Queen Bids Farewell to QE2

June 4, 2008 by admin 

Her Majesty the Queen has bid farewell to QE2 in Southampton. The Queen toured the vessel before attending a reception and lunch onboard.

The QE2 entered service in 1969 and has been the flagship of the Cunard fleet for 35 years. QE2 has traveled a staggering 5.6million miles carrying over 2.5million guests in its time. Cunard will be losing the QE2 in November 2008 after completing 25 World cruises and crossing the Atlantic 803 times. From November the QE2 is to become a top class hotel and entertainment destination in Dubai.

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.”

Filed under: Cunard Cruise Lines News, Queen Elizabeth 2