is up at the start of the bridge. To get to the train station simply follow the signs in the port that point you to it. Which means that when exiting the cruise dock you take a left. The walk is about 10 minutes and from here you catch the train directly to the city center station in Edinburgh which is called Waverly. Trains to Edinburgh depart around twice an hour. Same goes for coming back.

Taxi from South Queensferry cruise dock to Edinburgh

Another option is taking a taxi from the cruise dock to Edinburgh. A one way ride with a taxi that can seat 5 or 6 passengers will cost you around 30 Sterling pound. You can catch the taxi directly at the cruise pier. Simple follow the signs at the exit of the pier. You will find the taxi rank directly to the right hand side, next tot the cruise dock.

Taxi prices at South Queensferry cruise dock to Edinburgh

Taxi prices are clearly displayed on the cruise dock. Please expect the following prices for destinations: South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh Castle: 32 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh Charlotte square (city centre): 30 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh Holyrood Palace / Parliament: 35 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh Waverly station: 32 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh airport: 30 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Edinburgh Dunfermline Abbey: 30 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – Rosslyn Chapel: 45 pound South Queensferry cruise dock – St. Andrews: 130 pound The prices is one way, per vehicle which can seat up to 5 or 6 passengers.

Please know that prices are subject to change and they are based on approximate metered fares. Which means that these are not fixed prices. They are an estimate according to “Central Taxis” which is Edinburgh’s largest taxi fleet. Taxis will take credit and debit card. Paying in cash is not a requirement.

FAQ about cruise port South Queensferry

What is the name of the cruise pier in South Queensferry? The cruise ships tender will bring cruise passengers to Hawes pier in the Maid of the Forth port, South Queensferry, Scotland. Are cruise ships docking or tendering at South Queensferry? Cruise ships tender passengers to shore in South Queensferry. Is there a hop on hop off bus in South Queensferry? No, there is not. Can I take a taxi from South Queensferry to Edinburgh? Yes, you can. It will cost around 30 – 35 pound one way. Where can I find the X99 bus from South Queensferry to Edinburgh? Directly to the left hand side when you exit the tender dock.

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Cruises visiting South Queensferry, United Kingdom

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You will be anchored and tendered to South Queensferry, within sight of the famous Forth Railway Bridge.

Most cruise lines offer shuttles to the center of Edinburgh (16.90 Euros), but only announce this the night before, so not to disturb their excursion sales.

The ship's shuttle (25 minutes trip) will drop you off at Waterloo Place, just a few steps from the point where all hop on/off buses start. Just past Waverley Station.

The local bus company Lothian run buses right at the quay side into Edinburgh taking approx 35 mins, at a cost of £12.00 each return. They drop you in Saint David`s Street which is very central, this is opposite the Scott Monument, so it is easy to find you way back to pick up the bus.Ticket can be used all day on local buses in Edinburgh.

Taxis have a fixed one way rate per taxi (not per person) for 25 Pound.

Climb a small hill (110 steps!) to the railway station at Dalmeny and spent the day in Edinburgh . Trains are every 20 minutes with a journey time of 15 minutes, and cost just over £8, for a return ticket. The off peak return rail fare from Dalmeny to Edinburgh is £5.80

Video of the tender into South Queensferry.

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Monthly Climate Averages for Queensferry Edinburgh Scotland United Kingdom

Sightseeing:

You can walk the waterfront, admire the little Priory Church of St Mary, browse the handful of remaining shops and relax on the sidewalk cafes.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

For Edinburgh click here .

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Nearby Places:

Shopping and food.

The currency throughout the UK is the pound (£). You may also hear the slang term quid for pounds. Scottish bank notes are frowned upon in other parts of the UK, so change the notes before leaving Scotland.

Please make sure you get change in English notes as Scottish notes are not everywhere accepted in the rest of the UK.

Cash machines (ATM) or less formally 'holes in the wall' are very widely available and usually dispense £10 and £20 notes.

Visa, Mastercard and Maestro, are accepted by most shops and restaurants.

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Communication:

English is spoken throughout the country, but sometimes with heavy accents!

Many locations on the High St have free WiFi including the museum.

There is also free WiFi on the public bus 43. The local emergency telephone number is 999, however the EU-wide 112 can also be used.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Shopping hours are in general:

Small stores 6 or 7 days a week (10am - 6pm) Larger stores in general stay open til' 9PM Hyper marts often 24/7

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Queensferry Shore Excursion

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South Queensferry Pier

Small Group Tour of Edinburgh from Queensferry Cruise Port and Newhaven

Go Scotland Tours will be offering an exclusive small group tour for cruise ship passengers arriving to South Queensferry and Newhaven in Edinburgh. This is a fully guided tour of Edinburgh with a Qualified Blue Badge Guide. Visit the mysterious Ross

Go Scotland Tours  will be offering an  exclusive small group tour for cruise ship passengers arriving to South Queensferry and Newhaven in Edinburgh. This is a  fully guided tour of Edinburgh with a Qualified Blue Badge Guide . Visit the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel, then enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh's Old and New towns, a  private walking tour of Edinburgh Castle  followed by an optional walking tour of historic Edinburgh.

When arriving off the tender look for your Edinburgh Tourist Guide holding a  Go Scotland Tours sign . Take a moment to taken the amazing engineering of the  Forth Bridges , including the rail bridge which is a UNESCO sight. From Queensferry we take a 45min drive outside the city to  Rosslyn Chapel . This is an amazing piece of stone architecture from the Renaissance times that is full of mystery, myth and Templar Knights stories. It has become most famous for being included in the Dan Brown novel, the  Da Vinci Code .

After we visit Rosslyn Chapel and hear the history talk we will make our way into  Edinburgh . We then take a drive through Edinburgh's Royal Park,  Holyrood Park . Here you can see views from the city's tallest hill,  Arthur's Seat  (*Please note this is not guaranteed as the High Road is sometimes closed). If time permits we will make a short photo stop at  Holyrood Palace  (*note this is not an interior visit). This was home to  Mary Queen of Scots who lead quite a dramatic life. The current Royal Family stay here whenever in town and the Queen holds her garden party here every summer.

Then we make our way up the historic Royal Mile to  Edinburgh Castle . Here you will enjoy a  personal guided walking  tour of the castle. Hear the stories of how the castle has been built throughout the centuries. From the esplanade we head up through original iron (yett) gate to see the  one o'clock gun . Then up  St Margaret's Chapel  and the famous medieval cannon called  Mons Megg . Ending in the Crown Square where you will have free time to check out the  Crown Jewels  and  Stone of Destiny .

