Exploring the Mediterranean with Katie

We invited first time cruiser Katie Woods to join Queen Elizabeth sailing around the Mediterranean from Barcelona, enjoying a 7 day voyage from the sparkling waters of the French Riviera to Ibiza's captivating old town.

During her time with Cunard, Katie explored the cobbled streets of Old Town Ibiza and enjoyed wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside. Then she spent her days at sea to exploring Queen Elizabeth's myriad of delights.

Katie's favourite moments on board

"Walking on to the ship for the first time was amazing. The welcome that we got was absolutely glorious and we ran around the ship like kids exploring.

We were absolutely blown away by the food. From the buffet to the high end restaurants, everything that we tasted was just phenomenal. I had the best omelette I’ve ever eaten in the buffet and the best steak I’ve ever eaten at the Verandah restaurant. Also, the 24 hour room service was a proper treat.

As first time cruisers, we didn’t even know what "Sailaways" were. It was so lovely to see everyone come together with great music and lovely drinks and wave goodbye to the day.

 With panoramic views across the sea and a magnificent view of the sunset, the Commodore Club became the perfect place to meet friends and indulge in one of their  sunset and exquisite cocktails."

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Katie's favourite moments off the ship

"Boarding the ship was exciting. Being first time cruisers we had no idea what to expect, the anticipation was palpable.

Valencia was a magical highlight for us. It was the last stop but we couldn't believe how amazing it was. We ate delicious paella and mooched around the beautiful old town. We also walked the path through the Turia Gardens.

We took the trip to a Tuscan vineyard, we were shown around and learnt about their wines and olive oil production. 

We loved our morning in Ibiza at a beach club, we had been all systems go all week and it was just the tonic we needed to rest and relax.

Villefranche was beautiful. It was our first excursion so we stayed local and chose not to head to Nice or Montecarlo. We wondered the colourful streets and ate the most delicious ice cream, it was beautiful."

What was your favourite food and drink on board?

I’ve mentioned in my highlights how good the food was, but I would say that a clear standout meal for me was dinner at Steakhouse at the Verandah. We ate the most perfect steaks, but the prize has to go to the bread that was brought to us before the meal: sticky brioche with smoked butter. I would book another holiday just to taste that bread again!

What was your most unexpected moment?

Meeting so many new friends. We absolutely didn't expect for it to be so sociable. It almost felt like the cruising code is to socialise. We had so many interesting conversations and laughs.

What tips would you give a first time cruiser?

As you board, take some time when there aren't many people around to explore. Try and orientate yourself within the ship, as it’s easy to get lost. Also, bring a water bottle. There are filling stations all over the ship.
Dubrovnik, Croatia, Europe, Mediterranean

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