Cunard's Newest Ship Takes to Water

Cunard's newest ship, the Queen Elizabeth was floated for the first time in the Italian port city of Trieste, in a ceremony paying homage to the ship's predecessor, the QE2.

The traditional smashing of the bubbly was conducted by Florence "Dennie" Farmer— widow of Willie Farmer, who was the chief engineer on both the QE2 and the original Queen Elizabeth.

Guests can expect a ballroom, several dining rooms, a bowling green and croquet lawn, gym, 830-seat theater, and the famed class and service of the cruise line's two most famous ships.

The ship departs on its maiden voyage on October 12, making a 13-night trip around the Mediterranean.

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