Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh to Bid Farewell to Queen Elizabeth 2

In an event befitting a king, Cunard Line has invited His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh for a farewell visit to Queen Elizabeth 2 in her homeport of Southampton on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 – the ship’s last day in the United Kingdom before leaving on her final voyage at 7:15 p.m. local time. QE2 will depart for Dubai where she will become a first class hotel and entertainment center.

The most famous ship in the world, and for 35 years the flagship of the Cunard fleet, QE2 was launched by Her Majesty The Queen at Clydebank on September 20, 1967 – forty years ago last year. His Royal Highness was also in attendance.

Since then, QE2 has travelled nearly 6 million nautical miles, more than any ship ever; has carried 2.5 million guests; has completed 25 World Cruises; and has crossed the Atlantic 804 times, reports Cunard Lines.

As well as being present at the launch, His Royal Highness has visited QE2 five times since her keel laying: on July 14, 1967 during construction; on May 1, 1969 immediately prior to her maiden voyage; on May 29, 1969 for the Council of Industrial Design Awards; on June 19, 1991 for a Royal Ball in association with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme; and on July 27, 1990 to mark Cunard Line’s 150th anniversary.

“We are delighted and honoured that His Royal Highness has agreed to visit QE2 on her last day in the UK. The Duke of Edinburgh has taken a close interest in the ship over the last forty years, and I am certain this will be a memorable occasion for all involved,” commented Carol Marlow, president and managing director of Cunard.