uss pampanito tour

San Francisco's USS Pampanito: The Complete Guide

Delve into SF's seafaring history with a visit to the USS Pampanito

Esteban Martinena Guerrero/Getty Images 

USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial

Situated in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, the USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a Balao-class submarine that today operates as a floating museum and memorial for the Navy's “silent service” (submarines). It's part of the larger San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park , highlighting Pacific Coast maritime history through numerous stand-alone attractions, including a bevy of historic vessels, a visitors center and a maritime museum. For a look into the Pacific's seafaring past, there's no better way to spend an afternoon. 

History of the USS Pampanito

The diesel-electric powered USS Pampanito was launched into service on July 12, 1943 along the US East Coast, making her way across the Panama Canal en route to Pearl Harbor, where she arrived on Valentine's Day, 1944. Over the next couple of years she embarked on six individual war patrols — all in the Pacific Ocean — over which time she sank six Japanese ships, damaged four others, and owned six WWII battle stars. Badly damaged on her first war patrol, the submarine was later refitted and repaired at Pearl Harbor's Midway Island. 

After the war, the celebrated vessel proceeded to San Francisco, and was decommissioned at nearby Mare Island on December 15, 1945. Although it sat unused, the Navy maintained the Pampanito to be reactivated at any time. In April 1960 she was turned into a Naval training vessel at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, and continued in this role until 1971. It wasn't until 1976 that the Pampanito became a memorial and museum, first opening to the public in March 1982. 

The carefully restored vessel maintains its 1945 appearance and now hosts thousands of visitors annually, offering both self-guided audio tours and pre-scheduled docent-led tours led by docents. Along with San Francisco's SS Jeremiah O'Brien, it celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2018. 

What to See and Do 

The Pampanito is a National Historic Landmark moored at Pier 45 in the heart of San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, and self-guided audio tours begin on the Main Deck Aft, visiting everything from the vessel's torpedo room to its engine rooms, crew's mess and gallery, radio room, and pump room along the way. Various exhibits are set up throughout, with the audio providing various details of each as well as as first-hand accounts from former onboard personnel. 

The ship's still-working parts include its periscope, one torpedo tube, engines, and an onboard ice-cream maker. There's even a broom flying from her mast, representing that the submarine made a “clean sweep” of the sea's enemies. 

In addition to operating this historic vessel, the San Francisco Maritime Park Association also runs education programs for both children and adults that take place onboard throughout the year, including overnight stays utilizing the Pampanito's 48 bunk beds. There are also sea shanty sing-a-longs every first Saturday evening of the month aboard the Hyde Street Pier's fleet of turn-of-century ships, traveling exhibits viewable at the historic Maritime Museum just across the street from Ghirardelli Square in Aquatic Park — an Streamline Moderne-style structure known for its distinct sea murals — a massive library archive of maritime books, maps, and charts dating back centuries, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park Visitor Center, located in the same historic brick cannery building as the Argonaut Hotel. The park hosts an annual Maritime Beer Fest each April, and offers exquisite views of Alcatraz , San Francisco Bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge all year long. 

Take a stroll along the park's circular Aquatic Park Pier (Muni Pier) , or set sail on the park's historic scow schooner ALMA, a 1891 ship that's the last of her kind. The Hyde Street Pier Small Boat Shop offers an opportunity to witness traditional boat building and hands-on boat repair. Waterfront walking tours leave from the lobby of the Argonaut Hotel weekends at 10:30 a.m. 

In June 2018, Hyde Pier's iconic 1886 three-masted Balclutha tall ship has temporarily relocated to nearby Alameda for maintenance, but is scheduled to return in 2019. 

The Pampanito is open to visitors daily. Call (415) 775-1943 for specific times. 

Where to Stay, Eat, and Drink 

Located in the same historic building and adjacent to the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park's visitor center, San Francisco's luxury boutique Argonaut Hotel is the perfect place for fully immersing yourself in the city's seafaring history. With its exposed brick walls, original timbers, and nautical fabrics, the property is overflowing with character and boasts the Blue Mermaid Bar & Restaurant, where seafood is the star and cocktails also boast their own maritime themes.

