Back when Cameron’s “Titanic” first came out, I remember seeing at least two plans to build the “Titanic II” (one was a cover image on Popular Mechanics or Popular Science or some such), but obviously they came to naught. Well, now that “Titanic” has been re-released, right on cue we’ve got yet another plan to rebuild the Titanic:

Titanic II to Be Built by Billionaire Palmer in Chinese Yard

Now, on the one hand I’d love to see a Titanic replica, built to resemble the original as much as possible. The thing was just a beautiful piece of work, far classier than modern cruise ships. Of course, built from better materials, with better technology and more lifeboats… modern engines would probably be a good idea as well.

On the other hand: the superstitious are probably going to avoid this ship like the plague. Whether that is going to deter enough people from spending money, I can’t say, especially if it gets a few successful cruises under its belt.

On the gripping hand: it’s to be built in China. Not exactly the mark of manufacturing quality. Its maiden voyage from England to New York is, according to the article, to be “accompanied by the Chinese navy” in 2016. Beyond the disturbing thought of the Chinese navy sailing into New York harbor… the Titanic II will first have to sail from China to Britain. That’s a bit of a schlep.

Will this $500 million ship get built? Can’t say as I think it’s amazingly likely.