Queen Elizabeth 2, often referred to as QE2, was a renowned British ocean liner that sailed for over 40 years, from 1969 to 2008. It was named after Queen Elizabeth II and was one of the most iconic passenger ships of the 20th century. QE2 was constructed by the British shipbuilding company John Brown & Company and launched on September 20, 1967.
7 Unique Aspects of the Ship
- Size: QE2 was approximately 963 feet (294 meters) long, making it one of the largest passenger ships of its time.
- Accommodations: The ship offered a wide range of cabins and staterooms, catering to both first-class and tourist-class passengers. It was known for its luxurious interiors and excellent service.
- Cruises: QE2 primarily operated as a transatlantic liner, connecting Southampton, England, with New York City, providing a luxurious and comfortable way to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
- Speed: The ship was celebrated for its speed, capable of cruising at an average speed of 28.5 knots, ensuring quicker transatlantic crossings.
- Renovations: Throughout its service, QE2 underwent several renovations and refurbishments to keep it modern and competitive in the evolving cruise industry.
- Retirement: In 2008, QE2 was retired from regular service, marking the end of an era in transatlantic travel.
- Legacy: QE2 is remembered for its iconic status, luxurious amenities, and its role in transatlantic travel history. After retirement, the ship was permanently docked in Dubai, where it was intended to be preserved as a floating hotel and museum.
QE2 has been docked permanently in Dubai since being sold in 2008. The ship finally opened as a hotel on 18 April 2018. Queen Elizabeth 2 is a historic gem and the only floating hotel in Dubai.
Located in Port Rashid, the QE2 is minutes away from the beach, the metro and near Dubai Downtown, home to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Dubai International Airport is a short drive away.
