Cruise tips (ocean, big ship)

I have zero excursions (Queen Mary 2, New York to Southampton). I asked about this ship a year or so ago. My family finally decided to do it (and, it turns out, the wait was worthwhile since I read the ship had a refit a few months ago).

The disembarkation tips are great but also happy to hear any other tips (e.g. we opted for “open dining” as opposed to “early or late dining”…I can’t help but think “open dining” is a trick…why wouldn’t everyone want that?).