QE2: THE LAST CROSSING

THE QE2 COULD END NOW IN CAPE TOWN

2009-07-12T14:11:00.002-04:00

Is the QE2 heading to Cape Town?

More sad news about the Old Lady of the Seas.

A FINAL POST OF A MEMORABLE JOURNEY

2009-01-20T03:26:00.004-05:00

The Virginian-Pilot published two full pages with this marvelous story written by my wife Deborah, it's the best way to end this blog.

Thank you for reading.

It has been a great journey in great company.

The QE2 and all of you.

Enjoy it!

I name this ship Queen Elizabeth the Second,
“May God bless her and all who sail in her.”
Queen Elizabeth II, 20 September 1967

Dear friends,

You asked what a trip aboard QE2, the “grande dame” of liners, was really like, so I thought I’d sit down and put some thoughts on paper. Forgive the tardiness of this letter. I needed some distance between me and the ship to put it all into perspective.

Day one: The alarm buzzed at 6:45 a.m. and … just kidding! But I do want to give you a bit of background. We boarded QE2 on Oct.16, the start of what was to be her “Farewell Trans-Atlantic Crossing” from New York City to Southampton, England. For me, this would be the return journey my grandparents had begun more than 80 years before. On Sept. 30, 1921, four members of my family left their Welsh valley for a one-way ticket to America. One of them, just 3½ years old at the time, was my father. Another legendary liner, Aquitania, carried them safely into New York Harbor and to a new life. I never did ask my father if he had any memory of it.

Despite my own sentimental notions and the lure of QE2, I must admit that I was apprehensive about spending six days and five nights afloat, captive inside a steel hull. The claustrophobia set in as soon as we embarked. Everything looked so, well, airtight. And dispensers of antibacterial soap were everywhere. “Never touch the railings!” one American warned me. I told my son, Tâm, “Don’t put your hands in your mouth for the entire trip!” Funny how the fear of germs can wipe out any notion of luxury.

I wasn’t prepared for my first impressions, either. I had read that QE2 had been updated a few times since 1967, and while any ’60s interior looked positively modern today, the ship was awash in a wave of ’80s mauve and teal, without any particular style or glamour. But a big surprise was just around the corner. A few weeks before sailing, my husband had created an Internet blog about the crossing. It was chock-full of ocean liner history and imagery, and someone in Cunard’s PR office was impressed enough to bump us all the way up to Signal Deck, otherwise known as first class. Goodbye, antibacterial; hello, goose down!

Now, Signal Deck was entirely gold and white, like a grandmother’s French provincial bedroom. The stateroom was gold, too, but with black accents. Not opulent, but classic, with a private deck and three chairs. The sliding-glass door could be opened any time of day or night; no fear of claustrophobia here. Within minutes, Tâm began to jump up and down on the double beds and wave the two plastic Union Jacks he received at embarkation. I let him jump just long enough to take a photo. He can show it to his children someday: “Here’s Daddy being goofy on a famous old ocean liner!”

Midway down the hall on this lofty deck was a tiny stainless steel galley. This was the purser station, and the staff was properly aproned in black and white, straight out of an episode of “Masterpiece Theatre.” The galley smelled slightly of coffee and chocolate, a hint of things to come. Then just before getting under way, as they say, a perky purser with an elfin face appeared in the doorway: “After you’ve unpacked, just leave your cases where they are, and when you return from dinner they’ll have magically disappeared!” Sweet. It might be best to stop right here and tell you that my favorite British expression in the world is “to be looked after.” Sailing on QE2 is, as you might expect, the ultimate being-looked-after experience. The difference between supreme service and basic, this trip taught me, is not the amount of time spent taking care of you, it’s the special way it’s done that makes you feel as if you were the only one to have ever been cared for on the ship, the only one to have slept in the bed, the only one to have had an egg white for breakfast, the only one to have had hot Belgian cocoa brought to your room at midnight. Oh, and by the way, in the ’70s, one of our pursers used to serve the crooner Dean Martin and his family hot chocolate every night. “They were ever so lovely,” she said.

So, how did we spend our days? Let’s just say they were full of shuffleboard games on a very windy deck, liner-paraphernalia shopping, yummy food, wonderful readings in the library and very British “Enrichment Lecture Programs” in the theater, on topics such as “Famous QE2 Celebrity Guests” and “The Diana I Remember and What Really Happened.” But I would rather tell you about the moments when, little by little, I fell in love with QE2. The first one happened on the third day at about 5 o’clock, when we sailed over Titanic’s resting place. We all looked down and, of course, didn’t see anything, but we felt as if we had.

The second was on the very last day, when Queen Mary 2, which had been sailing in tandem with QE2, left us to follow another course. Each ship shot a series of hornblasts to form a nautical last goodbye. QE2’s blast sounded hoarser, more elegant, as if the sound had come from a loving mother’s voice before slipping off to tend her garden, while her teen daughter jets off to party at Piccadilly Circus.

While these group events were lovely, mistyeyed affairs, there was one more private experience that trumped all others. For the first two days onboard, Tâm had avoided “the nursery.” Having attended U.K. schools, he was aware that in the British definition, a nursery doesn’t just mean a place for the diapered, crib-bound crowd – but nevertheless he avoided this children’s space like the plague. And it didn’t help that the previous day I had read in the literature that there was a “youth chill-out” room on the ship, only to learn that it had been closed for this trip, being the last go and all, and with so few children aboard. His hope of countless shipboard hours of Wii activity was gone, not to mention that the rite of passage to these “youth activities” began at age 8 – exactly the age he had just become. So, all in all, he was, in a word he loves to say, glum. Then, during dinner on the third night, between the salad and the entree, he agreed that I could escort him up to the Sun Deck and to the dreaded nursery. Too many hours of adult pursuits had beaten him down. The nursery entrance was charmingly placed between the QE2 kennels and the off-limits area where the officers live. When the door opened I couldn’t believe my eyes. This part of the ship had obviously never been touched. It appeared to be a perfectly preserved play area from the early years. The sea-life paintings on the wall were a bit yellowed, and the walls were festooned with dusty British flags. For Tâm it was a trip down memory lane, and a replica of his old play-group schoolroom in Wales. The little plastic cars you
ride in, the sandbox, the puzzles, the snack table – everything was there. He stepped on a skateboard and realized he didn’t need to push. QE2 whizzed him from starboard to port side like magic! He was hooked. I signed him in. The two child-minders said they’d “look after him” and to enjoy the evening. It’s noteworthy to say that the North Atlantic is not a body of water for pleasure-cruisers. It had been rough seas all day and increasingly so during the night. When I lived in the U.K., I learned about wind speed while listening to the midnight sea forecasts on Irish radio. I knew gale force 8 was close to 50 mph. This particular night, QE2 was listing quite a bit from side to side, as only she could do. The newer liners are fitted with large stabilizers for a smoother ride. Still, as we wobbled up to collect Tâm from the nursery, I was thinking how cozy the ship felt – and suddenly realized there was no place I would rather be. From a bird’s-eye view, we were just a pinpoint of light in this vast ocean. Insignificant. It was awe-inspiring to have this feeling of utter and complete safety in such a situation, especially when everything had seemed so very foreign at the start. The grand QE2 was no longer a ship to me; she was a humble home that I had the honor of sharing. We rang the nursery bell, and the child-minder greeted us in a whisper. A slumbering baby was just being lifted from her crib by her ship’s officer father. And then I spotted Tâm, still wearing his tie, jacket and vest, snuggled in one of the vintage Naugahyde bean bags. Next to him was a young girl in a pink, petticoated party dress. The remake of “The Parent Trap” (Remember how the parents fell in love on the QE2?) was playing in the old VHS player. No plasma here, just a box-style, 19-inch set.

