naval ship tours san francisco

7-15 October, 2024

• Center For Humanitarian Assistance
• STEM Center
• Career Fair
• Neighborhood Concert Series
• High School Band Challenge
• Honor Our Fallen Concert
• Humanitarian Assistance Village
• Parade of Ships
• Veterans Art Exhibit
• Visiting Ships & Tours

Conduct During Shipboard Tours

• Boat Safety
• The Center for Humanitarian Assistance
• Bay Area Military History

Date & Time

This event is free. Volunteer at this Event

Come climb aboard the amphibious carriers, cutters, destroyers and cruisers docked at the Embarcadero and get a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of the sailors serving in the U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Join us on the San Francisco waterfront to tour our visiting ships docked at the Port of San Francisco and get a glimpse of the day-to-day lives of the sailors serving in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard.

We have several guides on this site to help you with information about planning your experience at Fleet Week under "Plan Your Trip".

Please Note: These piers are 1.7 miles apart on the waterfront. There will be two ships at each pier.

All ship tours are free of charge.

Tour lines are on a first-come, first-served basis..

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USS John P. Murtha (LPD-26) is the 10th San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship of the United States Navy, and is named in honor of Congressman John Murtha (1932–2010) of Pennsylvania. John P. Murtha is homeported at Naval Base San Diego.

On 9 April 2010, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus  announced that the Navy's 10th  San Antonio -class amphibious transport dock would be named  John P. Murtha (LPD-26).  A former  United States Marine Corps  officer, Murtha was the first  Vietnam War  veteran elected to the  U.S. House of Representatives , in 1974. Murtha served as either chairman or ranking minority member of the  House Defense Appropriations Subcommitteee  from 1989 to 2010.

The contract to build  John P. Murtha  was awarded to  Ingalls Shipbuilding  on 1 April 2011.   John P. Murtha 's  keel was  laid down  on 6 June 2012 at the Ingalls Shipbuilding yard in  Pascagoula, Mississippi .  The ship was launched on 30 October 2014,  christened five months later on 21 March 2015, delivered to the Navy on 13 May 2016, placed in active service on 11 August 2016, and commissioned on 8 October 2016.  The ship was sponsored by Congressman Murtha's daughter, Donna S. Murtha.

USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26)

USS Paul Hamilton (DDG-60) is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the United States Navy currently in service. The ship is named after Paul Hamilton, the third United States Secretary of the Navy.

Constructed at  Bath Iron Works  (BIW) in  Bath, Maine ,  Paul Hamilton  was  commissioned  in  Charleston, South Carolina . The destroyer was transferred to  Pearl Harbor, Hawaii after her commissioning. She is currently homeported in San Diego, California.

In July 2015, she along with the  Royal Navy 's  HMS  Duncan , participated in airstrikes against  ISIL .

In 2019, cargo ship  Bass Strait , belonging to Hong Kong-based  Pacific Basin Shipping Limited , launched a series of drones that surveilled and harassed  Paul Hamilton  in waters off of Southern California.

In honor of the ship's namesake  Paul Hamilton , a South Carolinian who was a Revolutionary War soldier and the 42nd governor of South Carolina, USS Paul Hamilton flies the  Moultrie Flag , a  Revolutionary War  battle flag closely associated with  South Carolina .

USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60)

The public is encouraged to attend tours and interact with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel.

Report any suspicious activity immediately to military or police personnel

• Over 18 years of age must have a valid government-issued ID
• Those 17 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult.
• No large backpacks,  oversized camera bags, or large purses
• No holding areas for personal items -  backpacks, strollers, bicycles, scooters, pets, etc.
• All non-permitted items will not be allowed to remain on or near the pier areas. They will be removed from the pier and may be searched or otherwise disposed of.
• No pre-registration or RSVP is required
• Visitation to all participating vessels is on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Ship tours may not be appropriate for those with disabilities and access and functional needs or certain medical conditions. There are steep ladders (stairways) to climb and uneven surfaces to traverse on board the ship. An alternative experience will be provided on the pier for those who wish to learn more about the ships in Port.
• Open-toe shoes are not recommended. High heels are not permitted.
• Failure to consent to screening and inspection will result in denial of authorization to enter the property.
• All visitors will remain with the tour guide at all times and will not deviate from the dedicated tour route.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to any military or police personnel.

