Models & Kits

RMS Queen Elizabeth And QE2: A History

The RMS Queen Elizabeth conjures connotation of patriotic ­glamour and luxury dating back over 70 years and still going strong today. After the depression of the 1920’s the hull of her sister, Queen Victoria, was left almost derelict at Clydebank. After being offered an £8 million loan her owner Cunard Line set about getting not only hull 534 (as she was known)ship shape but he also began working on the RMS Queen Elizabeth too after merging with the cruise company White Star.

The Queen Elizabeth’s maiden journey was set to offer all the pomp and circumstance her name demanded. With the outbreak of the Second World War, her original designation as a luxury liner was put on hold whilst she aided the war efforts. her unscheduled change in career didn’t go unnoticed, as both her and her running mate the Queen Victoria were hailed as great helps toward the war ending by Winston Churchill. It wasn’t until the mid 40’s that both the Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mary were able to begin their original commission as ocean liners. For over 20 years these magnificent ships sailed the Atlantic symbolising the golden era of the cruise industry for Cunard Cruises.

To ensure Cunard was able to keep up with the times, it was decided the two liners needed to be replaced towards the end of the 60’s. Planes were not only quicker, but they were a lot cheaper and fitted people lifestyles better too. The QE2 was launched in 1969 and would go on to become of the most iconic ships to ever sail. Although smaller and cheaper than her predecessor, the QE2 still retained the glamour associated with a Cunard liner allowing her to compete with the air travel industry. After being the flag ship of not only Cunard cruises but the epitome of luxury 5 star cruises in general, she was brought by a Dubai investment company in 2007. The uncertain financial future of Dubai has halted the original plans to convert it into an opulent floating hotel. Unfortunately this has meant she has been left floating almost derelict at the moment.

Not long after the sale of the QE2, Cunard announced they’ll soon be launched the third Elizabeth ship. With the launch of the MS Queen Elizabeth expected in the autumn of 2010 it’s promised to be the very embodiment of five star cruises and one of the most advanced ships on the water. Said to have the essence of the 1930’s in its interior decor it will exemplify the spirit and the class of its name sake predecessor.

 

WW2 Royal Yugoslav Navy destroyer