Queen Mary 2

Queen Mary 2 is the only true ocean liner in regular service, built in 2004 with a deep, strong hull and the speed to cross the North Atlantic on a schedule. Her signature voyage is the seven-night transatlantic crossing between Southampton and New York, a week of sea days filled with lectures, ballroom dancing, afternoon tea and black-tie evenings. Inside, she is grand and traditional, with sweeping staircases, a vast library and the largest ballroom at sea. A 2016 remastering refreshed her interiors and expanded her kennels. She also sails world voyages and seasonal cruises, but the crossing is the reason to book her.

Best for: Anyone who dreams of crossing the Atlantic by sea, and travelers who enjoy dressing up, ballroom dancing and long, restful sea days.

Cunard is the world’s oldest and most famous name in ocean travel, sailing four elegant Queens, including Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner in regular transatlantic service between Southampton and New York. Expect gala evenings, afternoon tea, ballroom dancing and British tradition. It suits travelers who love classic ocean travel, dressing up and long voyages, less so anyone wanting casual, high-energy cruising.