The remainder of our evenings ended like this one, calm and secure. And soon the time came for us to disembark. As is tradition, the crew docks QE2 in Southampton during the wee hours, and when you awake, you find you’re not moving anymore. But your body still feels like it is. A nice take-away from the journey of a lifetime.
Deborah Withey was the former deputy managing editor for presentation and joint ventures at The Virginian-Pilot. She now lives and works from her studio in Wales, United Kingdom. Reach her at cheesepicklesstudio@gmail.com

A QE2 ANCHOR AS A GIFT

2008-11-30T11:07:00.002-05:00

The Sunday Mirror reports:

One of the giant anchors from the QE2 cruise liner is to be returned to Southampton as a gift from its new owners, the Dubai royal family. The announcement was made during the official handover of the ship, which is to be turned into a luxury floating hotel. Doug Morrison, Southampton's port director, said: "One of the Queen Elizabeth 2's anchors is a fitting memento of this beloved, historic ship and one that will be welcome in Southampton." A search is now under way for the best position to display the anchor.

A VIDEO FOR THE QE2 HAN OVER TO NAKHEEL IN DUBAI

2008-11-30T11:01:00.003-05:00

AME Info has a brief video of the hand over ceremony.

Watch it here.

Nakheel's projects are estimated to be worth $80 billion.

Upon completion Nakheel's waterfront projects will have added more than 1,000km of shoreline to Dubai's coastline.

Nakheel's Dubai portfolio includes Nakheel Harbour & Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, Palm Deira, The World, Waterfront, The Universe, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Village, Jumeirah Park, Jumeirah Heights, The Gardens, Discovery Gardens, Ibn Battuta Mall, Al Furjan, International City, and Dragon Mart.

Picture buy PA.

LIVE COVERAGE, MINUTE BY MINUTE OF THE QE2 FINAL DOCKING

2008-11-26T13:04:00.002-05:00

Arabian Business Tom Arnold reported live as the QE2 arrived to Dubai:

18.50 UAE time: Well it has been a long and emotional day, one I'm likely to remember for the rest of my life.

It is now time for me to sign off and leave the passengers to their exclusive party on the ship this evening.

Tomorrow they will disembark, for the last time, after which the QE2 will transformed into a floating hotel that will be docked on the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah.

18.40: A glittering fireworks display lights up the sky above the QE2, sparking the subdued crowds back into life.

The Dubai Police band, still blowing on their bagpipes, march up the red carpet and onto the cruise ship.

18.25: The welcoming party of dignitaries dressed in UAE national dress and suits are walking up the gangway and entering the ship.

The feverish excitement of the crowds has died down somewhat and now everybody seems to be waiting for the much-anticipated fireworks to begin.

18.18: The gangway has been lowered and several members of the crew in glistening white uniforms have come onto the dock to secure the gangway.

Two helicopters are circling above the cruise ship and the spotlights continue illuminate the ship.

18.00: The QE2 has literally just docked at Port Rashid and an official welcoming party is in position on the red carpet.

After circumnavigating the world 25 times, crossing the Atlantic Ocean 800 times and carrying 2.5 million passengers in 40 years the QE2 has docked for the last time.

It is a very emotional occasion. To see such an iconic vessel dock for the last time - this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

17.55: The red carpet has been rolled out in readiness for the QE2's arrival as the cruise ship is now only a few hundred metres from the dock.

The Dubai Police band has struck up a tune - playing Scottish bagpipes - accompanied by a group of drummers.

Spotlights fall on the QE2 and the excitement among the crowds on the dock and on the cruise ship is now at fever pitch.

17.45: It's party mood on the dock as the QE2 is tugged into port. Passengers on the QE2 are also in high spirits, with the deck of the cruise ship lined with people waving flags and taking pics.

17.28: Spotted the cheering crowds - a few hundred people waving Union Jack and UAE flags standing by the port. The QE2 is making its way slowly into port.

17.25: Finally back on solid ground. The QE2 has just let out an enormous bellowing sound from its horn as it comes into port.

17.13: We are just about to dock at Port Rashid. We have been greeted by a few people and lots of container boxes and fork lift trucks, maybe the cheering crowds are stuck in traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road.

The QE2 has stopped about a kilometre out to sea, I hope it hasn't run out of fuel.

17.10: I've been told there are 1,800 passengers on board the QE2, no word on Beatrice yet though.

16.43: We are now around 45 minutes from Port Rashid. I've been told when we arrive the QE2 will be met by a royal party and Dubai Police band. The fireworks come later.

16.32: The casualties are mounting up! I've just been downstairs to check out the swanky cabins on our boat and found a prostrate photographer lying on one of the beds - and he even works for a yachting magazine.

All those months of sea training I was put through at Arabian Business are really paying off.

16.20: We are now just cruising in alongside the QE2 with the rest of the flotilla.

Things are calming down here on the media boat. The poor guy that threw up has cleaned his shoes off and the deck hands have cleared up the rest of the mess.

There are some very rowdy yachts around us though - think I've found out where those 70,000 bottles of champagne have disappeared to.

16.17: Have just been told we will not be allowed on board the QE2 - very disappointed.

16.13: The A380 has just made another pass overhead - think it might be lost.

16.10: Trying to find out whether Beatrice Muller is on board the QE2. The 89-year-old from New Jersey has been living on the ship for the past 14 years, paying around 3,500 pounds ($5,362) a month for the privilege.

16.06: At last, someone has thrown up on deck - think it's one of the reporters from Gulf News, but don't quote me on that!

16.05: Another odd fact I've just overheard - in 2001 the QE2 sailed into Lisbon with a 19-metre long finback whale impaled on her bow. Look out Sammy the whale shark, here we come!

16.00: We are now just 200 metres from the QE2 as she makes her way towards Port Rashid. People are waving from the QE2 - there are hundreds of Union Jack flags on display.

15.55: There are 65 people on board the VIP boat. The guests include members of the royal family, but unfortunately no film stars!

15.52: The water is now getting very choppy. A few people are looking a bit queezy. Hope it's not the food!

In 1995, Southampton officials criticised food hygiene on board, threatening legal action after inspecting the ship's Queen's Grill.

15.50: We are almost alongside the QE2. The old girl looks fantastic for 40! She looks majestic.

The A380 has just flown overhead and is coming back around for another pass.

There are dozens of small vessels dotted all around. The next boat over is the VIP boat - I’ll try and find out if there are any celebs on board.

15.40: Spoke briefly to the project director on Palm Jumeirah, Johann Schumacher, about what Nakheel has in store for the QE2.

Schumacher said the refit would take two to three years, but would be dependent on the condition of the ship.

As for the funnel, Schumacher confirmed rumours Nakheel does plan to cut it off.

He said one of the plans for the funnel was to make it the centrepiece at the entry to the QE2 precinct to be built on the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah.

15.35: I overheard from someone that in excess of 70,000 bottles of champagne are drunk every year on average on the QE2 - but we're not getting any!

15.30: I've just spotted the QE2 in the distance with smoke billowing from her funnel. She is surrounded by small yachts and an enormous A380 flying overhead!

15.20: We are continuing to make our way out towards the flotilla that will meet the QE2 upon its arrival in Dubai.

We can now see a few small yachts out of the cabin windows and in the distance behind us is the Burj Al Arab.

