Long Beach is famous for various sites for recreation and city events. But the most unusual sight of the city is the Queen Mary liner. It was built after the wreck of the famous Titanic. It started sail between America and Great Britain on September 26, 1934. That time, two giant shipbuilding companies were competing with each other: who would get to the United States faster, English Queen Mary, or French Normandie.
On its first voyage across the Atlantic, the liner was outpacing Normandie. But during fog, the captain, keeping in mind the tragedy of the Titanic, ordered to reduce the speed. Then Marie came to America’s shore three hours later than Normandie. A few years later, the liner could reach maximum speed. It overtook Normandie, and the British were rejoicing.
During the Second World War, the liner was re-equipped. It transported the military to Australia. Later, it continued to transport passengers. In all, Marie carried more than two million people across the Atlantic and more than 800 thousand soldiers during the war.
Now, Queen Mary is located off the coast of Long Beach. It is a hotel, museum, and entertainment center. You can stay here overnight, go on a guided tour, and have dinner in a restaurant famous for its luxury. During the tour, visitors can see a captain’s cabin, wheelhouse, and engine room. Also, there is a unique ballroom where balls and weddings are held.
Cabins are made in the British style with American decorations. The owners of the liner tried to preserve its original look. You can stay only in the first-class and exclusive cabins. The second and third classes are not available because the owners create a luxurious and solemn look of the liner.