Prohibited Items

All personnel is screened, and all bags are searched before entering the pier.

• Defensive chemicals or sprays, including mace, pepper spray, and aerosol spray cans
• Large backpacks, oversized camera bags, or large purses
• Smoking, dipping, or chewing gum while onboard USN Ships or within 100FT of watch-standers
• Illegal drugs and/or paraphernalia, including marijuana
• Food and drinks, including ice chests and coolers
• Pets ( including service animals )
• Guns, knives, clubs, or weapons of any kind
• Skateboards/bicycles/scooters
• Gang-related clothing
• Fireworks, flammable liquids, or other explosives

San Francisco Fleet Week 2022: Events, Schedule and More

From the blue angels to ship tours, here's what you need to know about san francisco fleet week, by brendan weber • published september 23, 2022 • updated on october 7, 2022 at 11:42 pm.

San Francisco Fleet Week is back.

The fall tradition will be highlighted by the Blue Angels screaming across the skies, but there are plenty of other events to check out. Explore the guide below to learn more about Fleet Week events.

When is San Francisco Fleet Week 2022?

Fleet Week is scheduled to take place Oct. 3-11.

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San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show

Head to a location along the San Francisco Bay between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to catch a thrilling aerial show featuring the Blue Angels, a United Airlines 777, the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team and much more.

• When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8; and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 9.
• Lineup and Schedule: Visit the San Francisco Fleet Week website for a look at the air show lineup and approximate performance times.
• Where: Ticketed seating located at the Marina Green in San Francisco
• Tickets: Air show tickets are available via the San Francisco Fleet Week website

San Francisco Fleet Week Parade of Ships

Focus your eyes on the water near the Golden Gate Bridge to catch the fleet of ships arriving in the Bay, escorted by a San Francisco Fire Department boat shooting water into the air.

• When: 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 7
• Where: San Francisco Bay waterfront (the parade can be seen from locations along the water between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge)

San Francisco Fleet Week Ship Tours

Climb aboard various ships to see what it's like to be a sailor in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard.

• When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5, Thursday, Oct. 6, Saturday, Oct. 8 and Sunday, Oct. 9; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 10
• Where: U.S. Navy ships at Pier 30/32 and Pier 35; U.S. Coast Guard ships at Pier 19

San Francisco Fleet Week K-9 Heroes

If you love dogs, this event is for you. Watch military and civilian working dogs show off their skills when it comes to drug, food and bomb detection, as well as search and rescue.

• When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8
• Where: Duboce Park in San Francisco

San Francisco Fleet Week Honor Our Fallen Concert

Pay special tribute to the U.S. service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice by attending the Honor Our Fallen Concert, led by the U.S. Marine Corps 1st Marine Division Band.

• When: 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6
• Where: Herbst Theatre at San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center (401 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco)
• Tickets: The concert is free and open to the public, but you must reserve your seat in advance. Reservations for the Honor Our Fallen concert can be made via the San Francisco Fleet Week website .

Blue Angels Buzzing the Bay This Weekend for San Francisco Fleet Week

Planning a Rooftop Blue Angels Watch Party in San Francisco? Here's Safety Tips From Firefighters

San francisco fleet week neighborhood concert series.

Enjoy Navy and Marine Corps bands perform during free concerts in neighborhoods across San Francisco. Check out the concert series schedule below.

Monday, Oct. 3

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When: 5 p.m. Where: Ghirardelli Square (900 North Point St.)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Old George Popular Music Group When: 7 p.m. Where: The Crossing (200 Folsom St.)

Tuesday, Oct. 4

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When: Noon Where: Yerba Buena Gardens (760 Howard St.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Woodwind Quintet When : Noon Where: San Francisco Zoo (Sloat Boulevard and Upper Great Highway)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Brass Band When: 6 p.m. Where: Noe Valley Town Square (3861 24th St.)

Wednesday, Oct. 5

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: Noon Where: Hayes Valley - Patricia's Green (50 Oak St.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Destroyers When : Noon Where: 555 California St.