In the afternoon you will have the option to continue your walking tour through some of  Edinburgh's famous closes . We will then explore  Greyfriar's Kirkyard , a fascinating Victorian Cemetery with many stories like the famous Hero Dog  Bobby , the Poltergeist Mackenzie and many connections to  Harry Potter . Alternatively you can skip the  walking tour  for more time to shop on the  Royal Mile .

Before heading back to the ship we will take a short tour through the  New Town . A panoramic tour through the Georgian streets built up during the  Scottish Enlightenment . 

Join us on an Exclusive Small Group Tour from Queensferry!

Day by Day Itinerary:

08.45am board minibus

9am departure

9.45-10.45am Rosslyn Chapel

10.45-12.00pm Panoramic Tour; Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood, Royal Mile

12.00-1.00pm Edinburgh Castle

1.00-2pm free time

2-3.30pm Royal Mile Walking Tour

3.30-4pm New Town panoramic Tour

5pm latest return to the port

From £95 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

May — October

Contact details

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From £95 Per Adult

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Go scotland tours.

Welcome to Go Scotland Tours , your online one stop shop for tours in Scotland. Go Scotland Tours offers various tours from the most recommended tour guides in Scotland. Sightseeing Scotland Tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and selected cruise ship ports. Go Scotland Tours also arranges private driver guided tours and customized itineraries. Let us be your personal tour guide, tailor-make your own bespoke Scotland tour or choose from our selection of regular Scotland tours.

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Cruises visiting South Queensferry, United Kingdom

What cruises visit south queensferry, united kingdom during 2024, 2025 and 2026.

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Three bridges cruise.

Take in spectacular views of the Three Bridges & the Edinburgh skyline, the seals and other marine wildlife.

INCHCOLM ISLAND CRUISE

Cruise along the Firth of Forth and view the Three Bridges and the 12th century Inchcolm Abbey. Look out for the seals and other marine wildlife

Boat & Bridges Tours

Explore the area by bus and boat on one of our Boat & Bridges tours, in conjunction with Bright Bus Tours.

BLACKNESS CASTLE CRUISE

Enjoy one of the best day’s out in Scotland on your cruise and take in the views of Blackness Castle.

The Forth Boat Tours Experience.

The Firth of Forth is brimming with history, adventure and tales of daring do. But the real stars of a Forth Tours cruise are the Three Bridges, scenery, seals and puffins.

Our cruises are not only a great day out in themselves but they also allow you the opportunity to explore some of the very best attractions and sightseeing in Scotland.

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All tickets include a three bridges cruise, the falkirk wheel.

View the three bridges on a Forth Boat Tours cruise and travel on the Falkirk Wheel with an Original Tour ticket.

The Forth Valley Pass is the perfect ticket to explore the Forth Bridge on a Three Bridges Cruise, The Falkirk Wheel and Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway.

Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Journey by sea and rail with a Three Bridges Cruise and a steam train ride on the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway.

Exclusive Private Charter

Our vessels are capable of hosting both corporate events, and private parties.

What could be better than celebrating the occasion on the UNESCO World Heritage surroundings of the Firth of Forth.

Enquire today about our range of Private Charters

Group Bookings

Forth Boat Tours welcomes group bookings from parties of all sizes and interests. From school outings and local community groups to coach parties, everyone is welcome on board to be part of our award winning cruise experience.

Great days out in Edinburgh for groups of 15 passengers and more.

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Enjoy 10% off ticket price for up to 4 people.

DYNAMIC EARTH

10% OFF one of Edinburgh’s leading tourist attractions.

SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE

The perfect journey into the world of Scottish Whisky.

Inchcolm Weddings by Forth Boat Tours

Arrive by sea, and get married in one of Scotland’s most historic buildings.

We have a range of wedding packages available to make your special day perfect. Enquire today about one of our Inchcolm Island Weddings.

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Hawes Pier South Queensferry, EH30 9TB OR Port Edgar Marina South Queensferry, EH30 9SQ

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South Queensferry (Edinburgh), Scotland, United Kingdom

History was made in this port, just across the Firth of Forth from Rosyth, when the future Queen Margaret of Scotland arrived around 1071. Her devout religious attitude established "Queen's Ferry" as the place for pilgrims from abroad to alight on their way to St. Andrews—Scotland's ecclesiastical capital in the Middle Ages. Margaret's legacy continues less than a dozen miles away at Edinburgh Castle. A key attraction up on the castle's rock is St. Margaret's Chapel, believed to be the oldest section of the fortifications and the place where she worshipped. There's more to Scotland's capital than the Castle, though. Edinburgh proudly displays multiple exhibits on national and international scientific achievement at the National Museum of Scotland, as well as some fantastic works of visual art at the National Galleries of Scotland. South Queensferry's moorings are also within easy striking distance of Scotland's largest metropolis: the city of Glasgow. Transformed in many ways since the post–WWII days when it had a reputation for grime and crime, the city is among the most vibrant in the U.K.: It is Scotland's de-facto capital of modern culture, with the hippest DJs and most accomplished conceptual artists.

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Cruise under all the Forth Bridges and view amazing wildlife.

Embark on a breathtaking 90-minute sightseeing cruise with us and sail beneath all three iconic Forth Bridges, heading towards the captivating Inchcolm Island. Experience the unparalleled beauty and impressive engineering of the Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the Queensferry Crossing like never before. Join us for a unique adventure on the water.

3 hour Inchcolm Landing Trip

Cruise & Explore Inchcolm Island with 1.5 hours ashore.

Enhance your 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise by including a visit to Inchcolm Island. Explore the historic Abbey, admire the diverse wildlife, unwind on the peaceful beaches, and savour the breathtaking views.

Seal Pup special

3 hour Winter Cruise from Hawes Pier in South Queensferry

3 Hour Special Winter Cruise down to Inchkeith Island to see the newly born seal pups. There is no landing on Inchkeith, but you will be able to see the seal pups from a respectful distance from the boat.

Christmas Folk Music cruise

3 hour Christmas evening cruise with Folk Band

Join us for a magical Folk Evening Christmas Cruise aboard the Maid of the Forth! Celebrate the festive season with live folk music, warm holiday cheer, and stunning views of the Forth Bridges, all while cruising through the moonlit waters. Enjoy seasonal treats, glass of prosecco, Steak supper and an unforgettable evening filled with music, laughter, and the spirit of Christmas.

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Cunard Queen Anne cruise review: A lovely new ship that's still coming into its own

Editor's Note

Are you thinking of a cruise on Cunard 's new Queen Anne ? Be warned: It's not like any Cunard ship you've seen before.

The storied cruise brand's first new vessel in 14 years is notably more contemporary in its look and feel than the line's three other ships, including the iconic Queen Mary 2 .

It also offers venues that embrace the latest trends of travel and cruising in a way that Cunard ships haven't done in the past.

