HISTORIC CRUISING
SUITE THINGS
True to her lineage, Queen Elizabeth offers a range of accommodations from the ample to the opulent. Whilst they are unquestionably a touchstone of harmonious design, the bathrooms in the standard cabins are small and have more in common with mass-market ships than the elegance of a Cunard vessel, although the Gilchrist & Soames unguents add a luxurious touch. Light wood-toned cabinetry with clean, simple lines, emphasises the beds and bedding, which also features rich wood headboards. What differentiates them are
34 WORLD OF CRUISING I Winter 2010 / 2011
the draperies, bolsters, accent pillows and upholstery. Correcting the design flaw of Queen Victoria when she entered service, sliding drawers under the bed provide added storage space. However, hanging wardrobe space for a world cruise would still be a challenge. The Princess Grill suites – similar in layout to mini-suites on P&O Cruises duo Azura and Ventura – enjoy a combination of light wood tones with rich mahogany accents. In the considerably larger Queens Grill suites, the draperies are in a beige-striped fabric with gold tones; the sofas are patterned chenille, while the carpets are teal blue with beige and cream accents. The six Master and Grand
suites – named in honour of past Cunard Commodores who received knighthoods – all have a bespoke décor and are amongst the most lavish to be found on any passenger ship.
Queen Mary and the first class smoking room on the original Queen Elizabeth.
Named after another famous Cunarder, Café
Carinthia mirrors the style and sophistication of a French patisserie. This most harmonious room features large carved glass panels, marble floor mosaics and a hand-painted ceiling. It is highlighted by period grace notes in shades of gold, blue and rich bronze. Possibly the most iconic space on board is the
Queens Room. Inspired by the Royal Gardens at Hampton Court Palace as well as Balmoral Castle, this two-deck high, loggia-style room is redolent of a grand ballroom in a large country house. Four cantilevered balconies overlooking the dance floor have classically ornate detailing, curved railings and hand-painted columns. Two magnificent
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