There is still an air of excitement and anticipation on board. The water has begun to get a bit choppy and the boat is rocking around a bit - not good for those of us without sea legs!

14.30: We have just set off from the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Mina Seyahi Dubai to greet the QE2 upon its arrival in Dubai. The atmosphere is electric.

Myself and a large proportion of the media are on board the Dubai Magic, a 140-foot splendid white motor sailing yacht, enjoying some snacks and beverages as we make our way out to join a flotilla of more than 60 vessels that will great the QE2.

There is not a cloud in the sky - perfect weather for the occasion.

(Picture by AP)

DUBAI AND THE END OF THE QE2

2008-11-26T12:53:00.004-05:00

The BBC reports about the QE2 arrival to Dubai:

The QE2 has arrived in its new home of Dubai where the ship will be turned into a floating hotel.

A flotilla and Airbus A380 superjumbo flypast met the luxury liner - sold for £50m to the United Arab Emirates.

As it docked in Dubai passengers waved from the decks and some hung banners and flags from the side of the ship.

The QE2's last entry into the city in the morning was delayed after it ran aground on the Bramble Bank in the Solent.

AP says that more than 60 naval vessels and private boats, led by a mega-yacht owned by Dubai's ruler, met the 70,000 ton ship in the Persian Gulf on Wednesday.

In the city's Rashid port, the legendary cruise ship was greeted by Dubai Police's marching band and fireworks.

Watch here a BBC video of the arrival.

Picture by Marwan Naamani / AFP/Getty Images.

SOUTHAMPTON NOVEMBER 11, 2008

2008-11-13T03:35:00.003-05:00

Philip Silvey has here a great collection of pictures of the QE2 in her last visit to Southampton.

A VIDEO OF LAST NIGHT FIREWORKS FOR THE QE2

2008-11-12T16:28:00.002-05:00

Watch here a magnificent fireworks, last night in Southampton.

Video by Keith Buddie, and great picture by Dennis.

WHAT A NIGHT FOR QE2 FANS!

2008-11-12T16:21:00.004-05:00

The last view of the Grand Dame of the Seas for the Soutampton QE2 fans.

Pictures by Tim Poultney.

SOUTHAMPTON LAST QE2 FAREWELL

2008-11-12T16:14:00.004-05:00

Great last night pictures by Gillian Moy,

UNHAPPY READERS

2008-11-12T07:42:00.003-05:00

London Times readers are not happy with the final destination of the QE2:

British pride is unfortunately often sold to the highest bidder!!

Maddison, london, england

It's just a boat for Heavan's sake.

Doris, Wigan,

How sad that she will end up so for from home.

R Leasure, Vidor, Texas, USA

I have to agree. It would be better if she were sunk. She is a British ship and should remain a British ship. This is disgraceful.

KDP, Lompoc, CA, USA

British pride sold to the highest bidder. Better that she were sunk.

C. Heathcote, Tonbridge,

RED FACES AND ROYAL FAREWELL

2008-11-12T07:32:00.003-05:00

The Guardian's Mak Tran reports about yesterday's events:

It was hardly the most regal moment in the QE2's glittering career when the luxury ocean liner ran into a sandbank off Southampton yesterday, as it headed for its home port before a final voyage which will see metamorphosise into a floating hotel in Dubai.

Fortunately the embarrassment was fleeting, and the ship docked just 25 minutes late at the port, where the Duke of Edinburgh led the farewell ceremonies.

A Cunard spokesman said the ship had been pulled off the sandbank quite easily. "No one on board has been injured. A lot of people will have been in bed when it happened and not have noticed."

The QE2's final departure from British shores was accompanied by solemnity and fireworks. To mark the 90th anniversary of the end of the first world war, a Tiger Moth plane dropped 1m poppies on the 70,000-tonne liner, which was a hospital ship during the 1982 Falklands war.

After the two-minute silence, Prince Philip met long-serving staff as well as the former captains of HMS Ardent, Antelope and Coventry, ships lost in the Falklands campaign. He also stood on the aft decks of the QE2 to watch a Harrier jet fly-past.

Last night a flotilla accompanied the ship as it left Southampton for its final voyage. Passengers snapped up tickets, with the highest-priced berths going for more than £28,000.

SOUTHAMPTON LAST FIREWORKS FOR THE QE2

2008-11-12T07:23:00.006-05:00

Glorious pictures from last night final sendoff.

OH, DEAR, WHAT A BUMPY SENDOFF!

2008-11-12T07:08:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, at 5:30am the Grand Dame of the Seas had a bumpy weakup when beached Southampton with the 2,700 passengers and crew who had just enjoyed a 12-night Mediterranean cruise.

It seems that force seven winds contributed to her grounding.

But as you know many on board joked that it was her reluctance to go without a fight.

First picture: the early morning drama.

Second picture: the Duke of Edinburgh shocked by a blast from the ship's fog horn as he was leaving after his visit to the QE2 in Southampton docks.

Oh dear!

AN EMIRATES AIRBUS A380 WILL FLYPAST THE QE2 IN HER ARRIVAL TO DUBAI

2008-11-12T07:01:00.003-05:00

Max Kingsley-Jones reports:

A flypast by an Emirates Airbus A380 is planned as part of celebrations to mark the arrival of the Cunard liner Queen Elizabeth 2 at its new home in Dubai later this month.

The QE2 left Southampton, UK, on her last voyage yesterday. She is due to arrive in Dubai after a passage through the Mediterranean and the Suez Canal on 26 November where she will eventually be preserved as an attraction alongside a specially constructed dock at the Palm Jumeirah island

According to Emirates, a major event is planned to celebrate her arrival in Dubai. When she arrives at the Gulf port, she will be greeted by a flotilla of boats and ships led by the world's largest yacht, the Dubai, owned by the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum. Topping off the arrival celebrations will be a flypast by one of Emirates' newly-delivered A380s.

The ceremony echoes that for the RMS Queen Mary off the coast of California 40 years ago as she steamed towards her new home at Long Beach in December 1967. The ship was greeted by a DC-9 flown from the nearby Douglas Aircraft plant, which dropped red and white carnations on her decks.

COMMODORE RONALD WARWICK RETURNS

2008-11-11T11:43:00.003-05:00

Keith Hamilton reports:

Commodore Ronald Warwick, the longest serving master on QE2, is to return as the ship’s captain when she arrives in Dubai. He has been appointed as the “owner’s representative” on board QE2 as she undergoes a multi-million pound conversion into a floating hotel and entertainment centre. Commodore Warwick who is retired, has a unique position in the history of QE2 as it was his father, Commodore William Warwick who was the liner’s first captain in 1969. “My father was closely involved with putting QE2 together and now it seems I shall be involved in the many changes that will be made to the ship,” he said. Following the running aground of QE2 this morning the ship was checked over. It is not thought it will result in any delay to her sailing times this evening when she leaves Southampton for the last time.

Thanks to Amy Blume.

REACTIONS

2008-11-11T08:14:00.004-05:00

Times online readers comment to this embarrassing moment:

"The QE2 is a magnificent old girl who loves life - and she's going to enjoy her facelift in Dubai, ready to attract an entirely new generation of "passengers" who will love her as much as we all did for over 40 years. God Save the Queen!"
Narguesse Stevens, Montaigu-de-Quercy, France.

"The 'obit ' failed to mention her role in the Falklands. Where would we have been without her??"
Chris, Shannon , Ireland.

"It appears that the bridge team (captain and pilot) failed to take account of the prevailing weather conditions. Shame the old girl had to go out like that."
R Bingham, Lauzun, France.

