The Queen Mary: Admission, Tours, and Paranormal Experience

If you’re considering spending an hour on the legendary Queen Mary in California, you’re in for a mix of history, architecture, and ghost stories. We haven’t done the tour ourselves, but we’ve looked into what makes this experience a popular choice for visitors—and where it might fall short.

What really draws us in is the expert-guided storytelling—these tours seem to offer more than just a walk around a ship; they promise a peek into both its glamorous past and its spooky legends. Plus, at $40 per person, it’s a fairly accessible way to get a taste of maritime history. That said, some reviews suggest that if you’re expecting heavy paranormal activity, you might find the tour a bit underwhelming. Still, if you love history, architecture, and stories of ghostly residents, this one could definitely be worth your time.

So, who should consider this tour? Ideal if you’re curious about how ships like the Queen Mary played a role during WWII, or if you’re interested in the ship’s art deco interiors and engineering feats. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a spooky twist—just keep in mind that the paranormal aspect might not be front and center for everyone.

Key Points

• Guided tours provide a more detailed and engaging look at the ship’s history and legends.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the experience more enjoyable.
• The ship’s art deco interiors and engineering marvels are highlights, offering plenty to admire.
• Spectacular views and the ship’s architecture make for great photo opportunities.
• Some visitors have found the paranormal claims somewhat misleading or not as intense as expected.
• The tour lasts about an hour, making it a manageable activity without too much time commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Queen Mary Tour

The experience begins with entry into this iconic vessel, where you’ll have the chance to explore the decks and discover its elegant design. If you opt for the guided tour, you’ll be led through hidden corridors and less-visited areas, shedding light on its past as a luxurious ocean liner and its wartime role.

One of the most compelling aspects is learning about the ship’s use during WWII, which adds a layer of historical significance. You’ll also get stories about the infamous ghostly residents, which many find both fascinating and a little spooky. The guides are highlighted for their funny and informative narration—a plus that keeps the atmosphere lively even when discussing battles and legends.

While the tour is only about an hour, it covers quite a bit—from the ship’s engineering feats to its art deco interiors. Expect to see some of the ship’s most beautiful spaces and maybe catch a glimpse of the hidden parts that usually aren’t open to the public.

The Haunted Side of the Queen Mary

Many visitors are curious about the ghost stories tied to the ship. The guides do share tales of ghostly legends and haunted histories, which are what make the tour stand out. However, some reviews, like Gerald’s from Australia, felt the paranormal aspect was a bit of a bait-and-switch, with just a basic introduction instead of the spooky experience they hoped for. Conversely, others, like David from the UK, enjoyed seeing hidden parts of the ship and appreciated the guide’s storytelling.

The Art Deco and Engineering Feel

The interiors of the Queen Mary are often praised for their art deco beauty. We loved the way the ship’s design transports you back in time, with intricate details and luxurious touches. The ship was a marvel of engineering for its era, and walking through its decks is like stepping into a different world, full of stories and craftsmanship.

Tour Logistics and Value

The $40 ticket is quite reasonable considering it includes entry and, if you choose the guided option, a knowledgeable guide. The tour lasts around an hour, making it a good option for those on a tighter schedule or who prefer brief but meaningful experiences. Keep in mind, meals and beverages are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a snack or drink afterward.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Most reviews highlight the guides as a major plus—they’re knowledgeable, funny, and passionate. One reviewer even mentioned that, despite the guide struggling with a cold, he kept talking to keep the tour lively. On the flip side, a few visitors felt that the paranormal stories were somewhat lacking depth or didn’t live up to the hype. And some found the guide’s pace too fast, making it difficult to absorb all the details.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history buff, a fan of art deco architecture, or someone intrigued by haunted tales, you’ll probably find this tour engaging. It’s also good for those looking for a short, meaningful experience that combines storytelling with sightseeing. However, if you’re expecting a full-blown ghost-hunting adventure, you might want to temper expectations, as it’s more about storytelling than paranormal activity.

Practical Details

• Price: $40 per person
• Duration: 1 hour
• Language options: English and Spanish
• Includes: Entry ticket, guided tour (if selected)
• Not included: Meals and beverages
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

The tour is suitable for most visitors who can wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ship’s decks and corridors. It’s a relatively quick activity, perfect if you’re exploring LA or nearby Long Beach and want a taste of maritime history with a side of ghost stories.

Final Thoughts

The Queen Mary tour offers a well-rounded look at one of California’s most iconic ships. Its combination of architectural beauty, historical significance, and ghostly legends creates a compelling experience, especially when led by engaging guides. While the paranormal element might not satisfy everyone expecting a haunting experience, the storytelling and ship’s design more than make up for it.

This tour tends to suit those who appreciate historical context and architecture as much as ghost stories. If you’re okay with a short, one-hour overview and enjoy guided storytelling, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the haunted tales—they’re more folklore than ghost-hunting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally appropriate for most ages, it’s best for older kids who can handle walking and listening to stories about ships’ history and legends.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately one hour, making it a quick but informative activity.

Are guided tours available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tours are offered in both English and Spanish.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants you entry to the Queen Mary and, if you choose the guided option, a guided tour led by an expert.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included in the ticket price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around various decks and corridors.

Is this tour good for paranormal enthusiasts?
If you’re looking for a serious ghost-hunting experience, this might not meet your expectations. It’s more storytelling with a spooky flavor.

What’s the main appeal of the tour?
Most people enjoy learning about the ship’s history, art deco interiors, and hearing ghost stories from knowledgeable guides.

In the end, exploring the Queen Mary with this tour is a solid way to soak in its history and legends without a huge time or price commitment. Whether you’re there for the architecture, the tales, or just to say you’ve been aboard a haunted ship, it’s worth considering, especially if guided storytelling appeals to you.

You can check availability for your dates here: