RMS QUEEN MARY
Long Beach, California, United States of America
Explore this gallery featuring a collection of photos from various visits, from 2001 to the present, to the RMS Queen Mary, now permanently moored in Long Beach, California. Launched in 1936 and retired in 1967, this iconic ocean liner served as both a luxury vessel and a wartime troopship during World War II, known for its remarkable speed and capacity. Now transformed into a floating hotel, museum, and event venue, the Queen Mary continues to preserve its storied legacy. This collection highlights the ship’s distinctive art deco design and historical significance, offering a window into both the opulent era of transatlantic travel and its impactful wartime service.
Launched in 1936, the RMS Queen Mary is an iconic ocean liner of the Cunard Line, revered for its elegance and pivotal roles throughout world history. During World War II, it served as a troopship, carrying thousands of soldiers across the Atlantic, and was famed for its speed and camouflage, earning the nickname "Grey Ghost." After the war, it returned to luxury service, captivating passengers with its opulence until it’s retirement in 1967. Today, it stands as a floating hotel and museum in Long Beach, California, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Renowned for its Art Deco style, the Queen Mary features elaborate interiors that include intricate wood paneling, unique murals, and opulent furnishings that exemplify the elegance of the era. The ship’s aesthetic and architectural details remain a major draw, preserving its status as a historical artifact of maritime history.
Following World War II, the Queen Mary resumed transatlantic service alongside her sister ship, the RMS Queen Elizabeth. Together, they dominated the transatlantic passenger route, offering unmatched luxury and speed. The Queen Mary was one of the fastest ships of her time, once holding the prestigious Blue Riband for the fastest Atlantic crossing. However, her record was eventually surpassed by the SS United States in 1952, marking a significant moment in ocean liner history.
Information List
Name: RMS Queen Mary
Operator: Cunard Line
Launched: 1936
Retired: 1967
Current Use: Floating hotel and museum in Long Beach, California
Length: 1,019.4 feet (310.7 meters)
Beam: 118 feet (36 meters)
Draft: 39 feet (12 meters)
Speed: 28.5 knots (52.8 km/h; 32.8 mph)
Tonnage: 81,237 GT
Capacity: 2,139 passengers (as a liner), 5,500 (as a troopship)
Notable Roles: Luxury liner, WWII troopship
Refits/Upgrades:
1940: Converted into a troopship, enhancing its capacity and speed.
1947: Restored to a passenger liner with upgraded amenities and interiors to reflect post-war luxury standards.
1955: Added stabilizers to improve the ship’s stability at sea.
