The recently announced Titanic reproduction will provide the regal design esthetics of its predecessor while incorporating the energy saving and eco-friendly technologies of a modern, 21st century vessel.
If you haven’t already heard the news, you are in for a shock. In the wake of the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic and just weeks after a memorial cruise set sail to commemorate its journey, Australian billionaire Clive Palmer has announced plans to build an exact replica of the historic vessel.
That’s right, “Titanic II” will be a 21st-century, historically accurate replica of the original Titanic and is set to make its maiden voyage from England to New York in 2016.
Palmer commissioned Chinese company CSC Jinlin Shipyard to build the life-sized and fully functional replica of the White Star Line’s infamous ship. He also enlisted the help of a historical research team in drawing up the plans for the vessel, which is set to have the same dimensions as the original Titanic, mirrored interior woodworking and exact reproductions of the original staterooms in the ships interior.
While Palmer is striving for historical accuracy, the ship will also provide modern amenities to accommodate today’s luxury traveler. Titanic II will have on-board gymnasiums and swimming pools, libraries, high class restaurants and luxury cabins.
The main difference between the original ship and the 21st century remake won’t be visible to the average traveler, however. Titanic II will be powered by diesel fuel rather than coal (the four legendary smoke stacks that make up the famous ship’s profile will be purely decorative). It will also feature a more bulbous bow for greater fuel efficiency and an enlarged rudder and bow thrusters for improved maneuverability.
Palmer also claims that he will use state-of-the-art 21st Century technology and the latest navigation and safety systems in the new ship.
To learn more about Titanic II, read this BBC article.