As I've seen on two visits to Queen Anne since it debuted four months ago, including a weeklong stay in September as it sailed the Norwegian coast, the $600 million vessel offers more choice in dining and entertainment, more wellness options, and more of a focus on onboard celebrations than we've ever seen on a Cunard ship.

That's no small thing, given that Cunard has fielded 149 ships in its 184-year history.

Still, even as Queen Anne ushers in a new era for Cunard, it's a vessel that holds true to the traditional values at the core of the line — particularly a formality and elegance that harks back to the grand old days of ocean liner travel.

Overview of Queen Anne

Queen Anne is the new belle of the ball when it comes to Cunard ships. Unveiled in May, it's far younger and more up to date than the three other ships in the Cunard fleet, which range from 14 to 20 years in age. It also has a smorgasbord of new-for-the-line dining and entertainment venues that tap into the latest trends in hospitality.

Unlike other Cunard vessels, for instance, Queen Anne features a wide array of extra-charge eateries, ranging from a Mediterranean cuisine venue where the dishes are sprinkled with African and Arabic influences to one of the first contemporary Indian restaurants on a cruise ship.

That's on top of the four relatively formal main restaurants that have long been at the core of the Cunard dining experience (one each for each class of onboard cabins — if you're in a Britannia-class cabin, your main eatery is the Britannia Restaurant; if you're in a Princess Grill suite, your main eatery is the Princess Grill).

Queen Anne also has a broader array of entertainment options than past Cunard ships, including an all-new cabaret venue that is home to a murder mystery theater show for part of every cruise.

Like all Cunard ships, it's a vessel that maintains longtime ocean liner traditions such as gala evenings where passengers wear black tie and ballgowns and nightly dancing in a grand ballroom (something you no longer find on most ships).

But alone for now in the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne aims to bridge the gap between such traditions and a more contemporary sort of cruising — not just in the venues it offers on board but in its overall look and feel.

It's been a change that hasn't been without controversy. Some Cunard regulars have mercilessly (and sometimes hilariously) panned the ship at online review sites, citing both the new look and what they say are obvious design flaws.

Queen Anne also clearly has suffered from teething pains in its first four months at sea, with Cunard fans reporting listless service, mediocre food in some eateries and uninspired entertainment. These are all things that I saw, too — so much so that I'm hesitant to recommend that passengers book this ship just yet. While lovely, it's not quite ready for prime time.

That said, if Cunard can work out the kinks over the coming months, particularly in the areas of service and specialty dining, Queen Anne has the potential to be a wonderful cruise ship.

What I loved about Queen Anne

The new look.

Put me down as firmly in the camp that loves the new look. Make no mistake, I have long enjoyed the ocean liners-of-old design of Cunard vessels. Sailing on the Atlantic-crossing Queen Mary 2, in particular, is like stepping onto the movie set for "Titanic," which definitely has an appeal. Combined with Cunard's focus on old-style tradition and elegance, it has given Cunard something unique in the world of cruising. But that doesn't mean the brand has to be forever stuck in the past.

In my view, which admittedly isn't shared by some Cunard fans, Cunard has artfully updated its design and onboard offerings for modern-day cruisers in a way that doesn't lose the tradition and elegance for which its ships have long been known.

Related: This movie will give you a sense of a transatlantic Cunard voyage

The British feel

Like all ships operated by United Kingdom-based Cunard, Queen Anne has a particularly British feel. It's a vessel where mushy peas and fish-and-chips (along with other British culinary favorites) are on the lunch buffet not just once a sailing but every day , and afternoon tea is a major event. It's also a ship where one of the busiest drinking spots is the (very traditionally English) pub.

But beyond such Britishness in food and drink, it offers a uniquely British style of prim and properness that is perhaps Queen Anne's most distinctive feature. It is a ship, for instance, where even on nights when the dress code is a relaxed "smart" casual, most passengers arrive for dinner in a jacket, some in full coat-and-tie. It's a vessel where you generally don't see people being loud or garish or otherwise inappropriate.

For American cruisers increasingly aghast at the way some passengers behave (and dress) on mass-market American vessels, where anything-goes American values rule the day, it can be wonderfully refreshing — a throwback to what cruising was across the board not all that long ago. Of course, for some Americans, it might come off as just plain stuffy.

What I didn't love about Queen Anne

The hard-to-navigate top deck.

Getting around the top deck of Queen Anne is easy — if you're staying in a top suite. Otherwise, it's like navigating a maze. That's because a significant chunk of the middle of the top deck is devoted to a private sunning area for the swells in top suites. If you're not booked in such a suite (and thus do not have the secret keycode to enter and cross this elites-only zone), you can't easily get from the sunning and sports deck areas at the front of the ship to the pool area at the back. The only way to do it is to descend into the interior of the vessel and walk across its already congested buffet restaurant (called the Artisans' Foodhall).

This, in turn, adds to the congestion of the buffet, which itself has design flaws (most notably, its self-serve drinks stations are inexplicably located along the crowded walkways through the eatery, such that you'll smack right into people pouring hot coffees and teas as you work your way across the space).

Queen Anne is more packed with people than Cunard's three other vessels, in a way that affects the experience. Seats are hard to come by for some shows, and the crew seems more harried than usual. The cabin experience is also diminished in some cases.

The numbers tell the story: At 113,000 gross tons, Queen Anne is 24% bigger than Cunard's last new vessel, the 14-year-old Queen Elizabeth. But Cunard has jammed 44% more cabins (and thus 44% more people) onto the vessel. Queen Anne holds 2,996 passengers at double occupancy (two passengers per cabin), up from Queen Elizabeth's capacity of 2,081 passengers at double occupancy. Notably, this drops the ship's "space ratio" of space (measured in hundreds of cubic feet) to passengers to just 37.8, which isn't a great number. By comparison, Queen Elizabeth has a space ratio closer to 44. The line's flagship Queen Mary 2 has a space ratio around 56.

The spotty service

I truly was excited to sail on Queen Anne, as I've long loved the elegance and refinement of Cunard vessels. I figured Cunard's first new ship in 14 years would set a new benchmark for the brand. Alas, what I experienced on board was a vessel that wasn't quite functioning right, mostly in the area of service.

I've sailed on more than 200 ships in 30 years of writing about cruising, including lots of just-out-of-the-shipyard vessels, and I've rarely encountered one where the crew members seemed as untrained and indifferent as they seemed on Queen Anne. It wasn't in every space. The servers in the exclusive restaurant for Princess Grill passengers were fabulous, catering to my every need. The bartenders at the casino bar (Room 1840) were a delight. But in many other venues, I regularly encountered crew who didn't seem to know what they were supposed to do or how to interact with passengers. Some venues also just didn't have enough staff to function properly.

