Iconic cruise ship Queen Elizabeth II transforms into a floating hotel

Iconic cruise ship Queen Elizabeth II (QE2) is undergoing a major transformation into an epic floating hotel – and will be opening its doors to the Emiratis tomorrow. It spent more than 40 years at sea and arrived in Dubai’s Port Rashid 10 years ago.

Rooms of this 13-deck hotel ship starts at around Dhs600, with deluxe rooms from Dhs900. The hotel houses 224 rooms altogether.

There will also be 13 dining options on board, and the guests will be able enjoy the Chartroom Bar for a time-capsule experience, or try the original menu at the Queens Grill. The hotel also features a traditional English pub called The Golden Lion, family-friendly The Pavilion, all-day restaurant the Lido, cabaret lounge The Grand Lounge and the Yacht Club. Only five of the restaurants will be opened in the first phase of the launch.

QE2 boasts two spectacular Royal Suites named after the Queen’s mother and grandmother -each suite boasts its own private veranda, conservatory and dining room, as well as a breathtaking bedroom with opulent interiors. However, these aren’t open to everyone for booking – in fact, it’s a ‘book by invitation only’ offer.

The ship hotel also features an interactive museum that charts the QE2’s history on-site, complete with artifacts and reproduced rooms. The ship’s former casino has also been decommissioned and restored.