Who: Navy Band Southwest Woodwind Quintet When : Noon Where: Sunset Branch Library on Irving Street (1305 18th Ave.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Woodwind Quintet When : 3 p.m. Where: Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco - Excelsior Clubhouse (163 London St.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When : 6 p.m. Where: Japan Town Peace Plaza (22 Peace Plaza)

Thursday, Oct. 6

Who: Navy Band Southwest Woodwind Quintet When: Noon Where: Ferry Building Marketplace (1 Ferry Building)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Destroyers When: 5 p.m. Where: Pier 39

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Castro (Jane Warner Plaza)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: 6 p.m. Where: Herbst Theatre at San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center (401 Van Ness Ave.)

Friday, Oct. 7

Who: Navy Band Southwest and 1st Marine Division Band When: 10 a.m. Where: ASN Broadcast Site Aquatic Park (700-898 Beach St.)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Brass Band When: Noon Where: Cable Car Turnaround to Union Square (333 Post St.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When: Noon Where: Golden Gate Park Band Shell (75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Old George Popular Music Group When: 1 p.m. Where: Union Square Plaza (333 Post St.)

Who: Navy Band Southwest When: 5 p.m. Where: Pier 39

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: 6 p.m. Where: 557 Valencia St.

Saturday, Oct. 8

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: 10 a.m. Where: Duboce Park (Duboce and Scott streets)

Who: Navy Band Southwest Brass Band When: Noon Where: Fisherman's Wharf Crab Wheel Plaza (2820 Taylor St.)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Brass Band When: 1 p.m. Where: Polk and Jackson streets

Who: Navy Band Southwest Woodwind Quintet When: 1 p.m. Where: Chinatown (Grant Avenue and Commercial Street)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Brass Band When: 4 p.m. Where: West Portal Courtyard (82 West Portal Ave.)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Old George Popular Music Group When: 7 - 10 p.m. Where: Westwood (2036 Lombard St.)

Sunday, Oct. 9

Who: 1st Marine Division Band and Navy Band Southwest When: 9 a.m. Where: Presidio Chapel (130 Fisher Loop)

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: 11:30 a.m. Where: Jefferson and Powell streets to Washington Park

Who: Navy Band Southwest Ceremonial Band When: 11:30 a.m. Where: Jefferson and Powell streets to Washington Park

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Ceremonial Band When: 5 p.m. Where: Chase Center (1 Warriors Way)

Monday, Oct. 10

Who: 1st Marine Division Band Brass Band When: 7 p.m. Where: Bayview Dr. George W. Davis Senior Center (1751 Carroll Ave.)

For information about other Fleet Week events, visit the San Francisco Fleet Week website .

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This article tagged under:

• Locations : Pier 35 near Fisherman's Wharf, and Piers 30/32 between the Ferry Building and the Giants ballpark.
• Cost : Free, queues are first come, first served - read Fleet Week Shipboard Guidelines    

Nearby restaurants and shops: 

• Queen's Louisiana Po-Boys - Pier 33
• EPIC Steak  - Rincon Park
• Waterbar Restaurant  - Rincon Park
• Hi Dive - Pier 28
• Red's Java House - Pier 30

Parade of Ships

• Date : Friday 10/6 
• Location : Between the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge
• Cost : Free

The procession will move across the waterfront towards the Bay Bridge, and any clear bayfront area is an ideal viewpoint to see the parade. Areas with unobstructed views include the apron at Pier 45, Pier 41 walkway, the Pier 39 boardwalk, the Pier 27 Cruise Terminal and walkways at Piers 15, 7, 1 and 14. 

• Pier 23 Cafe  - Pier 23
• Coqueta  - Pier 7
• La Mar - Pier 3
• Ferry Building Marketplace

Fleet Week Air Show

• Date: Friday 10/6, Saturday 10/7, and Sunday 10/8
• Location : Between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz

The waterfront event is headlined by the Blue Angels and is the only air show in the US with a commercial airliner, the United 777, to perform a fully choreographed act. 

Ticketed seats in Marina Green may be purchased on the Fleet Week website. Open spaces on the waterfront often fill early and quickly. It is recommended to arrive early to find your ideal viewing spot.

The air show may be too loud for dogs. People with sensitivities to noise may benefit from earplugs or ear covers.

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Fleet Week: Military ships open for tours in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The US Navy opened three ships to the public Wednesday morning in San Francisco for Fleet Week.

The USS Monsoor and the USS Shoup are docked at Pier 35. The USS Rushmore is at Piers 30/32. The USS McCain is also docked at Pier 35 but is not open to the general public.

