October 9, 2002

1967 Cunard-Long Beach contract

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Exclusive world wide rights to the name Queen Mary are held by the city of Long Beach, according to Joseph Prevratil, tenant who operates the commercial entity. He believes it is his duty to protect these rights on behalf of the city. Long Beach newspapers report that he has "granted" Cunard permission to use the name Queen Mary and is "not even charging them" for this favor.

The contract between Cunard and Long Beach signed in 1967 was simple and direct. With regards to the name, it stated only:

The name "Queen Mary" is attributable to the vessel and so far as concerned Cunard authorises City to continue to use the said name upon the Vessel. Cunard hereby assigns to City all their right, title and interest (if any) in the said name by way of copyright, trade mark, trade name or secondary meaning. Provided nevertheless that Cunard reserve the right to use the said name upon any of their existing or future vessels.

Neither exclusivity nor jurisdiction were expressed or implied and it was uncertain what rights, title or interest Cunard could convey. How can the city expand on presumed rights and delegate enforcement to a mere tenant (who carries this out selectively)?

Exclusive, world wide rights to the name Queen Mary? Has anyone told the British Royal Family?

Diane Rush