After a four-year hiatus, The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor makes its spine-tingling return to Long Beach, and it’s bigger and more terrifying than ever.
A staple of Southern California’s Halloween scene for over a decade, Dark Harbor has been missed by thrill-seekers. This year, as the mist settles over the ship and the harbor, it brings with it a wave of horror and excitement that fans have eagerly awaited.
From its debut in 2010 through 2019, Dark Harbor became a must-visit Halloween attraction, drawing locals and visitors alike with its unique combination of ghostly thrills and immersive storytelling. Now, after its long absence, the haunted ship awakens once more, offering those brave enough the chance to explore its eerie decks and sinister surroundings. The 2023 event promises to continue Dark Harbor’s legacy while infusing it with fresh twists, courtesy of Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, a renowned leader in creating top-notch haunted attractions.
The Haunting Returns: What to Expect
This year’s Dark Harbor presents a perfect blend of fan-favorite attractions alongside several all-new features that are sure to leave guests screaming for more. A central focus, as always, is the ship itself. Three terrifying mazes are located on board, each one carefully crafted to transport visitors into the ship’s dark history and supernatural lore.
First up is Lullaby, a chilling reimagining of a previous maze that now offers an entirely fresh path and brand-new sets. This year’s version takes thrill-seekers over a bridge above the boiler room and offers a rare glimpse into the Queen Mary’s historic first-class pool. The experience ends with a finale that promises to be unlike anything fans have seen before.
Next, Feast returns with a gruesome twist—a prequel that reveals the origins of The Butcher, a fearsome character who has long haunted Dark Harbor. This revamped maze includes new scenes that show how The Butcher rose to power in the ship’s kitchen, culminating in a horrifying new finale that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
More news ‘Speak No Evil’ Heads to Digital Platforms>
The third onboard maze, Infirmary, introduces an entirely new storyline featuring a brand-new character: The Surgeon. This terrifying figure brings an unnerving medical theme to the maze, and the introduction of Graceful Gale, an iconic Dark Harbor character, adds another layer of horror. It’s the first time Gale has had her own maze since 2017, and this year, her presence is more frightening than ever.
The Harbor Expands: New Terrors Await
Beyond the ship, the horrors continue in the harbor itself. The twisted carnival overseen by The Ringmaster is back, offering a brand-new maze that draws from past fan favorites. The circus-themed attraction includes funhouse features such as ball pits, but don’t let the playful elements fool you—this maze will leave visitors on edge from start to finish.
Another fresh addition is Breakout, a maze that continues the terrifying saga of Samuel the Savage. After being dragged from stateroom B340 to a seaside jail, Samuel has escaped, and now guests are thrust into a heart-pounding chase through a seaside village. The elaborate set design seamlessly integrates massive, towering structures with the English village already in place, making for an intense and immersive experience. Without giving away too much, let’s just say the ending of Breakout will surprise even the most seasoned Dark Harbor visitors.
Hidden Horrors: The Return of Speakeasies
A fan-favorite element of past Dark Harbor events has been its hidden bars, and this year, they’re back with a twist. Now known as Speakeasies, these secret bars are scattered throughout the event’s various attractions, and their locations are shrouded in mystery. The enigmatic Lady Mabel, a new character introduced this year, may help guide lucky guests to these hidden gems if they consult her for an astrology reading. Rumors suggest that the Speakeasies will shift and evolve over the course of the Halloween season, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as these clandestine spots won’t appear on any map.
A Perfect Blend of Old and New
The 2023 edition of Dark Harbor masterfully balances the best aspects of its storied past with cutting-edge updates and new attractions that will leave horror fans breathless. Whether you’re returning for the nostalgia or coming for the first time, Dark Harbor promises an experience that won’t disappoint.
Running select nights through November 2nd at the historic, and infamously haunted, Queen Mary in Long Beach, Dark Harbor is a must-see event this Halloween season. With tickets already on sale, be sure to secure yours soon as dates and times tend to sell out quickly. Visit www.darkharborhalloween.com for tickets and more information. Don’t miss out on this horrifying, one-of-a-kind event—your nightmares are waiting.
