Queensland mining magnate and former senator, Clive Palmer has revived his efforts to construct Titanic II, a reproduction of the tragic ship that sank in 1912, claiming over 2200 lives.
The Titanic II and Clive Palmer
The wealthy ex-senator has been planning the construction of a replica of the renowned vessel for over ten years.
Image from the Tatler
Palmer initially introduced the concept for Titanic II in 2012, followed by another attempt in 2018. Six years later, he has once again revived the project, announcing its re-launch during a press event at the Sydney Opera House, with the maiden voyage scheduled tentatively for mid-2027.
Due to the pandemic and fluctuating passenger demand, the project was last put on hold a couple of years ago.
With the pandemic behind us and cruise ships resuming operations at sea, Palmer, chairman of the Blue Star Line company overseeing the Titanic project, believes the moment is right to resurrect his Titanic dream.
Tenders are currently being sought, aiming to finalise a shipbuilder by year-end to start work in the first quarter of 2025. Palmer anticipates European companies to secure the bids.
During the relaunch, his team shared an eight-minute video showing the ship’s layout and room designs, featuring actors adorned in period attire.
The vessel will measure 269 meters in length and 32.2 meters in width, slightly broader than its predecessor.
It will accommodate 2,345 passengers distributed across nine decks, featuring 835 cabins. Nearly half of these cabins will be designated for first-class passengers.
More on this news update as it develops.
News source: 7news.com.au
