Island set for fleeting QE2 visit

The QE2 has crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times

The world-famous passenger liner QE2 is to visit the Isle of Man as part of a farewell tour of the British Isles.

The vessel will make a brief appearance in Douglas Bay on Friday morning on her way from Cork to Liverpool.

It will be the biggest passenger liner to visit the island's waters and the event is being commemorated in a limited editions set of stamps.

The QE2 will be retired in November to be converted into a hotel in Dubai after more than 40 years in service.

Record-breaker

Her visit follows an invitation from Department of Tourism member Geoff Corkish MHK.

"Such is the esteem in which the vessel is held, not only by the many Manx residents who are past passengers but also the public at large, that we felt the opportunity to bid her a fond farewell should be pursued," he said.

During her 41 years at sea, the 70,000-tonne QE2 has broken records, transported troops and hosted royalty.

She has travelled more than 5.6 million nautical miles, carried more than 2.5 million passengers and crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times.

The QE2 was bought by investment group Dubai World for $100m (£55m) and will arrive at the emirate port on 28 November to be retired.