About the author
‘Its Name Was Mormo’ Review: Fear-filled Hearts & Close Encounters
In Mark Bower’s staggering handmade visionary tale, his first movie has drawn the attention of nine international film distributors. A Haunting Tale Mark Bower's handmade visionary performance, "Its Name Was Mormo," is a haunting exploration of fear and the supernatural, capturing audiences with its raw and immersive storytelling which delves into the realm of psyche horror, evoking a sense of dread that lingers long after the camera battery dies. Plot and Atmosphere Set in a desolate, rural town, Its Name Was Mormo > follows the unsettling experiences of a family who encounter an evil entity known as Mormo. The film masterfully builds tension through its eerie landscapes, unsettling silence, and the palpable fear of its characters. Bower’s attention to detail in creating a chilling atmosphere is evident, as each scene is infused with an impending sense of doom. The narrative is […]
Book Review “Heart-Shaped Box” by Joe Hill
Heart-Shaped Box: A Chilling Tale of Haunting, Guilt, and Redemption Synopsis: Joe Hill's debut novel, Heart-Shaped Box, tells the harrowing story of Judas Coyne, an aging heavy metal musician with a dark taste for the macabre. Known for collecting bizarre and morbid items, Judas stumbles upon an online auction selling a ghost trapped in a dead man's suit. In a fit of curiosity and cynicism, he purchases the suit, but what arrives at his doorstep is far more sinister than expected. The suit carries the vengeful spirit of Craddock McDermott, a man with deep, personal ties to Judas' past, and whose sole intent is to destroy him. What follows is a terrifying journey filled with supernatural horror, guilt, and redemption, as Judas battles to survive the haunting and confront the sins of his past. Book Review: Heart-Shaped Box by Joe […]
“Don’t Scream” A Unique Scare Simulator Launching on Steam October 24 – A Must-Play Horror Game
For horror gaming enthusiasts, "Don’t Scream'' is about to become your next adrenaline-pumping experience. Developed by Digital Cybercherries, this terrifying “scare simulator” is set to officially release its 1.0 version on October 24 via Steam, promising a heart-racing and spine-chilling journey through the unknown. If you’re a fan of the horror genre and crave a fresh, intense gameplay mechanic, "Don’t Scream'' should be on your radar this Halloween season. A Found Footage Horror Game Like No Other Inspired by the gritty and unsettling style of 90s found footage,"Don’t Scream'' immerses players in a tense and eerie 18-minute horror experience. Set in a mysterious, nightmarish forest, the game utilizes a microphone calibration system that tracks your reactions in real-time. The core challenge is simple: don’t scream, whimper, jump, or even whisper — or you’ll have to start over. ‘A Quiet Place: The Road […]
Beloved Oogie Boogie Voice Actor Ken Page Passes Away at 70
Ken Page - Iconic performer behind The Nightmare Before Christmas villain leaves a lasting legacy in film, theater, and animation. Ken Page, the beloved actor and singer renowned for his role as Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas, has tragically passed away at the age of 70. His vibrant performances and unforgettable voice brought life to some of the most iconic characters in film, television, and stage, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many fans and fellow performers. Best known for his role as Oogie Boogie, Page first lent his powerful voice to the 1993 animated classic The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton. His portrayal of the villainous yet charismatic Boogie Man became a hallmark of the film, particularly during the character's show-stopping musical number “Oogie Boogie’s Song.” Page’s deep, resonant voice, […]
Review of the Movie “Azrael” A Visually Stunning Thriller That Fails to Captivate
“Azrael” is a movie that falls under the suspense genre, a space dominated by some of the most tense and atmospheric films in recent years. Many of these productions have achieved success due to their ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. However, “Azrael” struggles to reach that level of engagement, and this is precisely the movie’s biggest flaw. While visually interesting, with a style reminiscent of the video game Resident Evil 4, “Azrael” suffers from a series of execution issues that prevent the audience from fully immersing in the story. From the opening minutes of “Azrael,” the actors’ overacting is noticeable. Their exaggerated performances distract rather than engage, creating an emotional barrier between the characters and the audience. Although this overacting improves over time and the actors begin to settle into their roles, the damage is […]
New Innovations in Horror: ‘A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead’ Introduces Microphone Noise Detection
When it comes to horror games, few elements are as essential as sound. This is particularly true in the universe of A Quiet Place, where silence is the key to survival. In the latest update for A Quiet Place. The Road Ahead, developer Stormind Games has not only embraced sound in their gameplay design but has taken it to the next level with an innovative new feature: Microphone Noise Detection. This groundbreaking addition was unveiled in a recent live-action trailer and promises to bring a fresh level of immersion to players. A New Dimension of Immersive Horror The A Quiet Place franchise has always leaned heavily on the tension between silence and sound, with the ever-present threat of alien creatures that hunt anything that makes a noise. The original films portrayed this concept masterfully, and now, Stormind Games is looking […]
Book review of The Darkness Trilogy “Nocturna”