Queen Anne cabins and suites

Queen Anne has 28 cabin and suite categories — a large number. But finding the right cabin category for you isn't as complicated as that number might make it seem. As is often the case on cruise ships, many cabin categories on Queen Anne are essentially the same, with the exception of where the rooms are located.

For instance, there are nine categories of balcony cabins, all basically the same in size and decor. The only differences among most of them are whether they are located at the front, middle or back of the ship and whether they have a clear or obstructed view.

Similarly, there are five categories of ocean-view cabins (those with a window but no balcony) and six categories of windowless inside cabins. The only difference between them is location.

There are eight categories of suites, some of which also are essentially the same except for their locations.

All that said, when booking accommodations on Queen Anne, it's important to know that the type of cabin you book will have a significant impact on your cruise experience beyond what you'll experience in your room.

Unlike most lines, Cunard still operates with an old-school class system, where passengers dine and lounge on ships in different places depending on their cabin category.

Most of Queen Anne's 1,498 cabins — including all inside and ocean-view cabins and most balcony cabins — are what's known as Britannia cabins. When you book passage in one, you'll dine in the ship's cavernous Britannia Restaurant at night (when not at an extra-charge specialty restaurant) and only have access to the non-elite lounge areas of the ship.

For those wanting something more exclusive (and willing to pay for it), there are three higher tiers of accommodations with ever-greater levels of pampering and perks:

• Britannia Club cabins . These 162 balcony cabins are similar to standard balcony cabins but come with access to a more intimate private restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Princess Grill suites . A big step up from Britannia Club cabins, these 127 rooms — all suites — come with concierge service and access to an exclusive lounge area (the Grills Lounge) and a restaurant (the Princess Grill) for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition, you'll get access to a spacious private outdoor sun deck called the Grills Terrace.
• Queens Grill suites . These 65 suites are the ship's finest accommodations. Measuring 484 to 1,440 square feet, they come with butler service, concierge service, upscale touches such as fresh flowers, and access to an elegant private restaurant (the Queens Grill) for all meals. In addition, you get access to the same Grills Lounge and Grills Terrace as those staying in the Princess Grill suites.

My room was a Princess Grill suite, and the exclusive private areas that came with it really were wonderful. I particularly loved my special access to the Grills Lounge, a stylish bar and lounge space. Filled with curvy chairs upholstered in luscious peacock blue fabric, with a striking circular chartreuse seating area as a focal point, it served as a quiet escape from the ship's bustling public areas.

One deck up, the private Grills Terrace was a similarly serene and uncrowded oasis for decktop lounging that felt a world away from the busier public areas atop the ship.

Like all Princess Grill suites, my room measured about 300 square feet, including its balcony area. That's quite large for a cruise ship cabin, and it was room enough to contain everything I could want in a cabin for a week at sea: a king bed that could be split into two single beds, a built-in desk area, a separate built-in cabinet hiding a miniature refrigerator, a seating area with a sofa and chair, built-in closets, and a bathroom.

For the most part, I was happy with my Princess Grill suite on Queen Anne. While it wasn't inordinately high-end in its finishings, it had a clean-lined, contemporary look that felt modern and up to date. A recurring circular motif in its carpeting, lighting and mirror gave it a whiff of an art deco feel, one that was augmented by the room's red and gold accents (a nod to Cunard history, as they are two of Cunard's signature colors).

While surprisingly small in relationship to the overall size of the room, the bathroom in my Princess Grill suite was modern and bright, with a well-thought-out layout that made the most of its limited space. I particularly liked the relatively large walk-in shower and ample shelving space for toiletries — a sign that its designers understood what matters most to cruisers (unlike the designers of the poorly laid-out bathrooms on the new Seabourn ship that I just tested a few weeks ago ).

If my Princess Grill suite had a flaw, it was in the lack of adequate storage in the room. Given the formality of Cunard ships, which requires that passengers pack elegant eveningwear (think ballgowns and tuxedos) in addition to everyday clothing, the storage needs for Cunard passengers are higher than for passengers on some other lines. Cunard ships (and Queen Anne in particular) also often make longer sailings that require more clothes.

While there was enough storage in my room to pack away everything my companion and I brought for a weeklong sailing, it would have been tight if we had been on one of the ship's longer two-week sailings. I can't imagine how it'll work for passengers on the monthslong around-the-world sailings that are planned for the vessel starting in January.

One detail of the room I truly loved was the placement of large nightstands with large drawers on each side of the bed where I could hide away all my electronics and their cords, books, papers, glasses and the like. Bedside storage at this level is increasingly rare on ships. What's more, each of the nightstands was topped with a U.S.-style 110-volt outlet, a British-style 220-volt outlet, and both USB-A and fast-charging USB-C ports. Bravo, Cunard, for knowing how to keep us charged.

Other Queen Anne cabin tidbits:

• Every cabin has a small hair dryer that works with the ship's specific current. Leave yours at home.
• Rooms have nicely wide personal safes that can hold even a big laptop.
• There are Cunard-red "Do Not Disturb" magnets to stick to your door when you don't want to be disturbed. Flip them over, and a steward will make up your room. It's not a sophisticated system, but it works.
• Cabin televisions offer a wide range of movies on demand at no extra charge, a nice touch (some of Cunard's competitors charge as much as $11.99 to watch a movie).

The Princess Grill suites seem like a sweet spot to me when it comes to the higher-end accommodations on Queen Anne. They get you the same exclusive access to private indoor and outdoor lounge areas as the higher-priced Queens Grill suites and access to a private restaurant, too, but at a significantly lower price point.

That said, if you're looking for the ultimate in Queen Anne swankiness, you'll find it in the Queens Grill suites.

The best suites on Queen Anne

The two largest Queens Grill suites, called Grand suites, measure an astounding 1,440 square feet — nearly five times the size of my Princess Grill suite. They boast a bedroom, a master bathroom with a separate bath and shower, a large living room, a dining room, a powder room, a private balcony, and a walk-in closet.

Also impressive are the ship's four Queens Grill Master suites, which measure 896 square feet. They also feature a bedroom, a master bathroom with a separate bath and shower, a living room, a dining room, a powder room, a private balcony, and a walk-in closet.

The remainder of the Queens Grill suites are split between Queens Grill Penthouse suites, which measure 501 to 527 square feet, and slightly smaller Queens Grill suites, which measure 484 to 500 square feet. Each has a bedroom, a bathroom with a separate bath and shower, a living area, and a private balcony.

In addition to fresh flowers, Queens Grill suites come with personalized stationery, fresh fruit daily, predinner canapes and a complimentary minibar, including alcoholic drinks and soft drinks.