For a true San Francisco treat wander over to Bistro Boudin, known for its legendary sourdough bread — especially its bread bowls, filled to the brim with either traditional clam chowder or crab & corn bisque. Or grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a legendary Irish coffee at the Buena Vista, right across the street from the Powell-Hyde cable car turnaround. If it's delicious seafood (think “line-caught” wild cod and seared Alaskan halibut) with waterfront views you're after, Scoma's has been a neighborhood favorite since 1965. 

Getting There

Both the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason cable car lines offer direct access to Fisherman's Wharf, along with the historic F-line MUNI streetcar, which runs along Market Street from the Castro. Both the East Bay's Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and CalTrain (by way of the MUNI N-Judah) connect with the F-line in front of San Francisco's Ferry Building.  

There are public restrooms at Pier 39 and the end of Hyde Street at the waterfront, and an individual bathrooms at Bay and Taylor streets.

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USS Pampanito

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WWII Liberty Ship and Submarine Pampanito

Exploring the ss jeremiah o’brien and uss pampanito: a journey through history.

When you visit San Francisco and explore its rich maritime heritage, two remarkable vessels stand out as living testaments to history – the  SS Jeremiah O’Brien  and the  USS Pampanito . These World War II veterans offer a captivating journey back in time, allowing you to experience the stories of brave sailors and the vital role these ships played during the war. Here’s everything you need to know about these historic vessels and why you should make them a must-visit during your stay in the Bay Area.

SS Jeremiah O’Brien: A Living Museum of WWII

Location:  Pier 35, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

• Historical Significance:  The SS Jeremiah O’Brien is one of only two fully functional Liberty ships remaining from the 2,710 constructed during World War II. It’s the last unaltered Liberty ship, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time to the days of high seas and enemy threats.
• National Landmark:  This living museum is on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
• Immersive Experience:  Visitors can explore virtually the entire ship, from the engine room to the flying bridge. The ship’s boilers are even “lit off,” and on special Steaming Weekends, the 2500-horsepower main engine operates, providing an up-close look at its machinery in action.
• Restoring History:  The National Liberty Ship Memorial’s mission is to restore, promote, and operate the SS Jeremiah O’Brien as a living museum. By visiting, you contribute to preserving the legacy of the men and women who built and sailed these vital World War II vessels.

History of the O’Brien

• The Beginning:  The SS Jeremiah O’Brien was launched in June 1943 at the New England Shipbuilding Corporation in South Portland, Maine. It served in various voyages during World War II, including the D-Day invasion, before being laid up in Suisun Bay after the war.
• Out of the Mothball Fleet:  In the 1970s, Rear Adm. Thomas J. Patterson saved the O’Brien from scrapyard oblivion. Skilled volunteers removed layers of preservatives, and the ship made a triumphant return to San Francisco after restoration.
• Return to Normandy:  In 1994, the O’Brien embarked on an epic journey, retracing its history to England and France for the 50th Anniversary of Operation Overlord. It was reviewed by the Queen of England and visited by the U.S. President, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Liberty ships.

Visit Details

• The SS Jeremiah O’Brien is fully seaworthy and open to the public, moored at Pier 35, The Embarcadero.
• Steaming Weekends, usually the third Saturday and Sunday of each month, offer a chance to see the engine plant in action.
• Check the calendar for San Francisco Bay cruises and other events.
• The ship relies on volunteers and donations for its operations.
• Contact: +1 415-544-0100,  [email protected] ,  ssjeremiahobrien.org

USS Pampanito: A Silent Service Memorial

Location:  Historic Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

• Meticulous Restoration:  The USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a beautifully restored World War II diesel-electric powered submarine. It serves as both a museum and a memorial to those who served in the “silent service.”
• Heroic Record:  Built in just nine months in 1943 at the Navy Yard in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Pampanito made six patrols in the Pacific, sinking six enemy ships and damaging four others.
• Educational Experience:  Pampanito offers self-guided audio tours and, by arrangement, docent-led tours. It’s a unique opportunity to step inside a WWII submarine and learn about its crucial role.

