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Copyright © 1995-2003 
Linda Coffman

Queen Mary 2 — Follow Her Progress

Issue 5 -- May 2003          Cunard History Showcased Cunard loyalists familiar with the Heritage Trail on board QE2 will be glad to know that the line’s history will also be showcased on board QM2. Entitled “Maritime Quest,” the museum-quality exhibit highlights the rich history of Cunard Line through a series of illustrative panels displayed throughout the vessel. A self-guided audio tour allows passengers to enjoy the exhibit at their own pace. Did you know that Cunard was originally the British & North American Royal Mail Steam Packet Company? Canadian Samuel Cunard founded the company in 1839 principally to carry the Royal Mail between Britain and North America. Over the years Cunard liners have carried lots of prestigious “cargo” including a veritable “who’s who” of royalty, rock stars and the international jetset. In the 1940s Cunard’s Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth also carried a large number of allied troops. Churchill credited the two sister ships as shortening World War II by over a year. The heirs to those legendary Cunard “Queens” will make history on April 25, 2004, when Queen Mary 2 and QE2 will both be docked in the Port of New York together. It will be the first time two “Queens” have been in port together since the 1940s. First Planetarium at Sea The world’s first shipboard planetarium is taking shape on board QM2. A unique public room for a ship, the planetarium will feature high-tech presentations and virtual reality shows highlighting such things as the origins of the universe and the history of the galaxies. There's even a virtual dragon ride through space! Although the facility, named Illuminations, has nearly 500 seats, only 150 prime seats in the center of the room will be used for the planetarium shows. For these presentations, a dome lowers from the ceiling and projectors rise from the floor to complete the transformation. When not in planetarium mode, Illuminations will be used for classical concerts, feature films, theatrical shows and lectures. 360-degree Promenade Deck Did you know that another classic design feature of QM2 is a 360-degree Promenade Deck? Historically, Promenade Decks served as an important social venue aboard transatlantic liners. The spacious teak thoroughfare on board QM2, whose total circumference exceeds one-third of a mile, wraps around the entire vessel. It will be lined with traditional steamer chairs while leaving ample room for guests to stroll. Interior promenades encircling several decks will provide attractive walking venues, as well.

Follow the progress...

• Queen Mary 2, Part 1

• Queen Mary 2, Part 2

• Queen Mary 2, Part 3

• Queen Mary 2, Part 4

• Queen Mary 2, Part 5

• Queen Mary 2, Part 6

• Queen Mary 2, Part 7

• Queen Mary 2, Part 8

• Queen Mary 2, Part 9

• Queen Mary 2, Part 10

• Queen Mary 2, Part 11

• Queen Mary 2, Part 12

Text & images courtesy of Cunard Line & PR Newswire Photo Service

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