At a Glance
- The Queen Mary marks its 90th anniversary on May 27, 2026.
- New experiences include a decade-spanning menu, a re-imagined Embarkation Tour, and a free Community Day.
- The ship’s long-standing heritage is highlighted through historic events and community outreach.
- Why it matters: Visitors can explore the ship’s storied past and participate in celebrations that honor a landmark of maritime history.
The Queen Mary, which began its service in the early 1930s, is preparing to celebrate its 90th anniversary. The ship will host a range of events, from new dining options to free community activities, all designed to honor its legacy and welcome guests.
Historical Roots
The Queen Mary was completed in 1934 after a massive construction effort. It set sail for its inaugural voyage in 1936, a launch that was celebrated with great fanfare. Since 1967, the ship has been a beloved landmark in Long Beach.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1934 | Completion of construction |
| 1936 | First voyage launched |
| 1967 | Relocation to Long Beach |
| 2026 | 90th anniversary of the maiden voyage |
Anniversary Highlights
The 90th anniversary will be marked with several key attractions:
- Dining Through the Decades – a menu featuring dishes from the ship’s early years, debuting at the Chelsea Chowder House.
- Embarkation Tour – a new tour that re-imagines the guest experience aboard the Queen Mary.
- Community Day – a free, official event on May 27, 2026, allowing the public to stroll the ship without admission.
Community Day Details
The Community Day will coincide with the official 90th anniversary. Guests can walk the ship’s decks and explore its historic rooms. No admission is required, making it an accessible celebration for all.
New Dining Experience
The “Dining Through the Decades” menu will showcase classic dishes that have been served aboard the Queen Mary since its early years. The menu is available at the Chelsea Chowder House, offering a taste of the ship’s culinary heritage.
Embarkation Tour
The re-imagined Embarkation Tour provides a fresh perspective on the ship’s layout and history. Tour participants will learn about the ship’s design, the lives of its crew, and the stories of its passengers.
Leadership Perspective
“Celebrating the Queen Mary’s 90th anniversary is about honoring her extraordinary legacy while continuing to create meaningful experiences for today’s guests,” said Steve Caloca, Managing Director of the Queen Mary. “This anniversary year reflects our commitment to preserving her history, unveiling new stories, and welcoming the community aboard to experience why the Queen Mary continues to matter nine decades after she first set sail.”
Upcoming Events
In addition to the anniversary celebrations, the Queen Mary will continue to host its annual events, such as Fourth of July festivities and a New Year’s Eve party. These events add allure to the storied ship and keep it a vibrant part of the Long Beach community.
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fourth of July | July 4, 2026 | Traditional fireworks and celebrations on board |
| New Year’s Eve | December 31, 2026 | A splashy party featuring music and entertainment |
Key Takeaways
- The Queen Mary’s 90th anniversary will feature new dining and tour options.
- Community Day on May 27, 2026 offers free access to the ship.
- The ship’s long history is highlighted through both new experiences and traditional events.
- Leadership emphasizes the importance of preserving the ship’s legacy while engaging the community.
The Queen Mary’s 90th anniversary promises to be a memorable celebration that blends heritage with modern experiences, inviting guests to explore a living piece of maritime history.
