RMS Queen Mary
The 'Grey Ghost' served as a troopship where 16,000 deaths occurred. Now a hotel, guests encounter drowned sailors, a murdered woman in white, and children who never left the swimming pool.
The RMS Queen Mary, now permanently docked in Long Beach, California, is considered one of the most haunted places in America. Her wartime service and tragic accidents left behind numerous spirits.
The History
According to documented accounts:
The luxury liner was launched in 1936:
- One of the most elegant ships ever built
- Converted to troopship during WWII (“The Grey Ghost”)
- Carried 16,000 troops at a time
- Retired in 1967
- Now a hotel and museum in Long Beach
The Deaths
Numerous deaths occurred aboard:
The Curacoa Disaster: In 1942, the Queen Mary struck and sank HMS Curacoa, killing 338 sailors.
Door 13: A sailor was crushed to death by a watertight door during a drill.
The Engine Room: Several deaths occurred in the machinery spaces.
The Pool: Multiple drownings, including women and children.
The Hauntings
The ship has multiple reported ghosts:
The First Class Pool: Women in 1930s bathing suits are seen. Wet footprints appear. Drowning victims are reported.
The Second Class Pool: Children’s laughter and splashing from the empty pool.
Door 13 (Shaft Alley): John Pedder, crushed by the door, is seen near its location.
Cabin B340: So haunted it was taken off the market. Wake-up calls to an empty room, faucets turning on, bedcovers moving.
The Engine Room: John Henry, a murdered sailor, appears covered in blood.
Common Experiences
Guests and staff report:
- Apparitions in period dress
- Sounds of splashing in empty pools
- Knocking and banging
- Cold spots
- Doors opening and closing
- Voices and screams
- Full-bodied apparitions
Notable Ghosts
Jackie: A young girl who drowned in the second class pool.
John Pedder: The sailor killed by Door 13.
The Woman in White: Seen in the Queen’s Salon.
The Engineer: Phantom workers in the engine room.
Investigations
The Queen Mary has been featured on:
- Ghost Adventures
- Most Haunted
- Ghost Hunters
- Numerous documentaries
It’s one of the most investigated locations in America.
Modern Status
Today the Queen Mary offers:
- Hotel accommodations
- Historic tours
- Paranormal tours and investigations
- The “Diana” ghost tour experience
Cabin B340
The most haunted cabin:
- Removed from booking for years
- Reports of violent paranormal activity
- Recently reopened for “brave” guests
- Experiences include scratching, voices, and apparitions