Cunard Line?s QE2 Bid Farewell by Her Majesty The Queen

Cunard Cruises have today confirmed the visit of Her Majesty The Queen to bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth 2 in Southampton on Monday 2nd June 2008. QE2 is due to leave the Cunard fleet in November before starting a new life in Dubai as a first class hotel and entertainment destination. The Queen will start her bid farewell with a tour of the ship as well as meeting many crew members before attending a reception and lunch onboard. To finish she will be presented with 55 red roses to mark 55 years to the day since The Queen’s Coronation. Cunard’s President and Managing Director, Carol Marlow, comments: “We are delighted and honoured that Her Majesty The Queen has chosen to visit QE2 to wish her farewell. Her Majesty has taken a close interest in the ship over the last forty years, having launched the ship, visited twice and reviewed the ship four times, including during the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of D Day. I am certain this final visit will be a memorable occasion for all involved”. Doug Morrison, Port Director, ABP Southampton, says: “It’s wonderful to welcome Her Majesty The Queen and Baroness Thatcher to bid farewell to QE2. This event, and the recent meeting of Cunard’s three Queens in April for the last time ever, have both highlighted the important role that the Port of Southampton has played historically, and will continue to play, as Cunard’s homeport.”