The Queen Mary in Long Beach has reopened to visitors after being closed down since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and eventual repairs.

The world-famous ship officially began letting people back onboard December 15, with its celebratory free tour dates quickly selling out up until January 15.

“I am thrilled to welcome visitors back onboard the Queen Mary and share the beauty and history of this landmark with our community once again,” said former Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia. “I thank our City staff for their dedication throughout the critical repairs process to ensure the ship’s safety and preservation.”

In June 2021, the city worked with a team of marine engineers to identify critical repairs needed to restore the Queen Mary. Among the repairs were the addition of an emergency generator, the removal of 20 deteriorating life boats that used to hang from the top deck, installing safety-related platforms within, a installing a bilge pump system that moderates the ship’s water levels.

The Long Beach city council approved $2.5 million for repairs after the city regained control of the Queen Mary for the first time in 40 years, with its previous owners not renewing the lease.

Work on the ship began in late February, keeping the ship from opening, even after COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were lifted in California.

In conjunction with the reopening the Queen Mary announced a $150 annual membership program, which includes a year’s worth of general admission, two day passes, presale access and discounts toward the ship’s special events.

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