The legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 starts a new chapter in her storied history as a floating hotel, dining and entertainment destination in Dubai
There is no ship in recent memory that symbolized the history and legacy of the Cunard Ocean Liners than that of Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2). Unquestionably the most famous ship in the world, for nearly 40 years the QE2 was a global ambassador for both Cunard and Britain sailing over 5.6 million miles around the globe and carrying more than 2.5 million passengers in style, comfort and luxury.
Built in Clydebank, Scotland, the QE2 was used for 25 world cruises and more than 800 transatlantic crossings between 1969 to 2008, although her sailing days have now drawn to an end, the QE2 lives on as a luxury floating hotel moored in Dubai. Unveiled earlier this year in April the QE2 opened its doors to the public following highly anticipated international interest. PCFC Hotels - part of the Dubai government’s Ports, Customs and Free Zones Corporation has following an extensive refurbishment costing over $100million reinvented the legendary vessel as the latest must-see tourism destination, in a city renowned for its world-class attractions.
Docked permanently at Mina Rashid, the world-famous cruise liner’s interiors have been luxuriously reformed back to here glorious heyday whilst advanced modern technology provides luxurious benefits for today’s most concerning traveler. On board passengers can experience a selection of beautifully restored rooms and suites, and explore her rich history in the adjacent QE2 Heritage Exhibition.
The 13-deck hotel has been thoughtfully restored to her former glory – maintaining her most loved interior design features - including her period furniture, renowned paintings and famous memorabilia. The original porthole windows still add a maritime feel to the attractive modernized guest rooms and a number of her original restaurants have retained the same names and décor as her former years. Whilst extensively preserving her authentic elements, she has been fully equipped with all the latest technology.
Adjacent to the hotel lobby is the QE2 Exhibition – an interactive museum that showcases the QE2 during the 60’s when she was a pioneer in design, technology and lifestyle – words often used to describe the city she resides in today.
From small but beautifully designed ‘cabin’ style Standard Rooms starting at 17m², to the 76m² Royal Suites belonging to the Queen herself – the QE2 offers a selection of 13 room and suite categories for Passengers to experience.
The jewel in the crown of the QE2 is the two Royal Suites named after the Queen’s mother and grandmother. These suites offer a private veranda, conservatory and dining room – in addition to a luxurious bedroom. Highly personalized amenities are included for Passengers who can book the suite by invitation only.
The hotel’s signature restaurant The Queens Grill will offer passengers a refined selection of British fine-dining dishes as well as a tasting menu that recreates a classic selection of dishes from 1969. In total the QE2 offers 12 dining options, full of reminders of the ship’s past, from the Chart Room- a sophisticated and historical lounge and bar for a time-capsule experience to The Golden Lion – a traditional English pub and potentially one of Dubai’s oldest; The Pavilion – a family restaurant with an expansive terrace overlooking the marina; Lido – the hotel’s all-day-dining restaurant; The Grand Lounge – a cabaret-style lounge with a weekly entertainment program; and the Yacht Club – a chic rendition of the former venue as well as a unique take on the traditional afternoon tea.
For those looking to waltz the night away the QE2 is home to also home to an inimitable ballroom The Queen’s Room a venue unlike any other in the city.
The grand launch of the QE2 will take place in October
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