Cunard’s latest vessel, the Queen Victoria, steams into Southampton tomorrow for its Monday christening by another novice royal — Camilla. The QV’s arrival kicks off a three-day Christmas festival in Mayflower Park, where you can view the ship until it departs Tuesday on its maiden voyage through Northern Europe. The British line’s second-biggest boat ever built (smaller than the Queen Mary 2 but larger than the QE2, which retires next year to Dubai), the QV may be the most luxurious. Before she left Fincantieri’s shipyard near Venice, globorati got a first-look at her stately interiors — which showcase the first West End-style theater at sea, with 16 private boxes catered by white-gloved ushers.

There’s also a “Winter Garden” conservatory with a retractable glass dome, and a Royal Spa with hydro-pool and thermal suite (this toasty lounge boasts some of the best sea-views in the house). For upscale dining options you’ve got a Veuve Clicquot champagne bar and a Todd English Restaurant. But the QV really shines for guests staying in premium rooms such as the 2,000-square-foot Grand Suite with butler service, whirlpool tub and pillow concierge service. Top-paying cruisers can also steer clear of steerage by private elevators and exclusive courtyard dining. It’s all smooth sailing except for one thing: next year’s world cruise is already sold out.