As noted above, Queen Anne's designers have packed a lot more cabins on Queen Anne than on earlier Cunard ships, and they did it in part by shrinking the size of some cabins. While standard balcony cabins on Queen Anne are just a tad smaller than balcony cabins on the line's past two new ships (236 square feet versus 239 square feet), the differential with Princess Grill suites is more noticeable.

Princess Grill suites measure 335 square feet on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria — about 10% more space than my Princess Grill suite on Queen Anne. Princess Grill suites on the line's flagship, Queen Mary 2, measure a far more generous 381 square feet.

At the Queens Grill level, there are notably no two-deck-high duplexes measuring more than 2,000 square feet on Queen Anne, as you'll find on the Queen Mary 2, which remains Cunard's reigning monarch for over-the-top accommodations.

Related: Cunard cabins and suites guide: Everything you want to know

Queen Anne restaurants and bars

Cunard has never been known for having ships that offered lots of dining options, but that changed notably with the debut of Queen Anne. It boasts 15 different places where you can grab a bite — more than double the number on the line's other ships. It also offers quite a few bar options, including several new-for-the-brand venues.

Restaurants

As on all Cunard ships, the dining scene on Queen Anne revolves around four main restaurants: Britannia, Britannia Club, Princess Grill and Queens Grill — only one of which you will experience during any given cruise.

In keeping with Cunard's old-fashioned class system of dining, you'll be assigned a table in one of the four eateries for the duration of your cruise based on the type of cabin you book.

The vast majority of passengers — those in the least expensive windowless inside cabins, ocean-view cabins and most balcony cabins — are assigned to the least intimate of the four eateries: the expansive, two-level Britannia Restaurant. It's packed with close-together tables that can hold 596 people at a time — a banquet hall sort of number.

Dinners on the lower level of the Britannia Restaurant take place during two fixed seatings each night, while the second level is reserved for diners on an open-seating plan (arrange this in advance). Breakfast and lunch have open seating.

Passengers who pay up for one of 162 premium balcony cabins will be assigned a table in the more intimate Britannia Club restaurant. It's designed to hold up to 339 passengers and doesn't turn over tables for multiple seatings. If you book this class, you have a specific table in the eatery that is available whenever you want to dine during breakfast, lunch and dinner hours.

Even more intimate and upscale are the Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants, which are assigned to passengers staying in suites. The Princess Grill is for passengers booked in the ship's 127 smaller suites, known as Princess Grill suites. The Queens Grill is for passengers in the ship's 65 biggest suites.

In the Princess Grill and Queens Grill, as with the Britannia Club restaurant, you'll have a specific table that is available to you whenever you want it during dining hours.

Among the four main eateries, I only was able to experience the Princess Grill, as I was staying in a Princess Grill suite. Serving mostly classic Continental cuisine, it offered a refined dining experience with top-notch service, as you'd expect from an eatery reserved for passengers in top suites. Elaborate dishes such as chateaubriand and Dover sole meuniere (the latter expertly deboned and plated tableside) were available every night, as were such showy desserts as bananas Foster and cherries jubilee that were flamed tableside — a throwback to first-class travel during ocean liner days.

In addition to the four eateries above, Queen Anne also has a wide range of alternative dining options — something that isn't the case with other Cunard ships.

These include four new-for-the-line extra-charge dining concepts: Aranya, an Indian eatery; Tramonto, serving Mediterranean dishes; Aji Wa, a Japanese restaurant; and Sir Samuel's, a steakhouse.

I tried nearly all these new restaurants while on board and, alas, was disappointed with them all for varying reasons.

Both Aranya and Tramonto, which came with upcharges of $35 and $20, respectively, seemed like eateries added to the ship as afterthoughts. Both were in carved-out corners of the buffet area, and they had the ambience you might expect from such a location. From my table at Aranya, I looked out over a sad landscape of empty tables and a trolley cart with glasses in the buffet. Tramonto's ambience was better, thanks to the addition of a built-in wine cabinet blocking the buffet view. But it still suffered from being aside one of the main thoroughfares into the buffet.

Foodwise, the 38-seat Aranya was the biggest disappointment. The "carefully crafted spice-led journey" that it promised was almost devoid of spice across much of its (very limited) menu. A turbot wrapped in banana leaf came out dry. The one choice of naan that was available (plain) had the consistency of cardboard. It was nothing like the fabulous Indian eateries you'll find all over the ship's home country (for a similar cost, my companion and I feasted on truly wonderful Indian cuisine in London just the night before boarding).

Aranya also was plagued by servers who seemed only half awake (one server tried to fill our water glasses with tap water twice in five minutes, even though we clearly told her the first time we were drinking sparkling water).

The cuisine at the 38-seat Tramonto wasn't quite the disaster it was at Aranya, but too many dishes at this venue arrived cold, tasteless or otherwise underwhelming, and the servers were inattentive, even absent at times.

Both Aranya and Tramonto suffered, I suspect, from not having their own kitchens on-site. It appeared that waiters at both outlets were walking out of the eateries periodically to head to the buffet kitchen to grab dishes. They also apparently had to travel long distances to get drinks, as the eateries had no bars of their own. Our charge for sparkling water at Aranya posted as coming from the Panorama Pool Club bar, suggesting that our server had to walk to the back of the ship to get it.

Aji Wa, the Japanese eatery, had a much better atmosphere and served lovely sushi and other Japanese dishes. Its main flaw was disorganized service. During one of two visits, we sat at the sushi bar, ordering small sushi plates directly from the chef (as instructed) a couple at a time. Alas, nobody cleared these dishes away as we finished them, such that dirty dishes were piling up all around us by the end of the evening. We then sat for 20 minutes waiting for someone to notice we were done and bring us a bill. We finally got one, but just for our drinks. We had to wait again for a second bill for the food portion of the meal — a separation of charges that surely makes sense to someone in the accounting department at Cunard's U.K. headquarters but, of course, is nonsensical to the customer.

Sadly, I wasn't able to try Sir Samuel's, Cunard's new signature steakhouse. The eatery was unavailable for the entire week I was on board due to a private event that was being held in the space.

Other places to dine on Queen Anne include the Golden Lion pub, a mainstay of Cunard ships. On Queen Anne, it features a tasty new pub menu designed by chef Michel Roux Jr., who owned London's Le Gavroche restaurant, the first U.K. restaurant to receive three Michelin stars. (He also created an exclusive gala menu for the Queens Grill restaurant.) I particularly loved the steak-and-ale pie. It looked underwhelming on the plate but was fabulously rich and yummy.

You'll pay up to $11 a plate for lunch at the Golden Lion, but it's a worth-it upcharge. Some items, such as the quintessentially British Scotch eggs, are available at no extra cost.

