A Chinese shipyard has been appointed to complete the refurbishment of former Cunard flagship QE2 into a five-star floating hotel.
The ship will depart from Dubai, where it has been languishing since being sold by Cunard five years ago, and arrive in COSCO Shipyard’s facility in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province for a “thorough revitalisation and makeover” that is due for completion by 2015.
The existing 990 cabins will be converted into 400 suites ranging from 60 to 150 square metres in size.
Other work will see a revamp of the ballroom as well as the refitting of seven restaurants, 10 lounges, a cinema, a maritime museum displaying QE2 memorabilia and a shopping mall.
The future location of QE2 in Asia following the refurbishment has not been disclosed.
Khamis Juma Buamim, chairman of QE2 Holdings, which will oversee the ship’s management as a hotel, said: “No other ship can match the QE2’s prestige, or her legacy. She is an absolute icon of maritime history, one of the best and most powerful ships in the world. Therefore, our decision on a partner was critical.
“We are pleased to be working closely with COSCO Shipyard for the technical repair and refurbishment process, which will be carried out with the utmost respect to the QE2’s heritage and splendour.”
Seven international interior architecture houses have been invited to pitch for the interior design and concept for the QE2’s conversion into an all-suite floating hotel. The results are due to be announced on November 30.
QE2 Holdings president and chief executive Daniel Chui said: “The QE2 offers more than 500,000 square feet of usable space, in a structure roughly equivalent to any five-star hotel.
“The ship’s redevelopment is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for any interior design professional to create what will become one of Asia’s major waterfront tourist attractions.
“The goal for the final design is to preserve the soul of the QE2 — many of the original furnishings and much of the décor will be incorporated — while creating a modern luxury hotel.”