Stepping Back Into an Era When Galmour Ruled the Seas
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By GERRY and PAMELA BARKER
North Palm Beach Life October, 2019. LONG BEACH_As our cruise ship docked here, you couldn't help but notice groups of people on the top deck with their cameras out, jockeying for a better view. Of course, that was our signal to see what all the excitement was about. Once on the deck, we walked over to the rails and saw why everyone was taking photos: Rigbt beside us was Cunard's fabled Queen Mary, ocean liner, complete with her iconic red smokestacks, an important chapter of maritime history, saved for future generations to admire and visit. Launched in 1934, she made more than 1,000 Transatlantic crossings, serving in both war and peace. Officially retired in 1967, she calls this port home, where she remains both a tourist attraction and hotel. One of our most memorable cruises was crossing the Atlantic on her namesake, Queen Mary 2, so we had to take the opportunity to see the original Queen Mary in person. There are several tour options available, including "The Steam and Steel Tour," where you can walk through the engine room, "The Glory Days," which explores her rich history, "The Cunard Story," a new exhibition, and probably the most popular this time of year -- "Haunted Encounters," which shares "many of the more well-known or infamous stories of the paranormal residents that now occupy the legendary ship." We didn't have enough time to take it all in, or meet some of its famous ghosts, but retracing the steps of so many of the world's rich and famous was a great experience. Take a look for yourself: |
The Queen Mary -- As seen from
the top deck of a cruise ship docked in Long Beach. Photos by North Palm Beach Life |
You can not only tour the ship, but also stay in one of the hotel's staterooms. You might even see one of the ghosts who some say still reside there.
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The Model Gallery features replicas that trace the history of Trans-Atlantic passenger ships dationg from 1840. The workmanship and attention to detail is amazing.
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Pam had to stop and strike a pose by one of her favorite actresses, Audrey Hepburn, just one of the many celebrities to sail on the Queen Mary.
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The Promenade Cafe is one of several dining venues onboard the ship. We enjoyed a delicious lunch here. Other options include Sir Winston's Restaurant, the Chelsea Chowder House and Bar and the Observation Bar, an art deco masterpiece featured below. |
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The Observation Bar -- a great place to chill.
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Up by the Bridge, this is the Captain's Room, looking just like it was all those years ago. Looks like he's ready to join us for an interview. I'll pour the Scotch, or fix some martinis!
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Bill, one of the Queen Mary tour guides, explains how they operated the ship and the role of the Captain and his officers. Because of the hydralic controls, one man could run the 140-ton rudder that steered the ship.
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Pam is looking for her stateroom -- she's ready to set sail! |
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Take a look at Queen Mary's main dining room -- wow!
The Verandah Grill was one of the most popular dining/entertainment options in Queen Mary's heyday, doubling at night as the Starlight Club.
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Pam tries to contact the Bridge, but no one is answering in the Chart Room. Oh well -- time to say so long for now!
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