In addition, Queen Anne passengers can eat in casual comfort at the Artisans' Foodhall, the ship's buffet. It features active food stations instead of traditional self-serve buffet lines, with a chef standing by at each station to make a dish just for you — a nice upgrade. There also are preplated dishes available to grab and go. The array of dishes is more limited than on some mass-market ships, but I never had trouble finding something to suit my taste.

That said, for something fast and casual, my favorite outlet, hands down, was the new-for-Cunard Wellness Cafe on the second level of the ship's Pavilion pool area. Part of Cunard's expanded focus on wellness, it offered no-extra-charge, built-to-order healthy food bowls that were not just tasty but beautifully plated. You could pick from a long list of healthful items such as edamame, kale, quinoa, roasted broccoli and charred cauliflower and top it all with grilled salmon and other proteins, as well as fresh dressings such as miso, lime and ginger. It was the one new eatery on Queen Anne that was a clear home run.

Eat there, and then blow your calorie count at the nearby Pavilion Gelateria, which serves massive extra-charge gelatos starting at a very reasonable $2.50 for one flavor. The Pavilion is also home to a grill for no-extra-charge burgers and hot dogs.

You'll also find small bites available from morning to night at the Carinthia Lounge. Located off the Grand Lobby, it's a European-style coffee bar by day with lovely handmade pastries and other elevated breakfast bites at no extra charge. At night, it morphs into a wine bar that serves artisanal cheese and charcuterie sourced from small producers for an extra fee (on my sailing, $6.50 for a selection of three cheeses or meats).

The Carinthia Lounge also serves oysters on the half shell at night ($6.50 for three oysters) and a few other small snacks that pair well with wines.

Room service is available day and night with several solid options including the same Michel Roux-designed burger you can get in the Golden Lion pub. That said, many of the better items come with an upcharge, which isn't always the case with room service menus on ships. The burger will set you back $11, while the room service steak — from the ship's Sir Samuel's steakhouse — will cost you $25 to $29, depending on whether you order a sirloin or filet. With an added lobster tail, the plate cost jumps to $40 to $44.

If you're heading out for a drink in the evening on Queen Anne, you're probably heading to one of two places: the Commodore Club or the Chart Room.

Located at the top of the ship overlooking the bow, as it is on all Cunard ships, the Commodore Club is the hot spot for drinks in the evenings, and for good reason. It's an elegant and inviting space with an impressive martini menu, friendly bartenders and lively entertainment (on my sailings, a pianist who took requests and played to the crowd).

The Commodore Club is such a popular venue on Cunard ships that the line has made it bigger than ever on Queen Anne, even bigger than its counterpart on Queen Mary 2, which is a far bigger ship.

Just off the Grand Lobby, the Chart Room is the main bar and lounge for the ship's lower-deck interior areas. It has a creative list of specialty cocktails themed around the signs of the zodiac (I loved the Leo-themed Natural Leader cocktail, made with pisco, lemon juice, raspberries and elderflower syrup) and the stylish art deco-inspired decor.

A third major drinking spot in the interior of the ship is the Golden Lion pub, which is just down the hall from the Chart Room past the Queens Room — the ship's ballroom. It's definitely the place to go for a pint of beer and a chat or a full-blown pub meal. Just be warned that it sometimes morphs into a karaoke club at night and is often taken over by trivia and bingo sessions, which sort of wrecks the cozy British pub ambience. In my view, it's a space that suffers from mission creep, though people who love karaoke, trivia and bingo with a side of John Smith's bitter ale surely will disagree.

Another option for a drink in the afternoon or evening is the Carinthia Lounge. As mentioned in the dining section above, it's a coffee bar by day but morphs into a wine bar as the day goes on. It has a wonderfully diverse wine list that includes things like Hungarian furmint, a wine you don't normally find at cruise ship bars.

Alas, as an evening drinking spot, the Carinthia Lounge suffers a bit from a ho-hum setting along a sometimes busy corridor through a shopping area — the reason, I suspect, for why it wasn't drawing much of a crowd at night when I was on board. It also closes down early. It's much more popular during the day when it functions as a coffee bar.

Note that the Carinthia Lounge is one of the venues on Queen Anne where the servers seem particularly out to lunch. You apparently get to order just one coffee here, after which your server will disappear, never to be seen again.

Yet one more bar option, one that is something of an unexpected gem, is the bar attached to the ship's casino, Room 1840. Most casino bars on ships are dreary places you don't want to visit unless you're in the casino to gamble. But the Room 1840 bar is both striking in its design and home to a fabulous cocktail menu focused on Negronis (in addition to a classic gin Negroni, you'll find creative variations on the Campari-infused elixir made with everything from double-oaked whiskey to tequila).

The Room 1840 bar is also one of the few bars on the ship where you'll find proper oversize ice cubes for cocktails such as Negronis — something that is standard at any semidecent cocktail bar on land but sorely missing from most Queen Anne bars (to be fair, this is a flaw not just with Queen Anne bars but bars on most cruise ships).

And, no, Room 1840 isn't smoky. Unlike on most ships, you can't smoke in the casino on Queen Anne.

In addition to the above, there are small interior bars attached to the Queens Room, the Bright Lights Society cabaret theater, the Artisans' Foodhall and the Sir Samuel's steakhouse. But none of them are venues you'd necessarily visit specifically for drinking. They are more bases for the waiters serving these various areas.

On the outside decks of the ship, you'll find bars at all the main sunning and pool areas, including at the front-of-the-ship sports deck (known as the Observation Deck) and at the back-of-the-ship Panorama Pool Club. One of the outdoor venues, Cabana, is a new-for-the-line rum-focused venue touting 50 different brands of the drink.

Queen Anne activities

As is typical for Cunard ships, the top decks of Queen Anne are mostly devoted to relaxing pool and sunning areas. This isn't a ship where you'll find lots of family-friendly decktop amusements such as waterslides and kiddie splash zones.

This is in keeping with the clientele of the brand, which is mostly older adults. Cunard has never been known as a family line.

Queen Anne is also one of the relatively few cruise ships with a top deck designed specifically for operating in a wide range of climate zones.

At the heart of Queen Anne's top deck is The Pavilion, an enormous central pool area that — unlike the main pool areas on the last two new Cunard ships — is topped with a retractable glass roof designed to keep poolgoers warm and dry on cold and rainy days.

It's a retractable glass roof that is not only functional but beautiful — a showpiece for the ship. Soaring higher and feeling airier than the typical magrodome (as such retractable glass roofs on ships are called), the giant structure above the pool was created by Martin Francis, the U.K.-based design wizard who figured out how to make the glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum stay up.

The Pavilion, moreover, is much more than just a covered pool area. Underneath the dome — in addition to a pool, three whirlpools and lounge chairs — is a bar, a grill for poolside food, a gelateria and a stage for entertainment.

