New floating hotel Queen Elizabeth 2 could make 800 rooms available depending on the success of the vessel’s soft launch in Dubai and its structure.
A total of 224 rooms are currently available to be booked either directly online or through the trade, but QE2’s director of marketing Katie King believes that number could rise.
The ship turned into a hotel and is docked permanently in Mina Rashid, Dubai’s maritime district and is open as a hotel, dining, heritage and events destination.
King said: “There is huge capacity for a lot more [rooms].
“There are 13 decks in total, seven of which are in use, four have rooms, but we have three more decks that we will open but not in the immediate future.
“The hotel has the capacity to grow to 800 rooms, but those details depend on the [ship] structure.”
British, Arab and Indian expats have shown the most interest in the iconic 51-year-old vessel since its soft launch as a hotel in April, King said.
Sales since April have been split 50-50 so far, between direct and trade.
Explaining the decision to postpone QE2’s official launch, King said: “We anticipated getting everything done.
“However, along the way we got so inspired and there were so many things that we wanted to do [to the ship]. There is huge potential, so we are taking our time.”
Although rooms can be booked on the vessel, King refused to reveal when the official launch ceremony would be but said it would be in the new year.
An onboard app has been developed to allow guests to control temperature and lighting in their rooms, while daily tours are available for £30.
QE2 is currently hosting fam trips and plans to organise more in the new year.
King said: “We generate awareness [of the product] from all angles.”
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