New York Greets Liner

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31983, 9 May 1969, Page 11

New York Greets Liner

(N .Z .P. A.-Reuter—Copyright) NEW YORK, May 8.

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2 lies berthed at New York’s famous Pier 92 after a tumultuous welcome into one of the world’s busiest harbours after a five-day maiden voyage from Southampton.

The 65,863-ton vessel received a welcome as she steamed up the Hudson River by at least 150 smaller ships tooting their whistles at her sides and trailing in her wake. Despite the ship’s impressive stature and accommodation there were some complaints from the 1451 passengers—primarily those in the tourist cl-ss Some complained that the •i .

food was sub-standard, compared with the rich choice and quality on the old Queen Elizabeth. Others complained that the ship’s crew of 928 was not large enough and that there was much standing in line and delays in getting stewards.

Other complaints from the tourist class also listed that there were no door hooks In the cabins on which to hang one’s hat and that the bathtubs were too small for comfortable bathing. A major complaint from the first class passengers, those who had often sailed aboard the old Queen, was that the new vessel was too modish and lacked the charm and elegance of its predecessor. : i Mrs Aniel Murphy, of Pennsylvania. who made six trips' labeard the old Queen said:; (“They should have done the [ship in any decar but mod[eru. With the modern decor,:

, the name somehow doesn't [fit—she's not a Queen. “There is nothing stately about her. This is the biggest they made," Mrs Murphy said. However, there were many Queen Elizabeth 2. Mr Bob Queen Elizabeth 11. Mr Bob Woodhouse, a steward, called her “a lovely lass, right enough .. . sails very smooth she does.” And the Mayor of New York (Mr John Lindsay), who went aboard her as she entered the Hudson River, said: “I still think she's a fine ship,” after he bumped his head on a beam.

In a prepared speech, Mr Lindsay said: "This is not a nation of royalty, nor a city ;which often pays homage to nobility. But today New York City has a new “Queen—and she has already won our hearts."