Queen Elizabeth II. retiring as luxury hotel

After ruling the world for nearly 40 years - and being a symbol of uncomparable, hi-class luxury ever since her maiden voyage in 1969 -, Her Majesty is finally retiring.

Queen Elizabeth II, the 70,000-tonne vessel is now crossing the Atlantic for the last time: she is to be sold to a Dubai World firm, and will float at the coast of Dubai, at Palm Jumeirah as a luxury hotel. As part of the extravagance of the hotel, there will be three, palm shaped islands built around the liner.

"Dubai is a maritime nation and we understand the rich heritage of Queen Elizabeth II" - commented Dubai World chairman, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. "She is coming to a home where she will be cherished" - added Sulayem.

According to BBC, the famous, 963 ft long liner is sold for a stunning 100 million USD, and the hotel will be open for guest sometime in 2009.

Queen Elizabeth 2 - known for being the flagship of the Cunard Line for over three decades -, has crossed the Atlantic more than 800 times, and carried over 2.5 passengers over the past 38 years.