The Queen Mary Hotel: 5 Shocking New Updates And Haunting Secrets For 2025
The iconic RMS Queen Mary, permanently docked in Long Beach, California, has re-emerged from years of extensive and crucial renovations, offering a completely fresh experience for guests in 2025. After a period of necessary closure and a multi-million-dollar preservation effort, the historic ocean liner is fully operational as a hotel and tourist attraction, with new sections opening and crucial structural work continuing throughout the year to maintain its legendary status. The latest updates reveal a ship that is not only surviving but thriving, blending its original 1930s Art Deco glamour with modern safety standards, all while its infamous haunted reputation remains the biggest draw.
As of today, December 15, 2025, the Queen Mary is welcoming guests for overnight stays in its classic staterooms and suites, alongside a full schedule of historical and paranormal tours. The ship is no longer a relic of the past but a vibrant, living museum and hotel, managed by Evolution Hospitality, which continues to oversee the meticulous restoration of its decks, artwork, and mechanical systems. Whether you are a history buff, a fine dining enthusiast, or a dedicated ghost hunter, the Queen Mary offers a unique, unforgettable experience on the Southern California coast.
The Queen Mary’s Historic Identity and 2025 Restoration Status
The history of the RMS Queen Mary is as grand as the ship herself. Launched in 1934 and named for Mary of Teck, the wife of King George V, the ship was the epitome of luxury and technological advancement for the Cunard Line. During its service from 1936 to 1967, it completed a staggering 1001 transatlantic crossings, becoming a symbol of the golden age of ocean travel.
During World War II, the liner earned its famous nickname, "The Grey Ghost," for its ability to evade German U-boats while transporting Allied troops, thanks to its speed and a drab coat of paint. Since 1967, it has been permanently berthed in Long Beach, California, serving as a floating hotel and museum.
2025 Preservation and Reopening Milestones
The most significant news for the Queen Mary in the 2020s has been the massive preservation project. Following years of structural decay, the City of Long Beach invested millions to ensure the ship's stability and future. The ship officially reopened its doors for tours and a limited number of hotel rooms in 2023, marking a major turning point.
The restoration efforts are ongoing and highly visible throughout 2025. Key updates include:
- Deck Restorations: Extensive work is being done on the upper decks to replace deteriorated wood and steel, ensuring visitor safety and preserving the ship’s original structure.
- Iconic Stack Repainting: Updates in August 2025 highlighted the repainting of the ship's massive Third Stack, a crucial step in maintaining its striking exterior appearance.
- Artwork Restoration: Meticulous work is underway to restore the ship’s priceless original Art Deco artwork and murals, bringing back the vessel's 1930s opulence.
The city is also preparing the surrounding 43-acre site for the future, with plans that include a new waterfront amphitheater as part of the Olympic Readiness Project, anticipating the influx of visitors for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The Hotel Experience: Staterooms and Fine Dining
Staying aboard the Queen Mary Hotel is an experience unlike any other, offering a choice of classic staterooms and spacious Mini Suites with original portholes and a distinct 1930s charm.
Crucially, the hotel's dining and entertainment venues are now operational, providing a full-service experience that was unavailable during the closure. Guests can once again savor a meal with a view or enjoy a classic cocktail.
Current Dining Entities Open in 2025
The Queen Mary currently offers several distinct dining experiences, catering to all tastes, from casual to fine dining:
- Chelsea Chowder House & Bar: This is the ship's premier fine dining establishment, specializing in exquisite chowders and fresh seafood, providing an intimate atmosphere with breathtaking ocean views.
- Promenade Café: The go-to spot for all-day dining, the Promenade Café offers a hearty breakfast buffet and an à la carte menu featuring classic comfort food in a relaxed, oceanfront setting.
- Midship Marketplace: Perfect for guests on the go, this venue offers convenient grab-and-go meals, including freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
- Observation Bar: While specific renovation timelines for all bars remain fluid, the Observation Bar is a must-visit, renowned for its glamorous setting and classic cocktails—a true piece of the ship's Art Deco heritage.
The Queen Mary’s Most Famous and Chilling Ghosts
No article on the Queen Mary is complete without discussing its reputation as one of the most haunted places in the world. The ship’s dark history as a troopship and the numerous reported deaths on board have cemented its status as a paranormal hotspot. The popular Haunted Encounters Tour allows visitors to explore the most notorious areas.
The ship is said to be home to over 150 spirits, but a few entities are consistently reported and have become legendary:
- John Pedder and Door 13: One of the most tragic stories involves John Pedder, a 17-year-old crewman who was accidentally crushed to death by Door 13 in the Engine Room during a watertight door drill in 1966. Visitors often report seeing his spirit near the area.
- The Lady in White: Perhaps the most famous apparition, The Lady in White is often seen strolling elegantly through the ship’s main lounges and hallways, a symbol of the ship's glamorous past.
- William Eric Stark: The ghost of Senior 2nd Officer William Eric Stark is said to haunt the ship. He died from a mysterious gin mix-up, and his spirit is frequently reported near the officer's quarters.
- Little Jackie Korin: The spirit of a young girl named Jackie Korin reportedly drowned in the Second-Class Pool and is often heard laughing or seen near the now-closed First-Class Swimming Pool area, which is considered a major paranormal vortex.
For those seeking a more intense experience, the ship’s annual Halloween event, Dark Harbor, is confirmed to return in 2025, offering a twisted carnival of new rides and sinister mazes.
The Queen Mary is a true marvel of maritime history, a stunning piece of Art Deco architecture, and a thriving hotel. The ongoing preservation work ensures that this floating legend will continue to welcome guests for generations to come. Whether you are seeking a luxurious stay, a lesson in history, or a genuine ghost encounter, the Queen Mary in Long Beach remains an essential and constantly evolving destination.
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