New Ships and New Features

This month we’ve seen the new Queen Elizabeth being named by the British Monarch in Southampton. She takes 2014 passengers in classic Cunard luxury and has a real focus on what the Brits like best, including ballroom dancing with lessons and exhibitions like ‘Strictly’, a huge pub and a theatre with boxes like those seen at the Royal Variety Show.

But she’s not the only ship trying to entice us. Next year we can opt for Disney Dream who will carry 4000 passengers and offer the longest water slide at sea, animated portholes in the inside cabins (they feature Disney characters at regular intervals, naturally enough) and a host Disney-themed family fun.

If that doesn’t appeal, what about Oceania Marina? She debuts in January 2011 too, and carries just 1260 guests who get to choose from six restaurants. Size and opulence are the key features of this new ship, with really expansive staterooms and suites on offer.