Cunard's Queen Mary 2 reigns supreme as the world's only ocean 'liner' in the true sense of the word. No one can fail to be impressed with its graceful and powerful appearance, while inside this 2,620-passenger ship, the interiors are equally impressive with palatial lounges, elegant bars and dignified restaurants boasting oodles of old style and sophisticated glamour. A transatlantic voyage is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers and no ship afloat is better suited to this week-long oceanic journey.

When it comes to accommodation on Queen Mary 2, there are no fewer than 28 grades of staterooms. Some travellers are content with a modest cabin, while others are prepared to splash out considerably more for a split-level penthouse complete with butlers tending to their slightest whim. Restaurant allocation depends on cabin categories with the majority of passengers dining in the Britannia Restaurant - the most stunning room at sea, bar none. The exclusive Princess Grill and decadent Queens Grill are reserved for passengers opting for suites, while the stylish Todd English restaurant is open to anyone who pays the cover charge for the American celebrity chef's renowned cuisine. Dress code, revised in 2013, is either 'informal' (jacket but no tie) or 'formal', a chance to bring out the finery, much appreciated by our clients in today's world of relaxed lifestyle.

Queen Mary 2 is packed to the gunwales with countless diversions to fill each day: from drama classes with RADA, to star-gazing in the only planetarium at sea; from ballroom dancing in the impressive Queens Room, to revitalising treatments in the Canyon Ranch SpaClub. The Royal Court Theatre affords unimpeded sightlines for the revue shows, as well as Cunard's comprehensive 'Insights' programme of lectures by leading experts, royal commentators, historians and celebrities.