History of the Pampanito

• WWII Service:  Pampanito conducted patrols off Kyūshū, Shikoku, and Honshū, earning six battle stars for its service during World War II.
• Post-War Life:  After the war, Pampanito underwent various assignments and was eventually decommissioned in 1971. It was turned into a memorial and museum in 1975.
• National Historic Landmark:  In 1986, Pampanito was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and declared a National Historic Landmark.
• Pampanito is open daily to the public at Historic Pier 45.
• Visitors can enjoy self-guided audio tours and, with prior arrangements, docent-led tours.
• The USS Pampanito Amateur Radio Club operates from the submarine, bringing the radio room to life on selected Saturdays.
• The ship offers educational programs and even the opportunity for organized groups to spend the night in the submarine.
• Pampanito has undergone several maintenance dry dockings and still boasts working parts, including a torpedo tube and periscope.
• Contact:  maritime.org/uss-pampanito

When you visit the SS Jeremiah O’Brien and USS Pampanito, you’re not just exploring historic vessels; you’re stepping into the past and connecting with the incredible stories of those who served during World War II. These living museums in the heart of San Francisco are a testament to the courage and determination of the men and women who built, sailed, and defended these vital ships. Don’t miss the chance to experience this piece of history during your visit to the Bay Area.

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Tour the WWII Submarine USS Pampanito

The USS Pampanito Goes to War

Between 1944-45 the Pampanito completed six war patrols in the Pacific Theater . After her shakedown cruise in the Atlantic, the USS Pampanito headed directly for Pearl Harbor via the Panama Canal and arrived there in February 1944. Her deployment was during the latter part of the Pacific war.

When you tour the USS Pampanito you will get a good feel of the last few years of the war. This was the period after the Battle of Midway when the U.S. was quite on the offensive in the western Pacific. Her first war patrol took her to Saipan and Guam . She had to return to Pearl Harbor for repairs of damage caused by Japanese depth charges. An interesting thing when you tour the Pampanito today are the separate displays of items such as depth charges, torpedos (shown above right) and torpedo hatches. Your visit to the vessel is more than just a tour of a submarine. It’s really a well rounded presentation of World War Two submarine warfare in general.

The Patrols of the U.S.S. Pampanito

The Pampanito’s second war patrol took her near the Japanese home islands where she almost was almost hit by torpedos from a Japanese sub. Her third patrol was in the South China Sea where she inadvertently sunk a Japanese troop ship which was transporting British POW’s. This was quite common of the Japanese to bring some POW’s back to the home islands. The Pampanito picked up over 70 survivors of that sinking. The fourth patrol was off Formosa where she sunk a 1,200 ton Japanese cargo ship . The fifth patrol was in the Gulf of Siam where another cargo vessel was sunk and then back to the Gulf of Siam for her sixth patrol .

After the sixth patrol the USSA Pampanito sailed back to Pearl Harbor then on to San Francisco for an overhaul. She then went back to Pearl Harbor but was called back to San Francisco because of the war’s end.

Decommissioning

The USS Pampanito was decommissioned at Mare Island next to the North Bay town of Vallejo California in December 1945. It’s not far east of Vallejo in the Sacramento River where the Navy stored many old World War Two vessels in what was called the “mothball fleet “. The question is…what does a perfectly good submarine do after the war and after being decommissioned? Not a whole lot until 1962 when the Pampanito was assigned as a Naval Reserve Training Ship at Vallejo. Finally in December 1971 the USS Pampanito was officially taken off Navy registration records, almost thirty years after the launching of this historic United States naval ship.

Today, the USS Pampanito is on the National Register of Historic Places and is an official National Historic Landmark .

Just as the ship berthed behind her, the Jeremiah O’Brien , the Pampanito was recognized as being an invaluable asset perfect for historic preservation and for the public to enjoy and learn from. While the Jeremiah O’Brien represents the all important Liberty Ship program, the Pampanito represents the heroic contributions of submariners during war.

Visit the USS Pampanito

The USS Pampanito is now owned and operated by the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association which displays several historic ships.

The submarine was transferred to the Maritime Park Association in 1976 and was opened for public tours in 1982. When you visit the Pampanito you’ll pass the Maritime National Park which displays several more historic ships like the side wheeler Eureka which among other assignments ferried passengers and automobiles over San Francisco Bay during the early 1900’s.

If you enjoy exploring old vessels and World War Two naval ships, you’ll absolutely enjoy these displays adjacent to F ishermans Wharf at the San Francisco Maritime Park . It’s one of the very finest displays of maritime vessels in the United States.