"We love showing off our ship, we are all proud of it," said Ensign Scarlett Siemans aboard the USS Shoup Wednesday morning.

Military officials have cut back on how much interior space visitors will see because of COVID. Places like the mess hall and the living quarters will be closed. But crew members onboard say they believe the highlights of the tour are located outside and are still on the tour.

"I would definitely say the wide array of weapon capabilities we have. The destroyer is the big bad ship of the Navy, getting to be right next to it is pretty special," said Ens. Jack Dale.

The ships are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Friday they are closed because they will participate in the parade of ships. Monday they are open from 9 a.m. to noon.

SCHEDULE: SF Fleet Week 2021 returns with Navy's Blue Angels air show, military ships & more

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Visitors line up for Navy ship tours as part of San Francisco's Fleet Week

The USS Rushmore is open for tours during San Francisco Fleet Week. People are lining up to get a glimpse at the ship, anchored along Piers 30-32. You can even go below deck to see the inner workings of the warship.

SAN FRANCISCO - The Navy is in town for Fleet Week and visitors are lining up for tours. Ship tours started on Wednesday and visitors lined up as activity kicked into high gear.

The amphibious warship USS Rushmore anchored off Piers 30/32 as families lined up for tours. 

"We are from the East Bay," said Ashley Banks "So, Hayward Dublin area, so we stay at home and we take the kids anywhere and everywhere we can and why miss Fleet Week?"

Visitors say after a year of being cooped up, the return of Fleet Week is a major draw. 

"Just kind of explore and see what they have going on up there," said Lakeisha Herron. "The kids are really excited. As you can see our son was like, 'wait for me!'"

SEE ALSO: San Francisco the only city nationwide to host Fleet Week this year

On board, visitors can go below decks to check out the warship. 

Commander Emily Royse was on hand to greet the visitors. She said the sailors get just as much out of the tours are as the public. "It is a refreshing perspective when you have folks coming on board and they are interested in what our sailors do and our sailors love talking about their jobs, you know. And I encourage as folks see them out and about around town just engage them, and ask them questions," said Commander Royse.

The ship is just one of four in town through Monday, and the ships are unusually one of the major draws of Fleet Week. In years past, Fleet Week has brought as many as a million visitors to San Francisco, a welcome sight for hotels like the Argonaut on Fisherman's Wharf. 

This year, instead of international visitors, regional tourism is helping to fill the hotel rooms. "Imagine a circle of about 100-150 miles. A lot of people coming from the Central Valley or just south of us or north of us, and Sacramento," said Stefan Muhle from the Argonaut. "And then, of course, some domestic travel. SFO is seeing a slight increase now."

Muhle says major events like Fleet Week are critical to the city's hospitality industry. And after more than a year turning visitors away Fleet Week and the Giants in the playoffs run, all coming during a three-day weekend, is a welcome sight. 

"That's good news, it's good news for all of us. It's good news for hotels, restaurants, cab drivers, retail merchants, you know," said Muhle. "We're all looking forward to it."

KTVU has confirmed that the Blue Angels, the stars of the air show, have landed here in the Bay Area. They will be up and flying for survey flights Thursday, and the air shows will get underway Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

FLEET WEEK SF: https://fleetweeksf.org/

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Alerts in effect, welcome to san francisco maritime national historical park.

Located in the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park offers visitors the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Pacific Coast maritime history. The Park includes a magnificent fleet of historic ships, a Visitor Center, Maritime Museum, Maritime Research Center, and Aquatic Park Historic District.

Come explore the Post-Victorian wonderland of steel and steam aboard this 1907 tugboat.

Top 10 Tip for a Trip to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park!

“Better Lives, Bitter Lies” podcast "Special Episode: Preserving Historic Ships” is now available! Listen here, or on Apple Podcasts.

Through Around the Horn, the SF Maritime NHP hopes to inform visitors on projects that may impact their voyage through stories of the past!

Find out how to become a San Francisco Maritime Agent of Discovery!

Sing along on the choruses as Ranger Kasin performs a series of sheltered-in chanteys.

In the Maritime Voices series, park rangers relate significant park stories.

The park is near Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. Visit the fleet of historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier.

The Maritime Museum is in the historic Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building.

Discover the collection of historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier.