"Its been thrown away like an old doll. The last great Cunarder should have been kept in Southampton as an example of Britians lost maritine heritage. This is illustrative of the political and moral decline of the UK that we don't even recognise our own history we certainty couldn't build one today"
Ian, London.

"She is refusing to leave her home port! Oh dear, poor old girl. She is being sent off to a retirement home and is behaving like any grand old lady would. She stuck her stately heels in and demanded to stay here."
Sue Doughty, Twyford, UK

A BBC VIDEO: THE SOUTHAMPTON FAREWELL TO THE QE2

2008-11-11T07:53:00.003-05:00

Watch here a BBC video about today's ceremonies in Southampton.

In the picture, planes drop 1m poppies on to the Dubai-bound QE2.

Photograph: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

A GREAT HEADLINE

2008-11-11T07:46:00.001-05:00

From the Times online:

Grounded at sea, QE2 says a reluctant farewell to British shores

One of the world's great cruise-liners gets stuck in the Solent at start of grand farewell after years of service

"Passengers aboard the liner, which had just completed a Mediterranean cruise, spoke of their surprise at the grounding – with some claiming that it showed the famous old liner, one of the world's last great transatlantic cruisers, did not want to leave for her new Middle Eastern home.

Pensioner Shirley Newcombe from Durham, who was on her 10th voyage on the QE2, said: “She didn’t want to come in. That’s the opinion of quite a few of us on board. She doesn’t want to go to Dubai and we don’t want her to go.”

THE QE2 RAN AGROUND ON HER LAST DAY IN SOUTHAMPTON

2008-11-11T07:32:00.003-05:00

Matt Dickinson reports today for the British PA:

The QE2 cruise ship ran aground as she came into her home port to make her final call, owner Cunard said today.

The BBC said the vessel touched the bottom at the Brambles sandbank near Calshot, Southampton, with three tugs attached to her stern.

A spokesman for Solent Coastguard said they were alerted to the 70,000-tonne ship being aground at the entrance of Southampton Water at 5.26am today.

Five tugs were sent out to assist her getting off the sandbank, he added, and she was pulled off just before 6.10am.

The spokesman said: "She has been refloated and is under way under her own power and heading back to her berth in Southampton."

He added: "She had only partially gone aground, and the tugs pulled her off."

Thousands of people are flocking to Southampton today to bid a fond farewell to the famous vessel before it leaves on its final voyage.

The Duke of Edinburgh is visiting the ship during her final day in port today, with aerial flypasts and a Remembrance Day ceremony involving the dropping of one million poppies also organised.

The ship was heading back to Southampton from a 15-night Mediterranean cruise, with a full complement of 1,700 passengers and 1,000 crew.

A Cunard spokesman said no-one had been injured during the grounding, and she was making her way back to Southampton after being pulled off.

He added: "No-one on board has been injured. A lot of people will have been in bed when it happened and not have noticed."

Solent coastguard said the winds were blowing from the south west at force seven, or 30mph, at the time of the grounding, with a moderate swell.

Police have urged those wanting to see the ship in port, launched by the Queen on the Clyde in 1967, to arrive early.

Prince Philip will be making his seventh visit to the QE2 which entered service with Cunard in 1969. The Queen made her final visit in June this year.

The Duke will be present for the Remembrance Day ceremony at 11am when a million poppies will be dropped from a Tiger Moth aircraft over the QE2.

After the two-minute silence, Prince Philip will meet QE2 crew members who travelled on the vessel when it was used as a troop ship in the Falklands War in 1982.

The Duke will tour the ship and will later present to the Mayor of Southampton a painting of the QE2 which was unveiled by the Queen during her visit this summer.

Prince Philip will also meet long-serving staff, as well as the former captains of HMS Ardent, Antelope and Coventry - ships that were lost in the Falklands campaign.

The Duke will also watch a flypast by a Harrier jet from the aft decks of QE2.

After the QE2 moves off this evening, she will stop for a time and a pre-recorded message from her master, Captain Ian McNaught, will be broadcast on a specially-erected screen in Southampton's Mayfair Park.

There will then be a firework display and the QE2, with whistle blasting, will move away from Southampton for the last time...

The final voyage to Dubai was sold out almost instantly, with the highest-priced berths going for more than £28,000.

QE2 COMMEMORATIVE BADGES STOLEN

2008-11-08T10:16:00.001-05:00

The Sun in London reports:

Souvenir hunters have stolen dozens of commemorative badges intended for the final crew of the QE2 – and put them up for sale on eBay.

The badges, in the shape of the captain’s gold epaulettes, were commissioned by the ship’s master, Captain Ian McNaught, as a unique gift to the 1,000 crew.

But more than 100 were taken from the package before it was delivered to the ship.

Police were last night investigating the theft.

The badges – which had attracted bids of more than £100 each – have been taken off the eBay website.

POST LAST CROSSING REVIEW (2): DAY ONE

2008-11-06T10:02:00.005-05:00

In the picture, April MacDonell and her husband, Robin McCubbin, arrive to the New York terminal on October 16th.

This elegant Canadian couple posted on YouTube a very gracious slide show of the QE2 Last Crossing that you must watch.

With the right music of Sarah Brightman, Con Te Partiro, Time to Say Goodbye (Solo), this is, says April, "our personal farewell."

A magnificent one!

POST-LAST CROSSING REVIEW: DAY ONE

2008-11-04T15:56:00.002-05:00

As I told you, this is a post-last crossing review with more pictures and videos.

Let's start with this one at the New York terminal.

Yes, there was a sense of history and nostalgia.

The Last Crossing was ready to start.

THE QE2 HERITAGE TRAIL

2008-10-28T11:25:00.005-04:00

More pictures from the QE2 Heritage Trail walking tour with Thomas Quinones as the "solo" cicerone.

In the first picture, Quinones is in front of the Mauretania painting that has meanwhile been returned to Newcastle upon Tyne, and will not go to Dubai.

Pictures by Isabelle Prondzynski and Pia Sosua.

QE2 REAL CHARACTERS: THOMAS QUINONES

2008-10-28T11:01:00.006-04:00

He leads daily Heritage Trail tours around the QE2.

Almost everybody knows him because the walking tour is very popular.

He speaks several languages and this German based in Costa Rica is the most famous QE2 cicerone.

Quinones is always passionate, dramatic, and eloquent.

And a great dancer as you can see him dancing many nights in the Queen Lounge.

Gary Bembridge said in a 2007 post in the excellent All Aboiut Cunard Blog;

Thomas Quinones is the social host who calls everyone 'darling' and rattles off facts like machine gun fire. He has worked for Cunard for over 20 years and manages the activities in the public rooms; balls, parties, dances, bingo, auctions etc.

The picture of Pia Sosua captures very well his character.

Deborah did the tour and she told me about his best rhetorical moment:

"I will go to Dubai?

I will stay in Dubai?

...I am NOT sure!" said Quinones in a very dramatic way.

THE LAST CROSSING UNDER THE NEW YORK'S VERRAZANO BRIDGE

2008-10-28T10:43:00.003-04:00

It was on Thursday October 16, 2008.

The QM2 waited and gave preference to the QE2.

The Grand Dame of the Seas went first.

We were outside and from our cabin balcony we saw how the QE2 funnel passed just a few feet under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge that used to had the world's longest suspension span.

Seasonal contractions and expansions of the steel cables cause the double-decked roadway to be 12 feet lower in the summer than in the winter.

The bridge was named after Giovanni da Verrazano, who, in 1524, was the first European explorer to sail into New York Harbor.

