Clive Palmer’s recent speech at the Sydney Opera House in March 2024 unveiled his plans to rebuild the Titanic, an ambition that has seen several starts and stops since its first announcement in 2012. The project, dubbed Titanic II, aims to create a modern replica of the infamous cruise ship, blending historical accuracy in design with state-of-the-art safety, navigation, and technology. Palmer’s vision for Titanic II is to deliver an “authentic Titanic experience” that captures the opulence and splendor of the original ship’s voyage, offering passengers a luxurious journey back in time. This ambition is underscored by a commitment to high standards in design and passenger experience, with the new vessel featuring the same interior and cabin designs as its predecessor but incorporating advanced safety and technological improvements​​.

Palmer’s motivation for resurrecting the Titanic II project appears to be multifaceted. It’s not only a business venture but also a personal challenge and a nod to historical preservation and luxury travel. He mentioned that the project is now more feasible than before due to his increased financial resources and the resurgence of the cruise industry post-pandemic. Palmer expects the construction of the Titanic II to cost between $500 million and $1 billion, indicating the project’s grand scale and his commitment to realizing this dream. Scheduled for a maiden voyage in June 2027, the Titanic II plans to retrace the original route from Southampton, England, to New York, providing an experience steeped in early 20th-century luxury while ensuring passengers’ safety and comfort with modern amenities and technologies​​.

This ambitious project reflects Palmer’s interest in creating a unique and luxurious cruising experience that honours the legacy of the original Titanic while leveraging his substantial wealth to bring a long-held dream to fruition.

Blue Star Line chairman Clive Palmer announced today that design plans for Titanic ll were being finalised.

“We are very pleased to announce that after unforeseen global delays, we have reengaged with partners to bring the dream of Titanic ll to life. Let the journey begin,’’ Mr Palmer said.

Titanic 2 Project Relaunch Press Conference – Opera House 13/03/2024

“The government lockdowns sent the cruise industry into a long-term shutdown but shipping is back in full business with passenger numbers now surpassing pre-COVID levels.

“We are getting the best ship-builders, designers and engineers in the world back on deck to build Titanic ll,’’ Mr Palmer said.

The project enjoys the continued support of world -leading, Finnish-based ship design and marine engineering company Deltamarin.

Deltamarin has undertaken a review of the Titanic II project ensuring the vessel will be compliant with all current safety and construction regulations as well as meeting Blue Star Line’s design criteria.

Other global partners include V.Ships Leisure who will be responsible for project support, building supervision and ship management services; and Swedish marine architecture and interior design company Tillberg Design, whose portfolio includes classic ocean liners Queen Elizabeth 2 and Queen Mary 2.

“Blue Star Line will create an authentic Titanic experience, providing passengers with a ship that has the same interiors and cabin layout as the original vessel, while integrating modern safety procedures, navigation methods and 21st century technology to produce the highest level of luxurious comfort,’’ Mr Palmer said.

“We are bringing in some of the best designers in the world for cruise shipping to make sure nothing is overlooked and we have a specification that is far, far superior than the original Titanic. It will be the ship of love and the ultimate in style and luxury,’’ Mr Palmer said.

“The essence of this venture is to offer passengers an unparalleled journey back in time, immersing them fully in the opulence and splendour of life aboard the original Titanic, thus bridging a century with a voyage of unparalleled elegance,’’ he said.

The ship will follow the original journey, carrying passengers from Southampton to New York, but she will also circumnavigate the globe, inspiring and enchanting people while attracting unrivalled attention, intrigue and mystery in every port she visits.

Titanic ll will weigh approximately 56,000t, comprise nine decks and will be designed to recreate the grandeurs of its namesake. The vessel will have an overall length of 269m and a width of 32.2m. It will feature 835 cabins including 383 1st class, 201 2nd class and 251 3rd class rooms, catering for up to 2,435 passengers.

The new ship will feature modern technology and the latest navigation and safety systems.

Titanic-II will also feature an exact replica of The Bridge as it was in the original ship, which will be the vessel’s navigational control centre designed and configured to modern standards and regulations. It will provide a complete view of the forward and sides of the ship, from where directions and instructions will be communicated to the engine room, as well as other areas across the vessel.

Titanic II will be powered by a diesel engine and will feature four smoke stacks like the coal-powered Titanic.

“In 1912 the Titanic was the ship of dreams. For over a century Titanic’s legend has been powered by mystery, intrigue and respect for all she stood for,’’ Mr Palmer said.

“Titanic ll something that needed to be built. We all know how to make war. We get armies and we fund wars. People know about that. But it is a lot harder to make peace. To make peace you have got to stick with it every day. You progress inch by inch.

“Titanic ll is something that can provide peace. It can be a ship of peace between all countries of the world.

“Millions have dreamt of sailing on her, seeing her in port and experiencing her unique majesty. Titanic ll will be the ship where those dreams come true,’’ Mr Palmer said.