Last updated: February 5, 2024

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415 561-7000 The public information office is open from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. PST.

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Features | Thousands tour USS Princeton naval ship at San…

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Features | california gas prices are spiking again, what’s going on, features | thousands tour uss princeton naval ship at san francisco fleet week, since 1981, the annual event has brought visiting military ships and air shows featuring the blue angels flight demonstration team.

Suited up in an olive green pilot jumpsuit, 9-year-old Emma Wood could hardly contain her excitement as she waited to tour the USS Princeton, docked at Pier 30 in San Francisco.

She’s seen the action film “Top Gun: Maverick” six times since it was released earlier this year. And it’s inspired her to become a fighter pilot someday.

“I kind of like all of the action,” she said.

Wood, from Benicia, was one of an estimated 5,000 people who toured the 567-foot guided-missile cruiser on Saturday during San Francisco’s Fleet Week. Since 1981, the annual event has brought visiting military ships as well as air shows featuring the Blue Angels flight demonstration team, whose supersonic roar envelops the city each October.

Thousands of visitors from around the Bay Area and beyond flock to the Embarcadero and Marina Green at the edge of the San Francisco Bay to take in the festivities. The event, which also hosts community workshops and humanitarian assistance training sessions for service members and civilians, has become a model for Fleet Weeks across the country.

Aboard the USS Princeton, Chief Petty Officer Brian Pelham, the anti-ship missile defense coordinator for the vessel, said his crew trained local firefighters on watercraft rescue techniques during the visit. The ship, based out of San Diego, may take part in other Fleet Week events in Long Beach or Los Angeles later this year.

“We get to bring people on board and show them really what the taxpayer money really buys and what it means for us to have everybody onboard,” Pelham said. “And then it even has the other part of it, too, of us being able to visit some of these beautiful cities.”

Amanda Mavenyengwa, whose sister is currently serving in the Navy in Washington D.C., said she hoped touring the Princeton, armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles and two SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, would give her a better idea of her sister’s life in the military.

“Ever since she joined the military, that’s a major part of her life,” said Mavenyengwa, who’s from Mountain View. “It’s going to be interesting. It’s going to be fun.”

Thangamariappan’s son, Aadhavan, was excited to look out at the bay from the deck of the Princeton and watch the Blue Angels airshow. The family planned to enjoy the autumn San Francisco weather walking along the Embarcadero and then maybe do some shopping.

“We want to make sure that every year we’ll be here,” Thangamariappan said.

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Community Outreach

Historical reenactment league, pts resource center, overnight reservations are now being accepted for 2024-2025.  new safety modifications will be in place during the program and will be observed., set calendar dates for 2024-2025 are available for registration. to request a weekday or a date not already set please use the separate registration link to the right, upon booking a non refundable $100 deposit will be required to secure your date, stay the night aboard uss hornet .

Questions? Email [email protected] .

We Kindly Request that Youth Groups Register Under 1 Group Leader and Not Individually

Overnight Program Description

Program cost, overnight program faqs, night ops: live-aboard overnight adventure, *set calendar dates for 2023-2024 are available for registration. to request a weekday or a date not already set please use the separate link below.

Ever wonder how an aircraft carrier works? Come aboard and spend the night living with history on the ultimate overnight adventure and find out how USS Hornet’s sailors lived and worked on this city at sea! Designed for ages 7 and up, this is a perfect group activity for scouts, youth groups, schools, friends, and families!

During the Night Ops Overnight you will tour key areas of the ship to see various spaces and systems and discuss the history, science, and engineering behind them. As you move around the ship, you can participate in several hands-on science stations and demonstrations interspersed with seeing sailors’ living spaces! The experience includes:

• Sleeping in restored, original sailor sleeping compartments
• Enjoying Dinner and Breakfast in the original Enlisted Crew’s Mess
• Learning about this famous aircraft carrier’s daring exploits
• Touring key areas of the ship and the historic naval aircraft on display
• Learning about NASA’s Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 missions that put the first men on the moon
• Earning an overnight crew Patch & Certificate
• Ample Free Parking

All Overnight Guests must be at least 7 years old.

STEM Station Options May Include

Boiler and engine room.

