QE2 en route to Dubai on ultimate voyage
QE2, the world's most famous ocean liner, has now departed from Southampton, UK, on her ultimate voyage to Dubai. She will arrive at Mina Rashid in 15 days to undergo a transformation that will see her become a floating hotel property on the eastern trunk side of the Palm Jumeirah. QE2 Southampton departure was marked by a farewell visit from HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the fly-past of a Harrier jump jet, which hovered and bowed to QE2 just 500 feet off her stern.
Manfred Ursprunger, CEO, QE2 Enterprises, Nakheel Hotels, said, "The arrival of QE2 is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Nakheel is proud to be the custodian of such a historic treasure. Plans for QE2 include her transformation into an ultra-luxury floating hotel where she will form the centerpiece of a luxurious residential, entertainment, marina and hotel development off the trunk of Palm Jumeirah. A heritage museum displaying artifacts from QE2 and of local maritime history will also feature in the precinct."
Dubai World purchased QE2 last year to transform it into a floating hotel property. Nakheel has already commenced construction on a luxury marina development on the Palm Jumeirah for QE2. QE2 will form the pinnacle of a palatial pier that will stretch 300 m out from the trunk into the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
