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China building full scale Titanic replica
A Chinese state run energy company is building a full size replica of the ill-fated Titanic ship, complete with a ‘high-tech iceberg collision simulation,’ set to become the centrepiece attraction at a theme park.
In a new twist to disaster tourism, Sichuan-based Qixing Energy Investment Group has started work on the ambitious one billion yuan ($161.3 million) project which is expected to open in 2017.
Although it will be permanently docked on the Qijang River, it will replicate the original ship in every other detail, with opulent period interiors, from carpets to light fittings and luxury cabins.
Guests will also get to sample the original menu served on the fateful voyage in 1912, along with ballroom dancing and entertainment of the era.
An iceberg collision simulation will take place with light and sound effects, to provide ‘a dream-like experience,’ the company said.
It will have the exact dimensions of the original Titanic, measuring 882 feet in length and constructed with 50,000 tons of steel.
"The Titanic was a great ship and we will revive it," group chairman, Su Shaojun, said.
The company even had discussions with designers who worked on the set of the 1997 Hollywood movie ‘Titanic.’
The first 5,000 tickets for an overnight stay on the Titanic replica will go on sale later this month, with prices expected to start at about $480.
Although the announcement has been criticized as ill-timed following the Yangzte River disaster, the company says it has set up a charitable foundation called the Titanic Fund.
A percentage of revenue from the 1,500 visitors a day will go towards helping people affected by maritime disasters around the world.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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