HOBNOB WITH LITERARY LIONS ON QM2

It’s time to talk about another exciting transatlantic crossing — one with a literary twist.

This December, Cunard Line (cruise.center/cunard) is hosting what is becoming a tradition for the company: its Literature Festival at Sea aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2.

Departing from Southampton, England on Dec. 1, 2020 and arriving in New York seven days later, the oceangoing literary event aboard Queen Mary 2 is headlined by authors Ian Rankin, Alexander Mccall Smith and Prue Leith.

They will be joined by Kate Mosse, Joanne Harris, Simon Armitage, Pam Ayres and Alan Johnson, along with columnists from London’s The Times newspaper.

For those interested in writing, Cunard will be offering workshops and master classes for aspiring authors. Bibliotherapists — something I didn’t personally know was a thing — will be on board as well, creating handcrafted reading lists for guests. And literary critics and editors will pick their best books of the year on board this special crossing. Josh Leibowitz, senior vice-president for Cunard North America, said: “We are excited to once again offer a celebration for book-lovers in a unique setting as they sail across the Atlantic on board our stunning flagship Queen

Mary 2. The transatlantic crossing on Cunard is the perfect time for authors, poets and artists to gather for readings, discussion and creative ideas.”

It’s a cool idea and Queen Mary 2 lends itself well to this pursuit.

Spending seven days crossing the Atlantic is a win for avid readers and budding authors alike, with plenty of time for reading and writing out on deck or in one of the ship’s spacious public rooms. It also doesn’t hurt that Queen Mary 2 boasts one of the largest libraries at sea, with an estimated 8,000 different titles — including a wonderful section on maritime and Cunard history.

I always end up reading in the library for a few hours each day on my own crossings aboard the ship, and books can be checked out for free and read in your stateroom or elsewhere on the ship for the duration of the voyage. These literary activities — including lectures and sessions — are provided free of charge. Other pastimes on board include daily white-gloved afternoon tea served in the largest ballroom at sea; live music throughout the ship; and a host of informative lectures and presentations by notable professionals in their chosen field. Queen Mary 2 even boasts its own planetarium.