By Paul Ebeling: The world famous ocean liner is being converted into a luxury hotel and museum
Social media users have been offered a 1st glimpse inside the world world famous Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) ocean liner as it undergoes a multi-million-dollar conversion into a hotel.
The ship had been thought forgotten after several plans to convert it failed to materialize following a $100-M acquisition in Y 2007 by Dubai World unit Istithmar.
However, there were indications of a revival over the last 6 months after new signs appeared outside the ship, which now falls under the ownership of Dubai government entity Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation.
A new website also went live in February featuring the message ‘coming soon’ before maritime fans reported the ship had been moved in March to undergo conversion work at Dubai’s Drydocks World.
An Instagram post by QE2 Dubai recently showed staff welcoming the ship back to Mina Rashid port for the “final phase of her restoration” after a two-week deep cleaning and paint retouch at the drydocks.
The social media account has also revealed further details of the ship’s interior.
There will be 12 food and beverage venues, from casual and fine dining, to grand theaters and nightclubs.
Another post 5 days ago offered the 1st look at the room design, which clearly appears intended to maintain the ship’s original charm.
“Comfortable, refined and replete with the authentic elegance of her former years, the Queen Elizabeth 2 rooms and suites have been thoughtfully restored with all of the modern technological conveniences of today, blended with her maritime interiors,” a caption read.
“Expect dark wood paneling, comfortable bedding, fresh paneling and vintage appliances redefined.”
While the most recent post on Wednesday confirmed previous reports that the revamp would feature an interactive museum, portraying the ship’s origins, in its lobby.
This will include actual and replicated artifacts and three reproduced spaces including the bridge, a 1st Class cabin and the Queen’s Room.
“The self-guided exhibition will feature evocative sound effects and captivating information panels in both English and Arabic,” according to the post.
The QE2 set sail in Y 1969 and steamed 6-M nautical miles, carried 2.5-M passengers and was even sent to war as a troop and supply carrier.
When refurbished as a hotel the 293m ship is expected to have 300 rooms in total.
No opening date has been confirmed but the Instragram account has said it will not be long “until her new journey begins”.Source: Live Trading News…
