One of the most famous ships in history, the Titanic, is getting re-born in the form of a full size replica, which will serve as a tourist attraction for residents and visitors of China. The original ship, which hit an iceberg in 1912, causing it to sink, was the subject of the record breaking film, also named the Titanic, in 1997. According to NPR, a replica about 90% of the size of the original was built for the movie, but later sunk after filming was completed.
Before construction started on this soon-to-be tourist attraction, Australian billionaire Clive Palmer was attempting to build a full-scale replica in order to travel and complete the route the original Titanic was attempting to. That project has since been delayed, allowing the China based construction company Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group the chance to complete the first full sized remake. The company hopes to get as close to the original design as possible, even down to the materials. NPR reports that the group does not intend to build every room in the ship, but there will be several interior rooms that visitors will be able to tour.
The new ship is already under construction and is expected to be complete by the end of 2017. The 882 feet (269m) long by 92 feet (28m) wide ship has a budget of $145 million, but already appears to be over budget. Among the interior rooms to receive replicas will be the ballroom, a theater, a pool, and some first-class cabins. This version of the ship has no plans to set sail, however, and it will remain in its permanent location.
The video below, by New China TV, shows some of the work that has already taken place.
