It has been over half a century since the roar of jet engines sounded the death knell of the transatlantic ocean liner. The seas have seen those sleek, yacht like racers gradually disappear in favor of floating white resorts. The Cunard Line risked ruin many years back by building the QUEEN ELIZABETH 2 for a declining market. Luckily for them she was a resounding success. She has since been retired and in her place there is a magnificent trio of ships: QUEEN MARY 2, QUEEN VICTORIA, and QUEEN ELIZABETH. The flagship QM2 was built as a true liner; her design was intended for the harsh North Atlantic. The two smaller vessels, QV & QE, are improved versions of the Vista class cruise ships. Some decry them as an insult to Cunard's heritage and unworthy of the title, "Queen." Personally, I'm just happy to see Cunard thrive in the 21st century.
