Cunard Line’s new 90,400-ton ship Queen Elizabeth is taking shape in an Italian shipyard prior to entering service next autumn.
The vessel received its name when the letters were welded on to the bow at the Fincantieri shipyard near Trieste.
There has been a Queen Elizabeth in the Cunard fleet for more than 70 years, with this being the company’s third ship to carry the name.
The vessel is due to leave on its maiden voyage from Southampton on October 12, 2010.
Cunard president and managing director Peter Shanks said: “It is an honour for any ship to bear the name Queen Elizabeth, and as I saw the famous name being welded to the bow, I was overcome by the historical significance.
“A milestone such as this only continues to build on the already wide anticipation of the introduction of our new Cunarder.”
Autumn 2010 will further enhance Cunard’s illustrious reputation for exquisite ocean travel with the arrival of our newest liner, Queen Elizabeth. Recalling the rich heritage of the first Cunarder to bear the name, her elegance both echos that legendary age and enhances her luxurious modern allure.
Within Queen Elizabeth’s sleek lines, the lavishness of eras past meets the thrilling future of ocean travel.