I love a good ghost story, and 57 Ghosts sets the perfect stage for a night of spookiness. The third-class dining hall was beautifully restored for this experience, and then furnished with an eclectic set of oddities and artifacts to make one feel like they are back in an age of séances and sea voyages. Apparitionist Michael Rangel drew me in with his personal stories and recounting of classic ghost stories from The Queen Mary. 

The actual séance was a real treat. Rangel utilized techniques from the 19th and early 20th century to put on an authentic experience. Now, if you go into this “immersive” experience expecting thrills, “boo”-scares, or high-tech theatrics, you are going to be disappointed. This is a subtle experience that has the charms of a bygone era. There is not a show-stopping “wow” moment, but rather a series of interesting techniques to “communicate with the spirits”. There is a showmanship in how each of the segments is crafted and presented to the audience, but it isn’t like what you would find at Shaqtoberfest. 

Ultimately, if you enjoy scary stories in a spooky atmosphere, or if you have an appreciation for the spiritualist movement of the late 19th / early 20th century, this is an interesting way to spend an evening. If you are seeking jump scares or if you want a real ghost hunting experience, then this isn’t the evening out for you. Luckily, The Queen Mary does offer both of those alternative experiences. For jump scares and a more traditional haunt experience, check out Shaqtoberfest. For ghost hunting aboard The Queen Mary, try The Grey Ghost Project experience. There is something for every taste!