• Powering the ship
• Thermodynamics, energy transfer/conversion, turbines, power

Catapult Room

• Machinery for launching planes
• Kinetic/potential energy, hydraulics/pneumatics, mechanical advantage

Flight Deck

• On-deck catapult, launching/recovering planes
• Kinetic /potential energy, forces, optics (Fresnel lens system)
• Navigation systems, radar, sonar, sound-powered phones
• Waves, communications
• Hydraulics/Pneumatic
• Electromagnetism
• Magnets, field paper, motor, generator, induction tubes, ring throw

NEW PROGRAM!

Night wings: an aviation themed overnight.

Now is your chance to earn your wings while spending the night onboard a historic aircraft carrier. During our highly focused aviation themed new overnight  you will get a chance to meet naval aviators and learn the science behind the principles of flight. Your evening includes tours of the ship, The 4 Forces of Flight STEM activity, meet and greet with a Navy pilot, and the opportunity to sit in a cockpit.  Come aboard and spend the night living with history on the ultimate overnight adventure and find out how USS  Hornet’s  aviators lived and worked on this city at sea! Designed for ages 7 and up, this is a perfect group activity for scouts, youth groups, schools, friends, and families!

*Night Wings is offered quarterly on our registration page

The experience includes:

• Enjoying Dinner and Breakfast in the original Enlisted Crew’s Mess
• Learning about this famous aircraft carrier’s daring exploits
• Access to special aviation themed spaces
• Learn the Four Forces of Flight from a naval aviator
• Sit in a jet cockpit
• Learning about NASA’s Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 missions that put the first men on the moon
• Earning an overnight crew Patch & Certificate and Wings

REGISTER for April 6th, 2024

More Dates for 2024 will be added shortly

Special Anniversary Splashdown 55 Apollo Themed Overnight

Saturday, july 20 th , 2024.

Join us for a special Live Aboard where admission to the anniversary of the Apollo 11 recovery celebration will be free for registered overnight guests during the day, followed by a science themed overnight adventure. Tour the ship and participate in various STEM labs while learning about Hornet’s Apollo legacy.  Day participation is optional.

All prices include Dinner and Breakfast in the original Crew’s Mess, tours throughout the ship, General Admission to the Museum the following day, a frame worthy Certificate, and a commemorative Patch for all youth attending the program. Our pricing tiers are determined by your group type:

FAMILY/SMALL GROUP

$100 per person for museum members /$120 per person for non-members..

For family and friend groups not affiliated with an established youth organization or company/corporation.

Choose from any ‘Family/Small Groups’ Date on our Reservation Form

YOUTH GROUPS & SCOUTING

Weekday rate (monday-thursday):.

$85 per person

Weekday events are only for organized school or scout groups.  Individuals must register for Weekend events.

Weekend rate (Friday-Saturday):

Individuals and groups less than 10: $120/person

Groups 10 or more: $100/person

Museum Members: $100/person

Choose from any Date on our Reservation Form

PROGRAM FAQs

Program availability & restrictions.

To check on scheduled overnight programs, please visit our Museum Calendar or click on our Overnight Reservation Application, which has an embedded calendar featuring program dates.

Our overnight programming is available to any organized group (scouts, schools, churches, etc.) and to smaller groups on specific “Small Group Overnight” dates. There is a 30-person minimum, or equivalent cost, if you book on a custom date that does not yet have a scheduled program. All participants must be at least 7 years of age.

All organized groups (ie: Boy Scouts, Boys and Girl Club, public and private schools) must provide a tour permit or proof of insurance that names the Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation as an additional insured. Siblings, friends, or other guest are welcome provided they are also covered by the group’s insurance. This does not apply to individual families or friend groups.

We offer a tiered rate for organized youth groups based on the day they attend. This price includes dinner and breakfast in the original crew’s mess hall, tours, a ride in the flight simulator, a commemorative patch and certificate, and coupon for a future visit! A deposit is required to secure a date for all groups and will be applied toward the total cost.

Adult:Youth Ratio

A minimum of one adult is required for every 6 youth guests (groups with children age 9 or younger must be accompanied by an adult at a 1:1 ratio). Children must be supervised at all times. Be prepared to organize into parent/youth teams for crew assignments.

