A time-warp transatlantic experience, there’s nothing like dating your spouse while exploring the legendary vessel of the Queen Mary.
Located at the Queens Highway of Long Beach California, the Queen Mary is a perfect ship to turn back time to the 1930’s.
My husband and I spent 24 hours at the Queen Mary to celebrate my birthday and it was an adventure stepping back in time.
The boat is huge, and I was completely impressed with everything it has to offer. From the reception area, floors and walls, you can feel the history pulsing through the entire ship.
I can really envision seeing the elite guests wearing their flapper dresses as they sip on an old fashioned and smoking long cigarettes.
While I recommend staying longer if you can, it is possible to have a memorable trip in just a short time. Ready for a Charleston Era time warp?
Here’s our experience staying at the Queen Mary!
We checked in to our standard stateroom. It is basically bigger in size than a usual cruise line cabin. Like I said, the history is pulsing through. From the wood paneling, art-deco style and even the tile floor in the restroom, it brings you back to the 30’s that is usually seen only in movies.
Food + Drink
The Queen Mary has a few different dining options. They have Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, The Promenade Café which offers the breakfast buffet, the Observation Bar and Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge.
At the Observation Bar, we had our first cocktail for the day. They have wide array of drink selections and classic cocktails. I had a spicy watermelon margarita and it had a divine heat when it hit my mouth.
For dinner, we had a fine dining experience at Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge. With an elegant atmosphere looking through the windows at the Long Beach marina, this restaurant stands out from the rest.
We had to dine early since we had a concert to go to by 8 in the evening. We were seated promptly, and the table setting was impressive.
Their custom china is gorgeous with their name imprinted on top of the plates. The waiter didn’t rush us and gave us time to review the menu and enjoy our drinks.
The food was delicious and meticulously presented.
My husband and I ended our dinner with a molten lava chocolate cake and we’re ready for our next event to attend.
With exemplary service, exquisite gourmet and wide array of wine selection, this restaurant is one of the most romantic dinner destinations.
Few notes before dining at Sir Winston’s
- It is fine dining and they have a dress code. So, it is expected that guest should wear appropriate attire.
- If you’re planning to wear high heels, be aware that Sir Winston’s is located on the Sports deck at the very top and rear of the boat. You will have to climb many stairs to get there.
- If you want a reservation with a window seat, call a few hours ahead of time.
We started the following day with the breakfast buffet at the Promenade Cafe. They had a wide selection of food and the view from the balcony was absolutely gorgeous. We were seated looking over the city views and the amazing Marina.
Points of Interest
As I mentioned earlier, the ship is huge that it is impossible to explore everything in a day. However, with the limited time we had, we opted to sight-see the most interesting attractions within the boat.
If you are planning to get their Guided Tour, it is available at the Promenade Deck (Level 4). Or you can also do a self-tour and ask for a pamphlet at the Hotel Lobby (Level 3).
Our adventure towards the transatlantic stay was impressive. I was hoping to visit the Princess Diana Royal Exhibition, but we had other things to do and the exhibit didn’t open until 11 in the morning.
There’s so many things to see and learn more about the Queen Mary ocean liner.
We did not have the chance to explore the whole boat. So, we definitely have a reason to come back. Maybe next time, we’ll even bring our little one with us.