A great picture by D.James Gal.

GREAT PICTURES OF THE QE2 ARRIVAL TO SOUTHAMPTON

2008-10-25T06:18:00.007-04:00

Andy Fitzsimmons did what good QE2 fans do: wait for her early in the morning and catch the arrival of the Gran Dame of the Seas to Southampton after her Last Atlantic Crossing.

So this Wednesday October 22, he got up at 5am.

I actualy managed, he says, to arrive in good time to await QE2's arrival. With an air temperature of around 4C, it was very cold standing around but worth every minute.

You can see more great pictures in his Flickr gallery.

THE QE2 IS IN BILBAO FOR THE LAST TIME

2008-10-24T09:55:00.002-04:00

ANY PICTURES, VIDEOS OR BLOG POSTS ABOUT THE LAST CROSSING?

2008-10-24T07:35:00.006-04:00

I am going to start a second round of posts about the QE2 Last Crossing with new pictures, videos and links to other blogs and websites.

If you have found anything interesting please let me know and I will be more than happy to add these new content in the next few days.

I am looking for comments of fellow passengers from the QE2 and QM2, in order to have views from both sides.

It was very impressive the hundreds of flash lights from the QM2 when we were leaving New York.

There must be incredible pictures and videos of those moments.

In the picture, the view of the QE2 docking in Southampton from our cabin's TV.

DAY SEVEN: ARRIVAL TO SOUTHAMPTON

2008-10-22T15:34:00.004-04:00

We did it!

At 6:15am this morning we saw from our cabin the early lights of Southampton.

And the QE2 docked without any special sound.

Very smooth.

Very slowly.

The pilots, the landings, and the Cunard agents wete in the dock waiting for us.

We had our last breakfast at the Queens Grill.

We thanked Roslyn and Nick that were our best friends in the restaurant.

Denis was at the front door saying goodbye to all of us.

And at 8:45 the penthouse passengers were escorted to the terminal.

We got our luggage, and a taxi took us to the AVIS office.

The car was ready and we left the QE2 in the harbor.

Tonight she was sailing again, this time to Bilbao, Spain.

We spent a few hours in Salisbury, crossed Bath and just a few minutes ago arrived to our house in St. Davids, Wales.

Peter, that runs an excellent art gallery across the street, knew about our trip.

How was the sailing? were his first words.

A lifetime experience!

DAY SIX: THE TANDEM CROSSING ENDED A FEW MINUTES AGO

2008-10-21T12:09:00.006-04:00

As I said, the QM2 had to speed to arrive as soon as possible to Southampton.

In both ships, all the outside decks were full of passengers taking pictures, videotaping, and screaming in the last minutes of the tandem crossing.

Chase Heilman, a photographer from Missouri (USA) was taping for a podcast with the last horn salutes.

The horns went wild and louder than ever.

Twenty, thirty, forty times?

In the QE2 travels the chief design architect of the QM2, so he was really moved when he saw his ship taking the lead very fast,. heading to Southampton and despairing in a few minutes from our view.

The Captain spoke to us and the QE2 sent a tremendous applause to the QM2.

I am sure that the same happened aboard the QM2 and we will try to find in the next few days pictures, videos and memories of all these final moments.

The weather couldn't be better.

It was sunny and warm.

The perfect Atlantic conditions for the final farewell between the two Cunard Queens.

DAY SIX: GOODBYE TO THE QM2

2008-10-21T07:41:00.003-04:00

The QE2 Captain announced that this afternoon the QM2 will leave us and take the lead in order to arrive Southampton earlier and she is leaving tomorrow for a three-week cruise.

At 4:30pm the QE2 and QM2 horns will say goodbye to each other.

During the day the distance between them is one mile.

At nights, two miles.

But this afternoon during the mutual farewell I am sure that they will be closer.

We will start the disembark tomorrow at 7:00am.

The last day is a very sunny one.

DAY FIVE: MEMORABILIA SIGNING

2008-10-21T07:25:00.005-04:00

Captain Ian McNaught spent today more than one hour outside the library signing QE2 and Cunard memorabilia.

There was a long queue.

But Tam David went early and was one of the first to get the Captain' signatures.

One for his "My notes", a QE2 personal journal of the last crossing.

And another for the "Queen Mary 2: Book of Comparisons", a book that will go to Chiqui Esteban as a little token of appreciation for helping us in this blog.

DAY FIVE: WINDY AND ROCKY

2008-10-20T11:27:00.003-04:00

Today the Atlantic is rocky.

In the "Noon Information", the QE2 Navigation First Officer released some specific data:

Voyage: 818. From New York to Southampton. Date: Monday 20th October 2008.

Latitude: 49, 22, 2 North

Longitude: 025,23,8 West

Distance: 586 Nautical miles

Average speed: 25.5 Knots...

Air Temperature: 52º F (11º C)

Relative Humidity: 56%

Barometer: 1019 millibars...

Wind: North Western

Force 7 (30 Knots)

Sea State: Rough.

DAY FOUR: BLOGGING FROM THE YATCH CLUB

2008-10-20T07:33:00.003-04:00

As I said, blogging from the QE2 it's not easy.

I found that many fellow passengers willing to go wireless they come here to the Yatch Club.

So I do the same.

The view from the back of the QE2 is magnificent.

DAY FOUR: GREAT SUNSET

2008-10-20T07:10:00.004-04:00

These pictures were taken from outside the Yatch Club.

Many other passenger were with photo and video cameras.

It was the first real sunset during the trip.

DAY FOUR: NICE AND WARM WEATHER

2008-10-20T07:06:00.002-04:00

It's a sunny and warm day.

The weather changed as soon as we entered yesterday in the North Atlantic Current or Norh Atlantic Drift, known for its powerful warm ocean current that continues the Gulf Stream northeast wards.

We are on GMT-1 and the Sunset will be at 6.21pm.

The QM2 was very close, tandem with the QE2.

DAY FOUR: THE FUNNEL THAT WILL BE THE FRONT DOOR IN DUBAI

2008-10-20T06:13:00.000-04:00

We had cocktails before lunch at the Funnel Bar.

The picture shows the magnificent funnel that in Dubai will be the front door access for the QE2 hotel.

In his lecture today, Stephen Payne, Chief Naval Architect of Carnival and the designer of the QM2, told us that this is nor the original funnel but a recent one.

DAY FOUR: MORNING TEA

2008-10-19T14:29:00.005-04:00

The Queen Grill serves a fantastic tea.

Orange color as Tam David's shirt.

DAY FOUR: MID-CROSSING DAY

2008-10-19T08:55:00.003-04:00

At 11:45 QE2 time, we were at the middle of the crossing.

As you can imagine this ship is now like a gigantic antique, but In his daily mid-day announcement, Captain Ian McNaught was not happy with recent developments around the QE2.

Two emergency signs and one clock were stolen last night.

This is something that is happening in the last sails of the Grand Dame of the Seas.

Fans of the ships are stealing more than spoons or little cups.

They want very unique souvenirs.

So they are hunting around the ship.

Oh Dear!

Picture by Deborah Withey.

DAY THREE: DEBORAH WITH A GREAT HAT

2008-10-19T08:31:00.002-04:00

Deborah has been photo documenting little design elements from the QE2, like this outside bench with the traditional Canard's logo.

DAY THREE: THE QM2 STILL THERE

2008-10-19T08:30:00.002-04:00

8 year old Tam David and the QM2 that today change sides and was crossing at the left side of the QE2.

