The Queen Mary

The Queen Mary offers a truly unique historical experience, allowing guests to step back in time aboard a majestic ocean liner. Its signature feature is its role as a floating museum, providing an immersive journey into the golden age of transatlantic travel and its significant wartime history. Guests are consistently captivated by the ship's Art Deco design and the opportunity to explore its many decks and exhibits. This destination is particularly well-suited for history buffs and sightseers eager to delve into the past, as well as couples seeking a romantic and distinctive getaway. Families also find it an engaging and educational adventure. For those embarking on a cruise, the hotel's convenient location next to the terminal is a major advantage. To enhance your stay, consider bringing earplugs due to the ship's thin walls and be prepared for the authentic, non-modern nature of the accommodations.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests find the facilities on board to be a blend of historic charm and practical convenience. The availability of Wi-Fi is appreciated, though some note it could be improved. Parking is readily available, albeit at an additional cost, with some guests mentioning a golf cart service for luggage. The ship offers various shops for souvenirs and essentials. While there isn't a traditional swimming pool, a fitness center is present for guest use. A major draw is the extensive array of tours and exhibits available, often included or discounted for hotel guests, allowing for deep exploration of the ship's history. Guests should be aware that elevators can be small or slow, and while ice machines and vending machines are on board, they may not always be fully functional. The unique portholes in some rooms are a charming feature, and a small game room provides additional entertainment.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is generally positive, with many guests finding their accommodations clean and the beds comfortable. However, some reviews mention minor issues such as dirty carpets or occasional hair in bathrooms, indicating inconsistency. The room condition reflects the ship's age, featuring original woodwork and fixtures, which contributes to a nostalgic atmosphere but also means rooms can appear dated or worn, with limited outlets. A frequently cited concern is the noise levels due to the ship's thin walls, allowing sounds from neighboring rooms and hallways to be easily heard. Temperature control is another common issue, as individual room heating or cooling is often unavailable, leading to rooms being either too warm or too cold; extra blankets or fans are typically provided upon request. Bathrooms are described as having original, often small fixtures, with some noting low water pressure or a lack of grab bars in the deep tubs.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience on board receives mixed but generally favorable reviews. Most guests praise the food quality for dinner and lunch at the various restaurants, including the Promenade Cafe and Chelsea Chowder House, highlighting dishes like French Dip, fish tacos, and clam chowder. The service in these venues is consistently described as excellent and attentive. The Observation Bar is a popular spot for its atmosphere, happy hour, and occasional live music, making it a great place for evening drinks. However, breakfast receives more varied feedback, with some finding the buffet good, while others deem it expensive or of poor quality with slow service. Guests note that food options can be limited, especially for healthier choices or late-night dining, leading some to opt for outside delivery services.

Location & Accessibility
The location of the Queen Mary is a significant advantage, particularly for those embarking on a cruise, as it is conveniently situated right next to the cruise terminal, allowing for an easy walk with luggage. Guests appreciate the harbor views and city views from the ship. While the immediate area around the ship is somewhat isolated, it offers good accessibility to other Long Beach attractions such as Shoreline Village and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Public transportation options, including a free Long Beach Passport bus and a water taxi, provide convenient links to downtown areas. Parking is available on-site, though it is noted to be expensive. Some guests mention that navigating to the ship can be challenging due to traffic and signage, suggesting early arrival.

Staff & Service
The staff at the Queen Mary consistently receives high praise for their exceptional service. Guests frequently describe them as friendly, helpful, welcoming, and attentive, often going above and beyond to ensure a positive stay. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some guests experienced minor delays. Staff are commended for their responsiveness to guest requests, such as providing extra blankets or fans for room temperature issues, and addressing noise concerns. Housekeeping is available, typically every other day or upon request. Bellhops and porters are highlighted for their efficiency in assisting with luggage, including golf cart transfers to the nearby cruise terminal. Overall, the dedication of the staff significantly enhances the guest experience, contributing to the hotel's unique charm.

Additional Information
Beyond its role as a hotel, the Queen Mary offers a rich museum experience, with extensive historical tours and exhibits that delve into its past, including its significant role as the "Grey Ghost" troopship during World War II. Many guests are drawn to the ship's famous haunted reputation, with specific tours dedicated to paranormal encounters. The ship is undergoing ongoing renovations and maintenance to preserve its Art Deco design and historical integrity, though some areas still show their age. Guests should be aware of a resort fee or destination fee that covers certain amenities. The hotel implements quiet hours starting at 10 PM to mitigate noise from the thin walls. The Commodore Club offers additional perks for members, enhancing the stay for loyal guests. The ship also hosts various special events, from weddings to concerts, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.