Billionaire Clive Palmer has restarted his efforts to construct a replica of the Titanic-
Australian billionaire Clive Palmer and his company Blue Star Line have announced their renewed intention to construct Titanic II. A replica of the famous ship that tragically sank in 1912.
The billionaire and former Australian parliament member revealed his plans on Thursday, March 13, during a press conference held in Sydney.
According to reports from the Guardian, Palmer unveiled his intentions to acquire a shipyard. And commence construction of the vessel, promising it would be “far, far superior than the original,” beginning early next year.
Palmer has initiated and halted the Titanic II project twice in the past (in 2012 and again in 2018), attributing the delays to the pandemic. However, this time, he reassured the public, stating that he possesses “enough money to build the Titanic 10 times over.”
“So I could do the Titanic. I’m gonna do it,” Palmer declared. “It’s a lot more fun to do the Titanic than it is to sit at home and count my money.”
“All you need to be happy, I’ve found in my life, is to have someone that loves you, somewhere to sleep at night, and enough for a good meal,” Palmer remarked.
“Beyond that, the rest is an illusion – it’s like playing golf,” Palmer added.
Palmer announced that he would issue tenders for the construction of the vessel in June, and he expected to sign contracts by December. According to the billionaire’s estimate, the project would cost between $500 million and $1 billion.
He also disclosed that Deltamarin, a company specializing in ship design and marine engineering headquartered in Finland, is providing support for the project.
Organizers treated journalists at press conference to five-minute video showcasing the envisioned layout of all nine decks of Titanic II. The video highlighted features such as a ballroom, swimming pool, and Turkish baths.
The Titanic II will measure 269 meters (833 feet) in length and 32.2 meters (105 feet) in width, accommodating 2,345 passengers across 835 cabins. First-class passengers will occupy nearly half of the cabins.
Third-class passengers aboard the Titanic II will dine on stew. Mashed potatoes will be served at communal tables in a dining room that evokes the ambiance of the original ship. However, a spokesperson mentioned that alternative meal options will also be provided for passengers who prefer less traditional dining experience.