Windy but not rough weather, so Tam was able to play outside and swim again next to the Lido.

DAY THREE: TAM DAVID'S BIRTHDAY

2008-10-19T08:29:00.001-04:00

Tam David is now a 8 year old boy.

He got a signed card from the Captain Ian McNaught and two other officers from the QE2.

Later, when he was running in the decks, the Captain spotted him, and Tam David got a personal "Happy Birthday"

And after dinner we found in our cabin a big chocolate cake with these words: "Happy 8th Birthday Tam"

NIGHT TWO: FORMAL NIGHT

2008-10-19T08:26:00.002-04:00

Tonight was the first formal night and Tam David was wearing new clothes that her grandma bought for this trip at the famous Bosco´s department store in downtown Wilkes-Barre, PA.

He was a real gentleman and he was able to shake hands with the QE2 Captain during the reception held at the Queens Room.

DAY TWO: SWIMMING

2008-10-19T08:24:00.003-04:00

Tam David had lunch at the Lido buffet and then he said that wanted to swimming.

At the inside pool?

No, he wanted to swimming at the outside one.

DAY TWO: SWIMMING WITH THE QM2 IN THE BACK

2008-10-18T09:28:00.003-04:00

The Queen Mary 2 was today escorting us from the right side, tomorrow will be in our side of the ship.

He chief designer of the QM2 was today lecturing about the project.

Done in France, the construction of the QM2 was on time and under the budget.

In the picture you can see Tam David in the hot tub with the QM2 tandem the QE2 in the back.

DAY TWO: WINDY SUNRISE OUTSIDE THE CABIN

2008-10-18T09:20:00.003-04:00

Tam David wake up very early to see the sunrise from outside the cabin, so we took one of the blankets and watched the first lights of the day.

It was windy.

NIGHT ONE: A LONG FIRST DAY FOR TAM DAVID

2008-10-18T09:18:00.002-04:00

Tam David went with his British flag around the ship decks and he couldn't end his firs dinner at the Queens Grill.

DAY ONE: THE QM2 ESCORTS THE LAST QE2 CROSSING

2008-10-18T09:15:00.001-04:00

At 18:00 hours, around Battery Park, the QM2 was waiting for us.

The horns were stronger than ever.

And hundreds of flash lights from both liners documented the historical moment.

BLOGGING FROM THE QE2

2008-10-17T12:18:00.002-04:00

It's not easy to blog from this ship.

And not cheap either.

$0.32 per minute with a package.

And it's slow.

So, I will post once every 24 hours except if something special happens.

Weather is fine.

And we are having a great time after last night grand send off from New York City.

The QM2 sails next to us, but giving a few yards of advantage to the QE2 that heads all the time the crossing.

Last night the two ships went together to salute the Statue of Liberty and the QE2 took the lead passing the Verrazano bridge and starting the last crossing.

DAY ONE: LEAVING NEW YORK CITY

2008-10-17T12:08:00.003-04:00

The station for our emergency drill was at the Queens Grill.

We finnish five minutes before the scheduled departure time, but ant the end the last crossing started not at 17:00 hours but 15 minutes later.

Hundreds of British flags.

“God Save the Queen” and other hymns.

Thousands of Pictures taken.

And the last, last QE2 goodbye to New York City.

I will post in Southampton some of the videos from the “bon voyage” ceremonies.

DAY ONE: ABOARD THE QE2

2008-10-17T12:05:00.002-04:00

The first picture from the balcony of our cabin at the Signal deck.

Peter, our Scottish butler, gave us three plastic British flags.

Tam was very happy to see that all the drinks in the room were free.

So he had his first Sprite aboard the QE2.

DAY ONE: EMBARKING

2008-10-17T12:03:00.002-04:00

The NYC terminal was very busy.

But our registration was very smooth and quick.

Yes, the crossing was wold out.

Average age of the passengers (my guess): 60 year old

DAY ONE: BEFORE EMBARKING

2008-10-17T11:58:00.004-04:00

Waiting for our suitcases at Kennedy airport.

We were on time.

New York traffic was intense.

But no rain.

QE2 WOODEN MODEL

2008-10-17T11:28:00.001-04:00

From Delphic Designs, a beautiful QE2 framed replica:

Original blueprints were used to capture the true beauty of the ship in its original and classic steamship configuration.

Size: 22½" x 8½"

$260.00

Availability: Usually ships the next business day.

READY TO GO

2008-10-16T09:58:00.010-04:00

Tam David ready to go.

Pictures from this morning.

Taking the taxi and waiting at the Norfolk airport for our flight to NYC with Delta.

Reading Lemony Snicket.

QE2 FAREWELL TO THE NY STATUE OF LIBERTY

2008-10-16T09:00:00.003-04:00

In a few hours, the QE2 will pass for the last time across the Statue of Liberty.

This is a fantastic picture of the workers constructing the Statue of Liberty circa 1883.

SWAPPING SIDES

2008-10-16T08:36:00.003-04:00

In his blog, Tom, the young printer aboard the QE2 told us that durting the Tandem Crossing "the ships will be next to each other the whole time while swapping sides each day just for fun."

Thanks Tom for the wonderful picture of the QE2 docking in Manhattan.

QE2 WITH THE FIRST LIGHTS IN MANHATTAN'S HARBOR

2008-10-16T07:06:00.005-04:00

The QE2 arrived to New York a few hours ago and now the ship is ready for the disembark.

No rain.

Temperature: 62°F

THE QE2 ARRIVES TO NEW YORK

2008-10-16T06:03:00.009-04:00

First historic pictures from the QE2 Bridge Camera with the Grand Dame of the Seas docking in Manhattan a few minutes ago after her last Westbound Atlantic Crossing.

FROM NORFOLK TO NERW YORK FOR OUR BOARDING DAY

2008-10-16T03:39:00.001-04:00

We are leaving Norfolk, Virginia, this morning going to New York to board what will be QE2’s 806th and final Atlantic crossing.

The last crossing.

The final one!

THE FIRST ARRIVAL OF THE QE2 TO NEW YORK

2008-10-15T21:46:00.000-04:00

A fantastic black and white picture of her arrival to New York.

Tomorrow it will be the last one!

FIVE NIGHTS ABOAD THE QE2 ON A 2001 CROSSING

2008-10-15T16:07:00.001-04:00

A funny summary made by Celeste McCall about her Atlantic Crossing a few years ago:

The QE2 employs 105 kitchen workers, representing 15 to 20 nationalities.

For safety reasons, all are required to speak English.

The ship's five restaurants have 178 waiters/waitresses.

On a typical day, the galley uses 2,560 tea bags, 115 pounds of coffee, 230 gallons of milk, 481 pounds of butter, 90 gallons of ice cream, 97 pounds of mayonnaise and 241 pounds of bananas.

Between New York and Southampton, the QE2's five restaurants crack 50,000 eggs.

Getting more upscale: on a typical crossing, sommeliers pop 1,000 bottles of champagne and waiters dish out 420 pounds of smoked salmon, 580 pounds of lobster and 75 pounds of caviar.

In fact, QE2 is the world's largest consumer of the pricy little fish eggs, and I did my share to uphold that honor.

Each day, bartenders use 2,610 cocktail stirrers, 960 toothpicks, 3,540 paper napkins and 7,850 paper doilies.

And consider this: in 5 days, passengers go through 2,700 rolls of toilet paper.