Just forward of The Pavilion is an open-air sun deck that is the closest thing the ship has to an amusement zone. Called the Observation Deck, it has a paddle tennis court that doubles as a pickleball court, a putting green, a golf net for practicing your drives, a table tennis table (or, as most Americans would call it, a pingpong table) and — this being a British ship — deck quoits. If you're an American, you'll have to Google that last one.

There's also shuffleboard, here and elsewhere along the outdoor decks. It's that sort of deck-top vibe.

One other top-deck amusement, located toward the middle of the ship, is an archery range — something you won't find on most cruise ships. Indeed, while Royal Caribbean has offered a watered-down version of archery on its ships with toylike bows and arrows, Queen Anne is the first ship where you can shoot real (and very sharp) arrows with a real bow. You do it during formal reservations-only sessions with an instructor, and you have to sign your life away with a waiver form before you start.

In addition to the public areas above, there is an open-air deck area toward the middle of the ship that is exclusive to the swanky set staying in the ship's Princess Grill and Queens Grill suites. The center-of-the-ship placement of this exclusive area, alas, blocks regular passengers from moving across the top of the ship — a major design flaw.

The top of the ship is also home to a new-for-the-line, glass-enclosed Wellness Studio. Just past The Pavilion Pool (under the same glorious glass dome that covers that venue), it offers yoga, Pilates, Zumba and line-dancing classes during the day for an extra charge.

The Wellness Studio is part of the major expansion of wellness offerings at Cunard mentioned above. It was added to the ship in part to get all the fitness classes that the line normally offers in interior fitness areas up to the top deck, where participants can enjoy natural light and views of the sea all around.

That said, Queen Anne still has a good-size fitness center and a spa with a thermal pool complex in a lower part of the vessel. The latter venue is a wow with heated loungers, experiential showers, a reflexology footpath with textured stones, a cold room (a first for Cunard), a large steam room, a Himalayan salt sauna, and a traditional sauna. There's also a relaxation room and a wellness suite.

Two-hour passes to the thermal complex are available for $59 per person.

If you're looking for activities in the interior of the ship, there are two main places to go: the Queens Room and the Golden Lion pub.

The Queens Room — a staple of Cunard ships — is the ship's grand ballroom and the place to dance the night away to big-band music. But it's also the spot for afternoon tea at times — a big thing for the ship's heavily British crowd — and occasionally other activities such as low-impact chair yoga.

The Golden Lion pub is home to frequent trivia contests (often several times a day), darts competitions, bingo and karaoke nights — so many such activities, in fact, that passengers looking for a traditional pub experience may be disappointed.

Other activity areas in the ship's interior include the small casino area called Room 1840 mentioned above. It's just forward of the Queens Room. There's also a small Games Room for card playing just off the Grand Lobby.

At the very top of the ship, off the Commodore Club, is a library with one of the best views of any library at sea. Just beyond it is a very small children's area called The Zone (as noted, Cunard isn't a line that draws many children).

Other interior areas include dedicated space for weddings and wedding receptions, part of a bigger focus on celebrations at Cunard, and a large number of shops.

Queen Anne shows

Cunard has beefed up its entertainment offerings with the debut of Queen Anne.

In addition to an 835-seat main theater (the Royal Court Theater) offering Broadway-style shows, it's home to a new-for-the-brand, 132-seat cabaret-style theater called the Bright Lights Society.

The former is home to a wide variety of entertainment during any given cruise, from full-blown musicals to comedy shows and vocalist performances. (It's also used for lectures by a rotating list of guest speakers and occasional screenings of feature-length films.) The latter offers a murder mystery theater-type experience on some days and a lively cabaret-style musical show on others.

On my sailing, the two big main theater productions were a smoke-, strobe light- and laser-infused musical production called "Imagination" and a shortened version of the West End musical "Pride and Prejudice (sort of)" — the latter a comedic retelling of the Jane Austen love story. Both were entertaining, if not the sort of wow productions you'll find on the ships of cruise entertainment leaders Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line .

The Bright Lights Society (the name is an oblique reference to the fact that Cunard was the first ocean liner operator to use electric lights on its ships) was a fun and lively venue — when I was able to get into it. Alas, all six performances of what some passengers said was the best show in the venue, the interactive murder mystery "Noir," booked up seemingly instantly on the first day of my cruise, so I never was able to get a reservation to see it.

With Queen Anne's passenger count significantly higher than Cunard's other vessels, there just isn't room in the Brights Light Society venue to accommodate the demand for its shows.

The "Noir" show was the only show in the venue for three of the first four nights of the cruise. For the last three nights of the sailing, the space was home to "Fizz," a cabaret-style show with musical and burlesque elements and a loose storyline of romance for which I did manage to snag a reservation. It was energetic and amusing, with the cast of five pulling in the audience to become part of the show.

Additional entertainment, including the occasional comedy show, vocalists and silent discos, takes place in the Queens Room, the ship's ballroom. On Queen Anne, it's a space that has gotten a makeover compared to the ballrooms on other Cunard ships to make it more multipurpose, and it often hosts some of the same acts that play on different nights in the Royal Court Theater.

With clusters of modern ball lamps hanging from its ceiling, evoking planets floating in the sky, and a stunning, multicolored marquetry wood floor as a counterpoint, the Queens Room has a dreamy, make-believe quality unlike anything seen before on a Cunard ship.

A large digital screen behind its semicircular stage and high-tech lighting add to its more modern feel.

The Queens Room is also rounder in its design and more open to its surroundings. Its top level, in particular, is open to an area of boutique stores and the passing traffic of passengers moving between the front and back of the ship.

Queen Anne itineraries and pricing

Of Cunard's four ships, Queen Anne is the one that spends the most time sailing out of Southampton, England — Cunard's traditional home. Nearly all its sailings during the year begin and end in the port.

Still, that doesn't mean Queen Anne only sails in the vicinity of the British Isles.

For all but the first few months of the year, Queen Anne operates an unusually wide array of Europe itineraries out of Southampton that can get you to just about every corner of the continent, from the far reaches of the Baltic Sea to the full expanse of the Mediterranean.

Some of Queen Anne's Europe sailings out of Southampton go all the way to the Canary Islands off the west coast of Africa.

Queen Anne's trips from Southampton are diverse not only in where they go but in length, as the ship operates everything from quickie two-nighters to Hamburg, Germany (a good way to test the vessel to see if you like it), and seven-night sailings to Northern Europe to far lengthier voyages of 14 to 19 nights to the Mediterranean and Canary Islands.

During the first few months of every year, Queen Anne sets off from Southampton on an even more ambitious voyage around the world. Since the ship's debut in early 2024, it has become one of Cunard's main ships for such lengthy voyages.

