MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

QE2 “retires” to Dubai's world wonder Palm Jumeirah

Istithmar agree to pay £ 50 million for the Q2

Cunard liner QE2 is to cease ocean cruises and become a luxury floating hotel. The 70,000-ton vessel, launched by the Queen Elizabeth in 1967 and which carried millions across the Atlantic, is to be sold to the Dubai World company in an estimated 100 million US dollars deal.

The famous cruise will be delivered to Dubai World in November next year and will be berthed, from 2009, at a specially-constructed pier at The Palm Jumeirah development in Dubai. The Palm development is the world's largest man-made island, where luxury properties - owned by a galaxy of stars - stretch out into the Persian Gulf off the shore of Dubai. Dubai World, whose investment arm Istithmar has made the purchase of the QE2, already owns shipping company P&O. Istithmar 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. Cunard president and managing director Carol Marlow said: "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." Dubai World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem 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." QE2 became the longest-serving ship in Cunard's 168-year history. The vessel has crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times and has carried more than 2.5 million passengers, Istithmar said. In 1982 the vessel was requisitioned as a troop carrier for the Falklands War.