THE QE2 INTO THE SUNSET

2008-10-15T15:59:00.000-04:00

John Sidebotham from Sidney writes these very sensitive words about the Grand Dame of the Seas:

On the 24th February this year, we were treated once again to the spectacle of two Cunard Queens in the Harbour at the same time. On this occasion it was the new Queen Victoria on her maiden Round the World voyage, and the Queen Elizabeth 2 on her twenty-fifth and last Word Cruise.

The Queen Victoria was berthed at Circular Quay in the heart of the city between the Opera House and the Bridge and the QE2 was at Garden Island Naval Base.

At 6.30pm the Queen Victoria left for Brisbane and the QE2 was towed to the Circular Quay terminal for the last time.

Here she is, moving into the sunset, with her hull just catching the setting sun.

Apart from the subject, what makes this a special photo for me is that this image is as taken with no levelling or cropping necessary.

What is even more amazing is that it was the last picture on the card!

The blood still runs cold at the thought that even one average picture photographed earlier would have been enough to make this picture impossible to take!

PICTURES OF THE GRAND DAME OF THE SEAS IN NEW YORK

2008-10-15T14:29:00.007-04:00

From Flickr and from different times.

New York will see tomorrow for the last time the QE2.

Tomorrow will be the last opportunity to have her pictures around Manhattan.

Share with us your pictures.

TOMORROW'S PLANS FOR THE NEW YORK ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE OF THE QE2 & QM2

2008-10-15T14:18:00.002-04:00

ARRIVAL SCHEDULE

4:45 AM QE2 and Queen Mary 2 sail under Verrazano Narrows Bridge
with a whistle salute signaling QE2's 710th and Final Arrival
in New York

5:30 AM QE2 and Queen Mary 2 sail by the Statue of Liberty

6:00 AM QM2 berths alongside at Brooklyn Cruise Terminal

7:00 AM QE2 berths alongside Pier 90

DEPARTURE SCHEDULE

5:00 PM QE2 and Queen Mary 2 depart berths

5:30 PM FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums at Battery Park City Promenade

6:10 PM QE2 and Queen Mary 2 "Rendezvous" near The Statue of Liberty

TOMORROW'S WEATHER IN NEW YORK: MOSTLY HUMID, LIGHT RAIN AND POSSIBLE STORMS

2008-10-15T10:45:00.004-04:00

Not a very nice weather for tomorrow's QE2 New York Farewell.

Click on the graphic to see it bigger.

Updates here.

SMOOTH SAILING RIGHT NOW

2008-10-15T10:40:00.002-04:00

Calm sea from the QE2 Bridge Camera in her last Transatlantic Tandem Crossing with the QM2.

Last night aboard.

New York is waiting.

Unfortunately, the weather in Manhattan will be a little stormy.

A GREENOCK POSTER FOR THE QE2

2008-10-15T08:57:00.000-04:00

Atonfan has in Flickr this nice recent picture of a Farewell poster for "their" Queen, the Grand Dame of the Seas.

THE QE2 IS RIGHT NOW HERE...

2008-10-15T07:30:00.003-04:00

...in the Atlantic and heading to New York in her last Westbound Tandem Crossing with the QM2.

Less than 24 hours of her arrrival to Manhattan.

This is a live picture from the Bridge Cam of the Queen Elizabeth 2

Live images via satellite, updated here every 60 seconds.

QE2 HORN TESTS

2008-10-14T20:47:00.002-04:00

Watch and hear in this video clip the QE2 horn tests.

MORE QE2 BEST PICTURES

2008-10-14T15:30:00.002-04:00

A great picture by Paul Lew in Sidney (Australia), February 20, 2007.

Click on the picture to see it bigger.

See here more great Paul's pictures.

QE2 IN THE SUNSET

2008-10-14T14:31:00.002-04:00

As the QE2 is doing her last Westbound Crossing, I am sure that the QM2 passengers can see the Grand Dame of the Seas against the sunset with colors like these ones.

Any picture from the crossing?

SOUTHAMPTON'S NOVEMBER 11 FAREWELL TO THE GRAND DAME OF THE SEAS

2008-10-14T14:01:00.002-04:00

This is going to be really BIG.

The BBC reports:

On Tuesday, 11 November QE2 will leave Southampton for the final time.

An enormous send off is planned with a vast amount of people expected to see her off - below is all you need to know to be part of QE2's farewell.

BBC South will broadcast a special one hour programme from 18:30 - 19:30 GMT on BBC One, the programme will also be streamed live on this site where there will be extended coverage including the fireworks until approximately 20:15.

BBC Radio Solent will be broadcasting special QE2 programmes throughout the day.

The Breakfast Show 06:30 - 09:30 GMT will come live from QE2 Terminal and Drivetime 16:00 - 21:00 GMT live from Mayflower Park - listen on 96.1 FM or online.

There'll also be a dedicated travel bulletin service for the duration of the event with news on public transport and the inevitable traffic jams.

Southampton's Mayflower Park off West Quay Road will be the city's vantage point for QE2's departure and fireworks display.

Entry to the park is free, a big screen will feature BBC coverage of the QE2 and the special live one hour QE2 farewell programme from 18:30 - 19:30 GMT.

QE2 will be flying her red "paying off" pennant from her mast to mark the end of her commission - QE2's is particularly impressive as the pennant's length is determined by years of service, one foot for each of her 39 years.

It's bound to be a cold night, so make sure you wrap up warm, take warm drinks and a torch, particularly if you're heading for one of the shoreline vantage points - allow plenty of time to get to your preferred viewing spot and be prepared for delays.

THE QE2 RIGHT NOW IS...

2008-10-14T11:41:00.004-04:00

...sailing in the Atlantic and heading to New York in her last Westbound Tandem Crossing with the QM2.

This is a live picture from the Bridge Cam of the Queen Elizabeth 2

Live images via satellite, updated here every 60 seconds.

WEATHER FORECAST FOR THURSDAY OCTOBER 16 IN NEW YORK

2008-10-14T08:23:00.003-04:00

Click on the graphic to see it bigger.

Get updates here.

QE2 ROUGH CROSSINGS

2008-10-13T21:15:00.003-04:00

Two pictures from 2004 rough crossings aboard the QE2.

SOUTHAMPTON BERTHS FOR THE QUEENS ON OCTOBER 22

2008-10-13T08:34:00.001-04:00

On their arrival to Southampton from New York the QE2 and the QM2 will dock at berths 38/39.

A 1982 CUTAWAY OF THE QE2

2008-10-12T20:32:00.000-04:00

From Roblightbody blog.

WEATHER RIGHT NOW IN THE TANDEM CROSSING

2008-10-12T18:22:00.002-04:00

A QM2 passenger reports about the current weather at the Tandem Crossing:

Some moderate seas now, and QE2 is on our starboard side.

The weather has been great.. with the swells and slightly bumpy ride.

WEATHER PROJECTIONS FOR THE LAST CROSSING

2008-10-12T17:57:00.002-04:00

A weather projection for the Last Crossing New York departure day, October 16.

Good weather in Manhattan.

Click on the map to see it bigger.

GREAT PICTURES FROM THE THE LAST WESTBOUND TANDEM CROSSING

2008-10-12T16:52:00.007-04:00

Ian J. posted today these fantastic pictures of the QE2 and the QM" leaving Southampton in their way to New York.

Yesterday I finished work at 15:30 and we headed off south to see if we could see the QE2 and QM2 both leaving on a trans-Atlantic cruise. They were due to sail at 17:00, so I calculated the Le on Solent would be a good vantage point and buy us some precious minutes to allow for Friday evening traffic. We arrived at Lee on Solent at 17:45 and the ships were just in view.

