After more than 100 years, Belfast-built Titanic is being reborn as the construction of its first life-size replica has began in China on Wednesday.

This is a project of the Star Energy Investment Group as part of its Mediterranean-themed "Romandisea Seven Start International Cultural Tourism Resort." The resort's high-end centerpiece is slated to be finished by the end of 2017.

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In Global News report, Su Shaojun, CEO of Seven Star, said that the project is now costing more than the originally slated figure of 1 billion yuan ($165 million) because of some needed "adjustments." Although he refuse to divulge the new total cost figure, Su emphasized that this project is something China "needs." 

What does the new Titanic offers?

The new Titanic replica will be be part of a larger planned tourism resort that will also include replicas of European castles and a "6D Holiday Experience."

The replica is 269 meters long and 28 meters wide. It will offer a simulation of the original Titanic's iceberg collision and sinking using audio-visual technology that doomed the celebrated "unsinkable" passenger liner in 1912.

More than a museum, this new Titanic ship will allow several hundred people at a time to feel what the vessel was like. It will be based on the original design, including the iconic ballroom. It will also feature a theater and swimming pool for the guests.

While achieving to retain its classic appeal, the new Titanic will also offer more modern conveniences such as first-class cabins with WiFi, according to Wang Weiling, a Deputy General Manager of the Wuchung Shipbuilding Industry Group.

Keel Laying Ceremony

A keel laying ceremony on Wednesday was attended not only by local government and corporate officials but also by former British First Secretary of State, Lord Peter Mandelson. Shower of fireworks followed by the laying of the keel before attendees were whisked off to a global tourism forum in a nearby township.

The Original Titanic

The massive and luxurious Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, after hitting an iceberg in the Atlantic, causing the loss of more than 1,500 lives. It was then adapted into a movie in 1997, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. The film garnered the second highest-grossing film on record (not adjusted for inflation) after "Avatar," bringing in nearly $2.2 billion worldwide.

This world's first life-size Titanic replica is expected to be definitely dynamic for China's tourist industry, as well as bringing prosperity to the economy.

TagsNew titanic, Titanic Replica, china, 1997 Film, highest grossing film