15 Photos of Luxury Cruise Liner Queen Elizabeth 2 in the ’60s and ’70s
Wealth Gang / Peter King/Fox Photos/Getty Images / Dennis Oulds/Central Press/Getty Images
Titanic, who? Back in the ’60s and ’70s, the epitome of luxury cruises was embodied by the Queen Elizabeth 2. The majestic ocean liner, which redefined elegance at sea, was known for its sleek design and upscale amenities that were ahead of its time. Offering a world of glitz and glamour to its passengers, from gourmet dining and chic cocktail lounges to lavish staterooms and spa amenities, the QE2 was seen as the ultimate luxury vessel that attracted celebrities, royals, and high society.
Check out these 15 photos depicting the ship’s opulence and its passengers who sought the ultimate in comfort and style while crossing the Atlantic.
1. Mingling in style aboard the liner’s golden era circa 1969.
Michael Stroud/Express/Getty Images
2. Because who doesn’t love walking down a sleek spiral staircase?
Peter King/Fox Photos/Getty Images
3. Bookworms, rejoice. The QE2 came equipped with a full library.
Peter King/Fox Photos/Getty Images
3. Breaking the ice in style, because even luxury liners can handle a little frost.
Harry Benson/Express/Getty Images
4. Where mid-century modern met the high seas, featuring swivel chairs, leafy decor, and a dance floor.
Peter King/Fox Photos/Getty Images
5. Royal approval at the helm: Queen Elizabeth II gracing the bridge of her namesake ship.
Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images
6. A patriotic sendoff for the pride of British cruising.
Sahm Doherty/Getty Images
7. Royal inspection: Queen Elizabeth II takes the helm — well, almost — as the captain offers her a tour of the QE2.
Wood/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
8. Passengers soak in the Manhattan skyline before departing.
Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
9. Who needs a five-star hotel when you can kick your feet up on this floating palace?
Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
10. Wine and dine, with a side of chandeliers and impeccable service.
Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
11. From Champagne flutes to combat boots, the QE2 has seen it all.
Sahm Doherty/Getty Images
12. Soldiers aboard the QE2 catch up on the news on the way to the Falklands.
Sahm Doherty/Getty Images
13. Has anyone figured out why all sea captains have the exact same beard?
Dennis Oulds/Central Press/Getty Images
14. Because even at sea, gourmet meals in the form of lobstah are always on the menu.
In Pictures Ltd./Corbis via Getty Images
15. Aboard the QE2, even arrivals are done in style.
Dennis Oulds/Central Press/Getty Images