Meal Options & Allergies

Standard Dinner Menu:

*Please note due to Covid meals for 2021-2022 season will be prepared boxed meals

• Spaghetti with Marinara (red) Sauce
• Meatballs on the side
• Green Salad with options of Italian or Ranch Dressing
• Sliced Garlic Bread
• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Bottled Water

Standard Breakfast Menu:

• Hash Browns
• Scrambled Eggs
• Juice (Grape, Orange, or Cranberry)
• Coffee for guests 18 and over

Important Information:

• We can only accommodate vegetarians
• If you are a vegan, gluten free, have a serious food allergy, etc. you will need to bring your own meal options. We have a fridge and microwave for your convenience.
• While the eating area (Mess Deck) is a nut free area and our food is prepared by a nut free caterer; there are vending machines onboard which serve items that contain nuts that is available to fellow participants.

Sleeping Areas and other Facilities

Our overnight guests get the unique opportunity to sleep in our ship’s original enlisted sleeping compartments! This does mean that it will be very much like group camping in one large room and individual family groups will share a single compartment, though there will be room to spread out.

Each organized group or youth group will likely receive their own ship’s berthing compartment . You may have to share the compartment with another group. Female guests may choose to sleep in a separate compartment.

Please be aware that you may experience normal ship noises such as creaks and groans during the night.

Equipment to Bring

The berthing compartments are equipped with canvas covered “racks” with foam mattresses. Each person should bring a pillow, sheet, sleeping bag, and extra blanket in cold weather, toiletries, hand towel, flashlight, a jacket, and a warm hat in cold weather. Scouts are encouraged to wear their uniforms.

Please Do Not Bring

Please do not bring any electronic devices including hairdryers; laser pointers; knives; open flame devices including lighters and matches; or food or drink items (with an exception of meals for those with food allergies).

A limited number of lockers are available to share in the berthing compartments. Each group can bring several locks to secure their valuables and personal belongings. The Museum is NOT responsible for loss of personal items.

Arrival Time

Please make arrangements for your group to meet on the pier at the same time. The group leader must arrive on time to receive program instructions. The check-in briefing and safety drill are an important part of your overnight experience. Special arrangements can be made for late arrivals by contacting [email protected] .

Weekend (Saturdays) Schedule – Plan to organize on the pier by 4 :30pm to begin your evening program with boarding at 5 :00pm .

Weeknight (Wed – Fri) Schedule – Plan to organize on the pier by 5:30pm to begin your evening program with boarding at 6:00pm .

Driving directions are available online .

Overnight gear is not allowed on the ship before 5 PM on Saturdays/6 PM on weekdays and private vehicles are not allowed on the pier. Parking is available across the street and participants are expected to carry sleeping bags and other gear on board at the appointed time. Our overnight programs are conducted in a fun-spirited, organized manner; falling in, stowing your gear, and following orders are all part of this unique and memorable experience.

Wristbands will be issued upon arrival and must be worn at all times while aboard USS Hornet . The wristband gives you in-out privileges during museum hours on the second day.

Safety Drill

All participants must participate in an emergency evacuation drill. (MANDATORY).

Handicap Access

Due to the historical nature of the ship, handicap access is extremely limited. For more information, please see our Accessibility page.

Emergencies

Museum staff will be onsite and available in case of emergency. After-hour or emergency contact can be made by calling the Security Desk at (510) 521-8448 x 226.

Coinciding Events

Many events take place aboard USS Hornet and it is possible that a banquet, dance, cocktail reception, or other function may be scheduled during your visit. On such occasions, your group activities will remain separated from the event area.

Headcount Changes, Late Payments, & Cancellations

What is your cancellation policy? 

Your $100 deposit is non-refundable, but I can change it to a different date.  You can change your headcount at any time.

• Changes made 15+ days before your event: no penalty.
• Changes made 8-14 days before your event: full credit.
• Changes made 2-7 days before your event: half credit.
• Changes made the same day (including no shows): no credit.

If you have any questions, please email us:  [email protected] 

© Copyright USS Hornet 2024. All Rights Reserved.

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• USS Pampanito

USS Pampanito: What It's Like to Visit this WWII Submarine Museum

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: September 4, 2023

The USS Pampanito SS-383 is a WWII Balao-class fleet submarine. This historical vessel is now a famous floating museum in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood.

This important sub went out on six patrols in the Pacific during World War II. During these tours, it sank six Japanese ships and damaged four others.

