QE2 destined for Dubai

Kazakhstan News.Net
Saturday 23rd February, 2008

The flagship of the Cunard ocean liners, QE2, is in Sydney Sunday on an historic last visit.

The ship entered Sydney harbour at dawn and berthed at 7:00am local time, alongside its sister ship, the new Queen Victoria.

QE2 made her maiden voyage in 1969 and is one of the last great Transatlantic liners. At 70,327 tons and 963 feet long with a top speed of 32.5 knots she is also one of the largest and fastest passenger vessels afloat.

The popular liner made her maiden visit to Sydney in 1978. Sydneysiders have turned out in droves to see the ship for the last time.

The QE2 has been sold to Dubai World for $100 million and will be decommissioned in November.
The ship will make its final voyage to Dubai that month where she will cease her role as an ocean-going passenger vessel and be refurbished and adapted for her new home.

From 2009, the vessel will be berthed at a specially-constructed pier at The Palm Jumeirah, the world’s largest man-made island, to create a luxury floating hotel, retail and entertainment destination.

The ship, which was launched by Her Majesty The Queen in September 1967, 40 years ago this year, is the longest-serving ship in Cunard’s 168-year history, and was their longest-serving flagship. Since she came into service in 1969, she has undertaken 25 world cruises, has crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times and has carried more than 2.5 million passengers.

Carol Marlow, president and managing director of Cunard, said at the time of the sale, “We are delighted that when her legendary career as an ocean liner ends there will continue to be a permanent home for her that will enable future generations to continue to experience fully both the ship and her history.”

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of Dubai World, said, “QE2 is without a doubt one of the wonders of the maritime world, and is easily the most famous serving liner in the world today. I am delighted we will be able to create a home for her on the newest wonder of the world, The Palm Jumeirah.'

“QE2 at The Palm Jumeirah will become one of the must-see experiences of Dubai and of the Middle East. We are investing in creating a truly global tourism destination.'

“Dubai is a maritime nation and we understand the rich heritage of QE2. She is coming to a home where she will be cherished.”

Dubai World said its refurbishment programme will aim to recreate QE2’s original interior decor and fittings. QE2 at The Palm Jumeirah will also include a museum celebrating the rich history of the ship.

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