On October 6, 2017, we climbed aboard The Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA for my company’s 69th Anniversary Dinner. 

This iconic ship has been stationary and in port as a historic hotel and event center since 1967.

Its red and black smokestacks are such a key component to its look and are currently being restored with a new coat of paint and structural stabilization.  

Inside, model ships of the Queen Mary 2 and other historical cruisers from around the world are represented. 

Just outside these windows lies Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach where Mike looks out at.  

A silhouette of this model ship looks almost lifelike as it’s complete with tiny people, lifesavers and several other small integral details. 

24 orange lifeboats still line the ship, but a pigeon has found they make a comfy perch overlooking the Long Beach port.   

Mike and I suspect that the poles that stick up were possibly oars for survivors to row their way to safety. The seats have since been removed. 

On this beautiful +90° day, Mike looks out at some of our favorite spots across the harbor, recalling that we used to be out here often in 2004-2006 when we went to Cal State Long Beach.  

Staring up at the mast in front, we see several nautical flags flying high in the ocean breeze.  

As you can see, I’m pretty excited to be on this floating historical monument! 

-Ad-

The wooden promenade decks still shine up nice with the window light kissing their surface. 

Some components of the Queen Mary are definitely showing signs of her age (since her maiden voyage in 1936) as I get a shot of this peeling lifeboat in the foreground, but for the most part I see improvements happing all around us.

On the shuffleboard deck we see a scary clown facade (probably for the Dark Harbor Halloween event that occurs all month long.) There was music, lasers, fire and long lines all below us last night till about 1 in the morning. 

This preserved radio room was in use until 2007 by amateur radio programming broadcasts. Still so historic looking.  

And this gorgeous bell was displayed on the covered promonade deck.  

All in all, the Queen Mary had it all - a beautiful view, a historic time piece and gorgeous venue for a party, wedding or event. We had a wonderful time at the Company Dinner, a good nights sleep on board and an exciting morning exploring the ship!