SOUTHAMPTON'S 150,000-ton megaliner of the future, Queen Mary 2, has won the race to become the flagship of the 2004 Olympic Games.

Although still under construction, the huge vessel is to play a vital part in the global sporting event due to be staged in Athens next year.

A flotilla of cruise ships, headed by QM2, the biggest, longest, tallest, widest and most expensive passenger liner ever built, is due to carry the name of Southampton, emblazoned on her stern, to the heart of the international games.

With her sumptuous surroundings and vast range of on-board passenger facilities Cunard's QM2 will be the most prestigious address for visitors to the games.

Those staying on board the £538m liner will be able to stroll along wide promenade decks and enjoy luxurious state rooms - among the most lavish suites on any ship and which feature private balconies where guests will be able to look out across the ancient Greek capital.

Prices for staying on board have still to be finalised but there will be a choice of ten restaurants, a shopping complex, health spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, bars, show lounges, a state-of-the-art theatre and even a planetarium.

If visitors to the games want to take the family along they will be able to use QM2's children's centre staffed by British nannies.

Cunard and Athens 2004, the organising committee for the games, have signed the formal contract to berth the 1,310-cabin QM2 in Piraeus, close to the games, between August 12 and August 30 next year.

Peter Shanks, the shipping line's Southampton-based European vice-president, said: "Cunard is delighted to be a part of this historic event in Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games."

QM2 is still being built at the French shipyard of Chantiers de l'Atlantique in Saint Nazaire and is expected to arrive in Southampton for the first time next December before beginning her maiden voyage the following month.

Spyros Caralos, executive director of the Athen's committee, said: "Queen Mary 2 will be the centrepiece in an 11-ship flotilla that will host up to 13,280 visitors."