Feb 17, 1987 -- Cunard's Queen Elizabeth 2 is currently undergoing an uprecedented $130-million, six-month enhancement. Cunard describes this refit as one that "will ensure that the world's only Transatlantic superliner and most celebrated ship will sail well into the 21st century."

Today marked the installation of a distinctive reconstructed funnel aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, the next landmark stage after installation of nine diesel engines replacing traditional steam power.

This April, the QE2 will usher in a new era in Transatlantic ocean travel with its diesel electric power plant and innovative, one-of-a-kind shipboard facilities and passenger service enhancement. Teams are working around the clock in Lloyd Werft Shipyard, Bremerhaven, West Germany to ensure that the QE2 is ready for the historic maiden voyage from Southampton to New York on April 29.

UPCOMING KEY DATES IN QE2 ENHANCEMENT:

• Feb. 27 - April 3: Test run of new engine plant at Lloyd Werft Shipyard
• Mid-March: QE2 sea trials in North Sea
• April 25: Redelivery of QE2 to Cunard Line
• April 29: "Maiden Voyage" departure from Southampton, England
• May 4: New York arrival