Titanic 2 to set sail from Southampton in 2022

I assume we are all aware of the tale of the Titanic – the infamous "unsinkable" passenger liner that set sail from Southampton on 10th April 1912. For those who need a history check, unfortunately it sank five days later in the North Atlantic Ocean, after hitting an iceberg at high speed.

The Titanic was the largest ship afloat at the time of her journey – and when the disaster struck, it killed over 1,500 of her passengers.

Despite the tragedy that occurred over 100 years ago, an Australian millionaire, Clive Palmer, has decided to challenge fate and build a "new and improved" replica of the ship – the Titanic 2. The original plans were introduced in 2012, however the project had to be suspended in 2015, when he had some money issues.

But this, the project has been reinstated, and the Titanic 2 is set to sail the original route, departing from Southampton, in 2022. The design of the boat is set to be heavily influenced by the original Titanic, sporting the same cabin layout. It will, however, be equipped with more lifeboats and modern technologies. The Guardian has even reported "passengers will be given period costumes to wear". According to The Business Insider, the project is set to cost a total of $500 million.

Pitching his vision (with a sense of enthused wonderment uncannily like P. T. Barnum from the Greatest Showman), Palmer said: “The ship will follow the original journey, carrying passengers from Southampton to New York, but she will also circumnavigate the globe, inspiring and enchanting people while attracting unrivalled attention, intrigue and mystery in every port she visits.

"Millions have dreamt of sailing on her, seeing her in port and experiencing her unique majesty. Titanic II will be the ship where those dreams come true.”

So, who is the man promising to bring the Titanic back to life? Clive Palmer is an Australian politician and businessman. He was awarded the title of Australian National Treasure in 2012 and according to the Blue Star Line website, he is "one of Australia’s wealthiest and most successful citizens".

Despite only serving one term when elected for the Australian Parliament in 2013 (before disbanding his party), Palmer is once again running for a place in parliament, claiming to be able to "Make Australia great". His wealth is estimated at $3 billion (according to the AFR).

Although the plans for the ship are confirmed, a spokesperson for Blue Star Line has confirmed that a finish date will only be available once talks have begun with the builders.