Nocturna, the first installment of the Strain Trilogy, is an exceptional collaboration between acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro and novelist Chuck Hogan. Together, they have crafted a dark, visceral, and gripping tale that masterfully combines horror, science fiction, and vampire mythology. This book offers a narrative that defies the traditional conventions of the vampire genre, blending a near-scientific approach with a backdrop of apocalyptic terror. Del Toro, known for his aesthetic vision and penchant for the macabre (Pan's Labyrinth, The Shape of Water), brings his distinctive style to the story, while Hogan adds a fast-paced and tension-filled narrative. The Plot: An Unexpected Vampire Apocalypse The novel opens with a terrifying mystery: a passenger plane from Berlin lands at New York’s JFK International Airport. What should have been a routine flight quickly turns into a nightmare when it is discovered that […]
Related
Beloved Oogie Boogie Voice Actor Ken Page Passes Away at 70
Ken Page - Iconic performer behind The Nightmare Before Christmas villain leaves a lasting legacy in film, theater, and animation. Ken Page, the beloved actor and singer renowned for his role as Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas, has tragically passed away at the age of 70. His vibrant performances and unforgettable voice brought life to some of the most iconic characters in film, television, and stage, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many fans and fellow performers. Best known for his role as Oogie Boogie, Page first lent his powerful voice to the 1993 animated classic The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton. His portrayal of the villainous yet charismatic Boogie Man became a hallmark of the film, particularly during the character's show-stopping musical number “Oogie Boogie’s Song.” Page’s deep, resonant voice, […]
Blumhouse’s ‘Speak No Evil’ Heads to Digital Platforms This Week After Box Office Success
'Speak No Evil' The chilling remake of the Danish thriller comes home with exclusive bonus content and behind-the-scenes insights Blumhouse Productions, renowned for its contributions to the horror genre, has delivered yet another hit with its latest release, Speak No Evil, a chilling remake of the 2022 Danish thriller Gæsterne. Collaborating with Universal Pictures, the film has garnered significant attention, raking in an impressive $57 million at the global box office since its release. As audiences continue to be captivated by its haunting narrative, fans will be thrilled to know that the film is set to make its digital debut this week, available for home viewing from October 1, 2024. Certified "Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes, Speak No Evil has already made its mark as one of the standout horror films of the year. Directed by James Watkins, the man behind […]
Stranger Things Season 5: The Countdown to the First Trailer Begins
Stranger Things Season 5: The Countdown Begins as Netflix Prepares for an Epic Finale As one of Netflix’s most beloved and critically acclaimed series, Stranger Things has captured the imagination of millions since its debut. Now, as the show approaches its climactic final chapter, fans are eagerly awaiting the next piece of the puzzle: the first trailer for Stranger Things Season 5. The final season is not only expected to deliver thrills and emotional depth but also to bid farewell to the story that has defined a generation of streaming television. A Final Chapter Set to Premiere in 2025 Set for release in 2025, Stranger Things: Season 5 will mark the end of an era for Netflix, closing the book on a series that has redefined binge-watching culture. Since its inception, the show has merged '80s nostalgia with supernatural mystery […]
The Story of Mormo: A Horror Story That Became a Movie (Video)
The Story of Mormo - Where Shadows Speak and Souls Cry As the shadows lengthen and the chill of autumn intensifies, the world prepares for the chilling premiere of Its Name Was Mormo, a shocking new horror film set to release in theaters on November 9. Thanks to the Greek mythological story of Mormo, the production company Mythacraft has created one of the most anticipated horror and suspense films of 2024, in collaboration with the distribution company Uncork’d Entertainment, which will showcase the dark side of Greek mythology. At the heart of this heartbreaking story is Mormo, a demon from Greek mythology who emerges as a tragic figure born from historical nightmares. The legend speaks of a girl cursed with deformities, abandoned by her parents and society, who becomes a being consumed by a burning hatred that drives her to […]
The Life of Chuck – Mike Flanagan’s Latest Film Premieres at Toronto Sparking Critical Acclaim
A poignant exploration of life, death, and memory from the master of horror. Mike Flanagan, the acclaimed filmmaker behind The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, has returned to the big screen with his much-anticipated adaptation of Stephen King's The Life of Chuck. After years of delivering spine-chilling yet deeply emotional narratives through television, Flanagan's re-entry into cinema has been highly anticipated, particularly following the success of his 2019 adaptation of King's Doctor Sleep. This time, Flanagan delves into another King short story, weaving a hauntingly beautiful narrative that has already garnered enthusiastic reactions following its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). A Long-Awaited Return to the Big Screen Though Flanagan has become synonymous with masterful horror on the small screen, his fans have been eager to see him tackle the medium of film once again. […]
“Wolf Creek: Legacy”: Mick Taylor’s Chilling Return in Franchise Reimagining
"Wolf Creek: Legacy" - The Iconic Outback Killer Faces New Prey in a Bold and Terrifying Reboot The infamous Australian slasher franchise "Wolf Creek," created by Greg McLean, is making a triumphant return with a fresh take titled Wolf Creek: Legacy. Known for its visceral depiction of terror in the outback, the franchise has left an indelible mark on the horror genre with two harrowing films and a suspenseful television series. Now, the saga continues, with McLean back at the helm, promising to deliver a reboot that both honors the original and introduces new layers of fear. Plot Details: A New Chapter in the Wolf Creek Saga Wolf Creek: Legacy introduces a spine-chilling story that centers around an American family, whose vacation takes a horrifying turn when they unknowingly venture into the deadly hunting grounds of the notorious Mick Taylor. […]
