Independence of the Seas, Sea Princess (II) & Queen Mary 2
Two of the world's largest passenger vessels were in Southampton on the 14th June 2008.  In the red corner we had Cunard's Queen Mary 2, once the biggest in the world.  In the blue corner rival Royal Caribbean's brand new Independence of the Seas, sharing the record-breaking title with her sisters Freedom and Liberty.  Also Sea Princess was tucked away in Mayflower Terminal.
Originally all three were due to sail at 5pm but Indy's time was brought forward fifteen minutes.  Would she pass her liner/cruise ship rival or would Mary spoil the party?  After all, in the previous season, Navigator and others were often listed for 4.45pm and never moved.  Unfortunately I was on Boudicca in Guernsey so it was up to my dad to find out.  Indy cast off just after the allotted time while Sea Princess did likewise just after 5pm.  Then we got what didn't happen the only time Navigator passed - they blasted to each other!  Indy's captain seems to be the least fussy who they blast too.  If this keeps up he deserves a fan club!
Once Indy was out the way, Mary slowly edged away from the dock while Sea Princess continued her way to Pier Head and Indy sailed past the pier towards the open sea.
What a wonderful day and I'm sorry I missed it.  Indy and Mary are in together twice during 2009 so I'm hoping they do it again.  To see photos of Mary sailing on her previous cruise and passing the QE2, click here.
 
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© Kevin Dempsey 14th & Patricia Dempsey 18th June 2008
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