The 963ft-long vessel was named Queen Elizabeth 2 was launched on 20 September 1967, christened by HM the Queen. By the end of that day, she was already known as QE2. Fast, smart and sleek, QE2 sailed over 5.6 million miles and carried more than 2.5 million passengers during a magnificent career spanning nearly 40 years, more people further than any ship before her, and remains the longest serving express liner in history. Having sailed both as a liner and as a cruise ship, served in the Falklands conflict and underwent multiple makeovers. She also has one of the most fascinating histories of any vessel and remains one of the best loved and most celebrated. With stories from captains, crew and passengers, unparalleled photographs, Chris Frame and Rachelle Cross bring the majestic QE2 to life in this commemorative tribute.