‘Greyhound of the Seas’ Takes a Rest in Sydney
The world’s fastest and most famous ocean liner, Queen Elizabeth 2, arrived in Sydney today as a preview to her return next summer with maiden visitor and big sister, Queen Mary 2.
The longest-serving Cunarder ever, after more than 36 years, QE2 is dubbed the ‘greyhound’ of the seas because of her enduring record as the fastest liner in the world, capable of speeds of 32.5 knots or 60km/h. The icon of luxury travel can also sail backwards (19 knots or 35km/h) faster than most ships can sail forward.
The legendary QE2 docked in Sydney at 6am today, February 15, for a two-night stay as part of an epic 109-night circumnavigation of the globe that will see her visit 42 ports on five continents. She will sail at 2pm on Friday February 17 for Melbourne, before continuing on to Adelaide, Perth and Bali. Passengers are paying between A$24,686 and $174,113 each for the complete world voyage, including all meals and entertainment.
QE2’s visit to Sydney next year will be part of a history-making day on February 20, 2007, when she will be joined in Sydney Harbour by the celebrated QM2 which will smash the record as the biggest ship of any kind ever to visit Australia.
QE2’s visit to Australia in 2007 will be a highlight of her 25th silver jubilee world voyage which will bring her to Sydney together with QM2 – the first time since 1941 that two Cunard Queens have graced Sydney Harbour together. The much-anticipated dual visits will land ashore in Sydney a record 6800 passengers and crew as part of a $4 million tourism bonanza for the city.
Cunard Line Australia Managing Director Gavin Smith said both QE2 and QM2 were designed to capture the grandeur and romance of the ‘golden age’ of cruising.
“A voyage aboard a stately Cunard liner rekindles an era when the journey was just as important as the destination.” Mr Smith said. “But as grand a dame as she is, QE2 will have to share the limelight when QM2 joins her in Sydney Harbour next February – an exciting spectacle that will highlight the expanding popularity of cruising worldwide.”
Graham Muldoon
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