Dear world. Meet Clive Palmer, controversial Australian businessman and failed politician.
Palmer, 69, is the man behind a bizarre project to build a life-sized replica of The Titanic.
Blue Star Line chairman Palmer announced today that design plans for Titanic ll were being finalised.
“We are very pleased to announce that after unforeseen global delays, we have reengaged with partners to bring the dream of Titanic ll to life. Let the journey begin,’’ Palmer said.
“The government lockdowns sent the cruise industry into a long-term shutdown but shipping is back in full business with passenger numbers now surpassing pre-Covid levels.
“We are getting the best ship-builders, designers and engineers in the world back on deck to build Titanic ll.’’
The bombastic Palmer says the project enjoys the continued support of Finnish-based ship design and marine engineering company Deltamarin.
Deltamarin has undertaken a review of the Titanic II project ensuring the vessel will be compliant with all current safety and construction regulations as well as meeting Blue Star Line’s design criteria, he says.
Other global partners include V.Ships Leisure who will be responsible for project support, building supervision and ship management services; and Swedish marine architecture and interior design company Tillberg Design, whose portfolio includes classic ocean liners Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary 2.
“Blue Star Line will create an authentic Titanic experience, providing passengers with a ship that has the same interiors and cabin layout as the original vessel, while integrating modern safety procedures, navigation methods and 21st-century technology to produce the highest level of luxurious comfort,’’ Palmer said.
“We are bringing in some of the best designers in the world for cruise shipping to make sure nothing is overlooked and we have a specification that is far, far superior than the original Titanic. It will be the ship of love and the ultimate in style and luxury.
“The essence of this venture is to offer passengers an unparalleled journey back in time, immersing them fully in the opulence and splendour of life aboard the original Titanic, thus bridging a century with a voyage of unparalleled elegance.’’
The ship will follow the original - and disastrous - journey, carrying passengers from Southampton to New York, but she will also circumnavigate the globe, "inspiring and enchanting people while attracting unrivalled attention, intrigue and mystery in every port she visits".
Titanic ll will weigh approximately 56,000t, comprise nine decks and will be designed to recreate the grandeurs of its namesake. The vessel will have an overall length of 269m and a width of 32.2m. It will feature 835 cabins including 383 1st class, 201 2nd class and 251 3rd class rooms, catering for up to 2,435 passengers.
The new ship will feature modern technology and the latest navigation and safety systems.
Titanic II will be powered by a diesel engine and will feature four smoke stacks like the coal-powered Titanic.
“In 1912 the Titanic was the ship of dreams. For over a century Titanic’s legend has been powered by mystery, intrigue and respect for all she stood for,’’ Palmer said.
Given his track record, a lot of people are betting it won’t happen. Like many of his plans.
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