The around-the-world voyages (two of which currently are on Queen Anne's schedule for 2025 and 2026) typically last nearly four months and include stops in North America, Australia, Asia, Africa and Europe. In addition to selling passage for the entire cruise, Cunard also sells shorter segments of the voyage that focus on particular regions along the way.

Prices for Queen Anne sailings start around $400 per person, based on double occupancy, for a two-night sailing from Southampton to Hamburg. More typical seven-night sailings out of Southampton start at $1,159 per person, based on double occupancy. The ship's first world cruise, a 107-night trip kicking off in January 2025, starts at $17,536 per person.

The above rates include all taxes and fees.

Note that you'll pay a significant premium to stay in Queen Anne's Britannia Club, Princess Grill and Queens Grill accommodations as compared to standard Britannia cabins. A voyage where a balcony cabin in Britannia class starts around $3,000 per person might cost closer to $5,000 per person if you book the same balcony cabin in Britannia Club class or $7,000 per person if you book a Princess Grill suite. A Queens Grill room on the same voyage might set you back more than $9,000 per person.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all itineraries, and passports must be valid for at least six months. The name on your reservation must match that on your passport. Double-check if you've recently gotten married or use a different version of your name.

Queen Anne guests will find an automatic service charge of $16 to $18 per person, per day, depending on cabin category, added to their onboard account and final bill. You are allowed to adjust this amount at the Purser's Office desk before disembarking.

In addition, a 15% gratuity is added to bar bills. You should not feel pressured to add an additional tip.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

In recent years, Cunard has upgraded the Wi-Fi service on its ships and now offers a relatively fast connection through Starlink satellites. As is often the case with cruise ships, the service isn't free, nor is it inexpensive. Passengers can choose an Essential plan that allows web browsing and access to emails and social media sites for $18 per day if bought for the entire voyage (24-hour access is available for $24). A Premium plan allowing for streaming costs $24 per day if bought for the entire voyage (24-hour access is available for $36) is also available.

The above rates allow you to log in on a single device. Multidevice plans are also available. They'll cost you more in absolute terms but are a much better value if you are buying Wi-Fi for several people. On my voyage, a multidevice plan for four devices was the same cost as buying two single-device plans.

Note that top-tier members of the line's Cunard World Club loyalty program get credit toward buying internet plans.

Carry-on drinks policy

Cunard allows every passenger of drinking age to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne onto ships at boarding. The line charges a corkage fee if you bring the wine or Champagne to an onboard restaurant or other public areas to drink.

Smoking policy

Smoking (including e-cigarette smoking) is allowed only in designated outdoor areas. It's forbidden in cabins, on cabin balconies and — with one exception — in all other indoor areas of the ship. The exception is that passengers can smoke cigars and pipes only (no cigarettes) in Churchill's Cigar Lounge, the ship's dedicated space for cigar smokers.

Unlike on some cruise ships, smoking is not allowed in Queen Anne's casino.

Queen Anne has self-serve launderettes on cabin decks where passengers will find washers, dryers and ironing boards for use at no extra charge. Even the detergent is free. The ship also offers extra-charge laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

You'll find North American-style 110-volt outlets and European-style 220-volt outlets in cabins, along with USB ports.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar. But you won't need cash while on board. Queen Anne operates on a "cashless system," with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a keycard that you can use to make charges, and Cunard will charge your credit card at the end of the sailing to settle the balance.

While on board, you can check your balance at the Purser's Office or via your in-cabin television.

Drinking age

You must be 18 to consume alcohol on Queen Anne in most parts of the world. When the ship is sailing in U.S. waters, Cunard enforces the U.S. drinking age limit of 21.

During the day, there is no specific dress code, and people dress casually. If it's a sea day, and you're bound for the pool deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach — T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits are just fine. Just note that swimwear is not permitted in indoor dining areas, so you'll want to change from that bathing suit before heading to lunch inside the vessel.

During the evenings, there is an official dress code, and it's more formal than at many lines. Cunard has always been known as a line where passengers dress up — and its dress code reflects that (though it's not nearly as formal as it was just a few years ago).

On most nights, the Queen Anne dress code is "smart" attire, which Cunard defines as a dress shirt and trousers, skirt and a top, or a cocktail dress. Jackets are optional, but many men do wear them. Some men even wear coats and ties on casual nights. This is a ship where passengers get very dressed up, and you might feel out of place if you don't.

Unlike on some lines, jeans are not allowed in restaurants in the evening, and the line is strict about it. You will likely be turned away if you show up in them, and you'll definitely get dirty looks from Cunard's formality-loving regulars.

Every few nights, the dress level on the ship becomes much more formal as the ship holds "gala evenings." These are shipwide events where passengers are encouraged to dress to the nines, and they generally do.

There are typically two gala evenings on every seven-night cruise and more on longer sailings. Cunard asks men to wear black tie or dark suits. For women, Cunard suggests floor-length dresses, ballgowns or off-the-shoulder cocktail dresses.

Cunard typically designates a theme for each gala evening, set in advance so you can plan your wardrobe. Examples include Black and White Gala Evening, when passengers are encouraged to wear black and white, and Red and Gold Gala Evening, when red and gold are the go-to colors. Some sailings also have a Masquerade Ball, where the line suggests passengers spice up their attire with masks.

Note that if you really, really hate the idea of getting all dolled up for a gala evening, you'll find that there are a few designated places on the ship (such as the pub) where you still can drink and dine without the formality. That said, the dress-up nights are a big part of the Cunard formula. If it doesn't sound appealing to you, maybe you're picking the wrong ship.

Related: What to pack for your first cruise

Bottom line

Queen Anne is a lovely ship that, alas, isn't yet running like it should. The design of the vessel, which is more contemporary in its look and feel than what we've seen from Cunard in recent years, is meant to usher in a new era for the brand, and it does. In my opinion, it's the most beautiful new Cunard ship to debut since Queen Mary 2 arrived more than 20 years ago.

But four months after opening, some of Queen Anne's venues still are struggling to deliver the sort of friendly and intuitive service that they should, given Queen Anne's positioning as a "premium" product that is a step above mass-market cruising (in some of its messaging to consumers, the line even refers to itself as offering a "luxury" experience).

In addition, several new-for-the-line dining concepts on the ship are struggling to hit their stride and may need rethinking.

Cunard, no doubt, will tweak all the above and eventually get it right, maybe by the time you are on board. And there's a lot already to love about Queen Anne — particularly the higher-end experience available in the ship's already smoothly-running Princess Grill and Queens Grill areas. If Cunard can work out the kinks with the rest of the ship, particularly in the areas of service and specialty dining, Queen Anne has the potential to be a wonderful cruise ship.

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