Builder says plans for new Titanic draws interest

16 February 2013 - 17:27 By Sapa-AP
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The Titanic is launched into the River Lagan on May 31 1911 for towing to a fitting-out berth, where her engines, funnels and interiors would be installed. The Titanic was considered unsinkable but foundered in frigid Atlantic waters off Newfoundland after striking an iceberg. About 700 passengers survived, but some 1 500 perished.
The Titanic is launched into the River Lagan on May 31 1911 for towing to a fitting-out berth, where her engines, funnels and interiors would be installed. The Titanic was considered unsinkable but foundered in frigid Atlantic waters off Newfoundland after striking an iceberg. About 700 passengers survived, but some 1 500 perished.
Image: Picture: REUTERS

The Australian billionaire who's building a high-tech replica of the Titanic at a Chinese shipyard has received an "overwhelming" response from people who want to be the first paying passengers.

Representatives for Clive Palmer said Saturday the company has received inquiries from around the world. Half a dozen have even offered $1 million or more to be on the maiden voyage in 2016.

Palmer announced last April that he planned to build Titanic II with the help of state-owned Chinese company CSC Jinling Shipyard. Officials from Palmer's company, Blue Star Line, said they hoped to sign a final contract with the shipbuilder soon.

The Titanic was the world's largest and most luxurious ocean liner when it hit an iceberg in the North Atlantic and sank on April 15, 1912.

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