ANOTHER FANTASTIC ATLANTIC SUNSET ABOARD THE QE2

2008-10-12T16:37:00.002-04:00

The QE2 bridge camera shows another fantastic Atlantic sunset.

The Grand Dame of the Seas is now heading to New York in her last Westbound Atlantic Crossing.

TODAY'S WAVES IN THE ATLANTIC

2008-10-12T10:03:00.002-04:00

These are the waves (in meters) updated at 13:35 of Sunday, 12 Oct 2008 UTC .

THE STEERAGE IN THE OLD STEAMSHIPS

2008-10-12T09:59:00.002-04:00

An old colored postcard with the the happy steerage on a North German Lloyd steamship,

From The Gjenvick-Gjønvik Archives.

SHIP LOCATIONS AROUND THE WORLD

2008-10-12T09:57:00.002-04:00

In this website you cam tracvk the position of hundreds of ships around the world, the weather, winds, etc.

QE2 BEST PICTURES: DOWNING POINT

2008-10-12T09:45:00.001-04:00

The photographer, Simon Johnston, explains:

The QE2 passing Downing Point and leaving Fife waters after her farewell visit to Scotland.

On the far side is Hound Point tanker terminal.

Taken from the 'Secret Garden', Donibristle House, Dalgety Bay.

QE2 FAVORITES FROM FODORS

2008-10-12T08:51:00.002-04:00

Best Place to Use Binoculars: We like a seat at the Sun Deck Bar for an unobstructed view of the horizon.

Best Splurge: A Q-grade stateroom is worth the big bucks to dine in the Queens Grill, where selections include à la carte menu items, caviar is complimentary, and special requests are honored whenever possible.

Our Favorite Spot for a Nightcap: We like the Yacht Club for its proximity to one of the aft decks, where we can see the ship's wake sparkle in the moonlight.

Trivia Tip: You might think someone who witnessed the sinking of an ocean liner from a lifeboat in the North Atlantic would never want to embark on another ship, but Milvina Dean did. Ms. Dean, a Titanic survivor, sailed on Queen Elizabeth 2.

Best Added Value: Parents love the no-charge evening babysitting service as much as their children enjoy the Children's Playroom

QE2 ATLANTIC CROSSING TIPS

2008-10-11T16:16:00.004-04:00

Arrive early, leave late.

This is not a cruise ship, this is an ocean liner.

Boat Drill on first day in port is always sloppy.

Always expect fog and wind.

Sit on the Boat Deck chairs watching the ocean pass by and read a good book.

Remember that she has the largest and most extensive library at sea.

Conversation with fellow ship lovers is a big pastime on the ship.

Don't miss the Afternoon Tea in the Queens Room.

They have Children's Tea, a supper served between 5:30 and 6 p.m. in the Pavilion.

QE2 is one of few ships that has kept the traditional midnight buffet.

White-gloved staff will ply you with tea, scones, sandwiches and pastries while you relax in deep, comfy chairs, entertained by a harpist or small orchestra.

Only the penthouse cabins have balconies; they are also equipped for computer connection and feature butler service.

QE2 has a top speed of 32 knots and a regular cruising speed of 28 knots, which makes it the fastest passenger vessel afloat.

The seas can be stormy, but the QE2 is built for them, and in all but the roughest weather, she acts like a fish taking the swells in easy strides.

The ship has 12 decks, so plenty of stairs to do exercice.

A synagogue is located on deck 3.

NYC to Southampton gives you one hour less sleep time each night.

Do you have any other tips to share?

In the above picture: The bow of QE2 slices through a Force 10 gale off Cape Hatteras on January 4, 1994.

QE2 BEST PICTURES: EDINBURGH

2008-10-11T15:16:00.002-04:00

A fantastic picture from Edinburgh, United Kingdom, on October 7, 2008.

The Queen Elizabeth 2 sails away from the Fourth Rail Bridge on her farewell tour of the U.K.

Photograph by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

LAST QE2 VISIT TO COBH: A GREAT BLACK AND WHITE PICTURE

2008-10-11T15:11:00.002-04:00

The funnel of the Queen Elizabeth 2 looms over Cobh (Ireland) as seen from near the Commodore Hotel.

QE2 SUNSET IN THE ATLANTIC

2008-10-11T14:31:00.003-04:00

Right now, crossing the Atlantic, heading to New York.

What a great sunset!

A picture from the Bridge Camera of the Queen Elizabeth 2

Live images via satellite, updated every 60 seconds.

MORE QE2 AUCTIONS: A LAPEL PIN

2008-10-11T10:33:00.005-04:00

From a seller on eBay:

To say "Bon Voyage" to the QE2 I created a lapel pin to commemorate this maritime event.

Each jewelry quality cloisonne pin is 2" x 1" with a silver finish.

Current bid: US $10.00

End time: Oct-15-08 19:54:15 PDT (4 days 12 hours)

Shipping costs: US $2.00

Item location:Tacoma, Washington, United States

Quantity: 10 available

QE2 ACUCTIONS

2008-10-11T10:23:00.004-04:00

From eBay:

This is an auction for a waterline 1:1250 scale metal model of the famous 1967 British passenger liner RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 (70,327 tons, 963' long), of the Cunard Line.

The manufacturer is Mercator, catalog number M921.

The model depicts the QE2 as she appeared in 1982 after her refit and return from the Falklands War, with the traditional Cunard red funnel.

The model is a little under 9 inches in length.

This model is in perfect condition, I'd describe it as mint or excellent, with no obvious missing pieces or bent masts.

There is no dust accumulation whatsoever, as it was only displayed under glass.

Please note that the model does not come in the original box.

Instead, it is securely packed in a sturdy cardboard box, affixed with double-sided tape and thread, and will be sealed in a second box with ample cushioning at the conclusion of the auction.

No shipping outside the U.S.

Current bid: $24.99 USA

End time: Oct-14-08 18:31:12 PDT (3 days 11 hours)

CUNARD'S IVERNIS & SAXONIA 3RD CLASS STATEROOMS

2008-10-11T09:52:00.008-04:00

A 4 berth stateroom for steerage passengers (3rd class) and a 2 berth stateroom for steerage (3rd class) for passengers on the Cunard Line steamships Saxonia and Ivernia.

From The Gjenvick-Gjønvik Archives.

THE AQUITANIA 3RD CLASS FACILITIES

2008-10-11T09:48:00.005-04:00

The Cunard Line steamship Aquitania 3rd class accommodation seen on a multiview postcard.

From The Gjenvick-Gjønvik Archives.

A QE2 SKETCH

2008-10-10T20:21:00.003-04:00

"See you QE2!" is a very nice sketch by Ghostschool, a designer from Gourock, Scotland, working for the BBC.

QE2 FINAL TRIP

2008-10-10T20:14:00.002-04:00

Watch here a BBC video about the QE2 final trip.

THE LAST QE2 WESTBOUND CROSSING IS ON

2008-10-10T13:51:00.003-04:00

Watch here the position from the QE2 bridge camera, updated every 60 seconds.

These are live images via satellite.

The QE2 tandem with the QM2 left a few minutes ago Southampton.

They will arrive to New York early in the morning of next Thursday October 16.

In you are in the crossing we want to hear from you.

QE2 LEAVING SOUTHAMPTON IN A FEW HOURS

2008-10-10T11:18:00.006-04:00

Watch here the position from the QE2 bridge camera, updated every 60 seconds.

These are live images via satellite.

In a few hour, the QE2 tandem with the QM2 will be leaving Southampton for her last Westbound Crossing to New York.