After almost 40 years on the ocean waves, the QE2 was leaving Southampton for the last time today.

And among those on board for the historic voyage was 86-year-old Wolverhampton woman Betty Bowers, who fell in love with the great ship when she first saw it two decades ago.

Mrs Bowers, of Tettenhall Wood, first set sail on the liner following the death of her husband William in 2004, travelling to the Caribbean, Canaries and Mediterranean.

The retired dressmaker, who does not have any children, was setting off for Dubai today where the famous Cunard liner will be permanently docked and transformed into a five-star floating hotel.

As the 70,327-ton, 963-feet-long ship travels across the world, it will be stopping off at ports in Lisbon, Naples and Gibralter for farewell celebrations.

Mrs Bowers said: “I first saw her while I was visiting my sister in Perth, Australia. I thought she was beautiful and fell in love with her then and there.

“But it wasn’t until after my husband passed away that I took my first trip on board to the Canary Islands.

“Since then I’ve joined the members’ club and have been on seven trips all around the world.”

Mrs Bowers said making the first journey by herself was a little daunting, but the crew made her feel “so welcome”.

“They treat you so well as soon as you step on deck,” she continued. “I would encourage any older person to be that little bit bolder and have adventures while they still can.”

While on board, Mrs Bowers makes the most of the five restaurants, three swimming pools, casino and shops, including a branch of Harrods.

She also puts her dressmaking skills to good use for the many formal evenings.

“You can’t go around dressed in any old fashion,” she said. “You need to make an effort. There’s always a splash of sequins or a little bit of frill. I have so many happy memories of the QE2 and I’m very sad that she will no longer be sailing. I’ve met a great deal of good friends on board.”

Prince Philip was also visiting the QE2, which was launched in 1969, today and observing the two minutes’ Remembrance Day silence at 11am.

Throughout its career, the liner has sailed 5.9 million nautical miles and carried more than 2.5 million passengers. Mrs Bowers added: “She is such an important part of our history and I will miss her a great deal.”