Cunard has shrugged off the world’s current economic woes by unveiling the first details of its unashamedly luxurious £365 million, 90,000-ton liner Queen Elizabeth, which will enter service in October 2010.

The 964ft vessel aims to put to recreate the halcyon days of cruising, during what the company said was a “more civilized era of travel”.The liner, which was built at the Monfalcone shipyard near Trieste cost £365 million, a total of 16 decks, 12 of which will be used for accommodation for just over 2,000 passengers.

It will boast art deco features similar to those in the original 1930s liner Queen Elizabeth. The focal point will be a vast chandeliered ballroom and nostalgic entertainment including Ivor Novello style piano evenings.

In addition to the bowling green, the games deck will offer passengers the chance to play croquet and paddle tennis.

The Elizabeth is the third new ocean liner to be introduced by Cunard in the past six years, joining Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria.

As a result Cunard will once again have all ‘three Queens’ sailing together.

They were launched during a period when cruising was enjoying a renaissance, with demand for holidays at sea soaring.

“For over 70 years there has been an ‘Elizabeth’ in the fleet,” said Carol Marlow, Cunard’s president and managing director.

“This beautiful modern day celebration of our past - Elizabeths’ will ensure this proud tradition will continue far into this century.”
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