January 8, 2004
The RMS Queen Mary 2, the largest ocean liner ever built at the time, is officially launched by shipowner Cunard Line and begins its maiden voyage.
Southampton, United Kingdom | Cunard Line
On January 8, 2004, the RMS Queen Mary 2 (QM2) embarked on its maiden voyage, marking a significant milestone in maritime history. As the largest and most luxurious ocean liner ever built at that time, the QM2 was officially launched by the shipowner Cunard Line, establishing a new era of transatlantic travel.
Construction: The QM2 was constructed at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. It took approximately two years to build, with the keel being laid on July 4, 2002, and the ship being floated out on March 21, 2003.
Size and Capacity: At the time of its launch, the QM2 was the largest ocean liner in operation. It measured 1,132 feet in length, 131 feet in width, and possessed a gross tonnage of 148,528. It could accommodate 2,620 passengers in addition to a crew of about 1,200.
Innovations: The QM2 introduced several high-tech features, including advanced navigation systems and a unique maritime design that allowed for more comfortable and efficient sea voyages. Its size and stability also permitted it to operate seamlessly across rough ocean waters.
The maiden voyage commenced from Southampton, England, and spanned across the North Atlantic Ocean to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. This journey upheld Cunard Line’s historical legacy of transatlantic crossings.
The voyage attracted significant media attention, emphasizing the ship’s opulent accommodations, which included world-class dining, lavish staterooms, and an extensive planetarium, the first ever on an ocean liner.
Cunard Line Legacy: The QM2’s introduction reinforced Cunard Line’s continuing prominence in the luxury ocean cruising industry. It succeeded iconic ships such as the original RMS Queen Mary and the RMS Queen Elizabeth.
Engineering Feat: The construction of the QM2 represented a pinnacle of engineering and maritime architecture, revitalizing interest in ocean liners at a time when cruise ships were more commonly favored.
Since its maiden voyage, the Queen Mary 2 has become emblematic of luxurious and prestigious sea travel. It continues to operate under the Cunard Line, providing passengers with the traditional elegance of ocean crossing and maintaining a regular transatlantic service.
The QM2’s successful integration of modern technology with classic ocean liner grace has ensured its place as a distinguished vessel in maritime history, continuing to fascinate and attract travelers from around the globe.
Source: www.cunard.com