It is open every day (including major holidays) from 10 am to 6 pm.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Touring the Submarine

If you are a military history buff or have never been on a submarine before, I highly recommend touring the USS Pampanito SS-383. Here are pictures and some details about what it's like to go inside it from my last visit.

The tour starts at the back of the submarine. The first room you will enter is the torpedo room.

Several torpedoes are on display here. The room is very small, which gives you the chance to get a close look at these massive weapons.

This is where they would load the torpedoes at the back of the USS Pampanito.

From here, you walk behind the stairs you came down to enter the first of two engine rooms. These are some of the controls used to manage the submarine.

This is the main engine control panel.

After walking through the second engine room, you'll come upon the sleeping quarters. According to the audio tour, the USS Pampanito had only two bunks for every three people on board. Since at least one of them was always on duty, they didn't need a bunk for each person.

The next room you will enter is the small mess hall. This is where everyone ate and hung out when they weren't on duty. There was only a little bit of room, and this area was almost always crowded.

The final room you will enter below deck is the room where they planned the missions.. This room is full of interesting controls, lights, and more.

Make sure you spend some time looking at this route map. It shows the routes for all of the missions for the USS Pampanito SS-383.

This panel was known as the Christmas Tree. It has both red and green lights. All lights had to be green before the submarine could start its journey.

After you finish in this room, you'll head back upstairs to the main deck. These are just a couple of pictures from this area of the submarine.

Additional Touring Details

While visiting the submarine is a fantastic experience, there are a few things you need to know. This SF museum was only slightly modified to accommodate visitors visiting it. This means the entire tour is in close quarters.

There are only two sets of stairs. Each one is STEEP. They are more like ladders than stairs. Here is a look down the first set of stairs.

The doors are also small. Here is an example of the doorways that you will need to pass through to get from room to room.

Since it is such a tight fit inside, I don't recommend this tour for those who are claustrophobic or have difficulty getting around tight spaces. It will most likely be an unpleasant visit.

Note: If you still want to see a WWII vessel without being so cramped, then I recommend heading to Pier 35 and visiting the SS Jeremiah O'Brien . It is a World War II Liberty ship, and offers more room to move around it.

Tickets & Tours

You can buy tickets online or in person for this tour. It's usually not too busy here, so you won't have any problems buying tickets at the time of your visit.

You can spend as much or as little time on the USS Pampanito as you want. The audio tour takes about 35 to 40 minutes if you let it run without pausing. It runs at a good pace and gives you plenty of time to look around each room.

It is open seven days a week starting at 10 am and closing at 6 pm. This includes most major holidays.

Admission Prices

• Adults : $30
• Seniors (62 and over) : $20
• Youth (5 - 13) : $15
• Children (4 and under) : Free
• Family (2 adults and 2 juniors) : $65
• Students with ID : $20
• Active U.S. Military With ID: $10

There is a free audio tour that you can listen to while you explore on your own. Docent-led tours are available by prior arrangement.

You can also use the Go City all-inclusive pass. This discount card offers you admission to the USS Pampanito as well as tickets and tours for more of SF's top attractions and activities. Learn more here . 

Finding the Museum

The museum is in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf. Here is a map showing its location.

When you get close, you will see this sign. Walk under the sign to access the USS Pampanito.

Additional Pages You Might Enjoy

Other Military History Sites

Fort Point National Historic Site

SF National Cemetery

Other Popular Attractions Nearby

Boudin Bakery : One stop you must make on your visit to San Francisco is Boudin Bakery. This yummy bakery serves up the world-famous San Francisco sourdough bread. You can either grab a quick lunch downstairs or enjoy a relaxing meal upstairs in their restaurant.

Pier 39 : The famed Pier 39 is just steps away from the USS Pampanito. This remodeled pier offers shopping, restaurants, and several other attractions. This is where you will find the sea lions basking in the sun, get the chance to visit the Aquarium of the Bay, and ride the historic carousel.

The Cannery : Not too far away is another historic building, the Cannery. It is now a shopping plaza with some great places to grab lunch or dinner. Make sure you stop by their courtyard to admire the 100+ year-old olive trees.

A Perfect Day in Fisherman's Wharf : Still trying to figure out how to see it all in one day? This "perfect day" itinerary offers the best way to stroll through Fisherman's Wharf in just one go. Savor a famous Irish Coffee, visit SF's historic ships, grab fresh crab for lunch on Fish Alley, and more.

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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