See these additional Trips Into History articles on the links below…

World War Two Attacks on America’s West Coast

A Civil War Submarine

Today, this classic World War Two submarine also makes a great venue for group sleepovers . Organizations such as the Cub Scouts have taken advantage of this opportunity to spend the night on the Pampanito using it’s 48 bunk beds . Small waves churned up by passing cargo ships often give the Pampanito a slight roll so those who spend the night aboard may get an authentic sailing experience. The Pampanito also conducts educational programs for adults and youngsters.

Take a fascinating tour back to the times of World War Two and the U.S. Navy in wartime by visiting the magnificent floating museum which is the submarine USS Pampanito.

To get to the submarine on Pier 45 in San Francisco, walk straight through the Musee Mecanique (entrance shown at right)  at Fishermans Wharf and turn left on the pier. At that point you will see both the Pampanito and the Jeremiah O’Brien behind her.

(Article and photos copyright Trips Into History)

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USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a World War II Balao class fleet submarine built in 1943 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. A member of the elite force of U.S. submarines that helped turn the tide of World War II in the Pacific,  Pampanito  made six patrols during World War II. The vessel sank six Japanese ships and damaged four others, with a total of more than 27,000 tons of enemy shipping sunken. During its first two patrols,  Pampanito  narrowly escaped destruction. While attacking an enemy convoy on the first patrol,  Pampanito  was spotted, severely depth charged and damaged. On  Pampanito's  second patrol, while patrolling off the coast of Japan, alert lookouts spotted two torpedo wakes approaching allowing enough time to avoid them. During  Pampanito's  third, and most well known, patrol the sub operated as part of a wolf-pack consisting of USS Growler (SS-215) and USS Sealion (SS-315) . On the morning of September 12, 1944, the pack attacked a convoy carrying war production materials of oil and raw rubber. Unknown to the skippers, the convoy also carried more than 2,000 British and Australian prisoners of war. On September 15th,  Pampanito  moved back to the area of the original attack and found men clinging to makeshift rafts. As the sub moved closer, the men were heard to be shouting in English.  Pampanito  was able to pick up 73 men and called in three other subs in the area to assist with the rescue. For World War II service,  Pampanito  earned six battle stars. She was decommissioned in 1945. In the conflict against Japan in World War II, the role and importance of the submarine forces of the United States cannot be overestimated. American submarines sank more than 600,000 tons of enemy warships and more than 5,000,000 tons of merchant shipping, thus destroying much of Japan's ocean commerce. This was accomplished by a force that never numbered more than two percent of naval personnel engaged in the war. The American submarine war against Japan created a blockade that denied the country oil, iron ore, food and other raw materials needed to continue to fight. The USS Pampanito  is now one of the most popular historic vessels in the country, welcoming nearly 200,000 visitors each year. The USS Pampanito , a National Historic Landmark , is located at Pier 45 in the center of Fisherman's Wharf, in San Francisco. The submarine is now a floating museum.  Discover more history and culture by visiting the World War II in San Francisco Bay Area travel itinerary.

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USS Pampanito

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USS PAMPANITO: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Pier 45 San Francisco: USS Pampanito, and Other Historic Fisherman's Wharf Attractions

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: April 25, 2023

Pier 45 San Francisco is home to the USS Pampanito submarine, an antique penny arcade, and a memorial chapel for those lost at sea.

This historic pier is in the heart of the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. It's the perfect stop for war history buffs, visitors looking for a little nostalgic fun, and tourists curious about SF’s fishing culture and history.

As you walk along the pier, you will find several pieces of information about the USS Pampanito.

For decades, it was also home to the SS Jeremiah O’Brien, a WWII Liberty Ship that is now docked at Pier 35 less than a half mile east of here.

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

USS Pampanito: San Francisco Submarine

One of the reasons why I love visiting Pier 45 San Francisco is the USS Pampanito submarine.

The USS Pampanito survived six patrols of the Pacific during World War II and to this day preserves the military submarine technology and equipment of 1945.

This historic war vessel offers both an excellent self-guide tour and an audio tour that guides you through the sub and provides commentary about what you are looking at along the way.

Onboard the USS Pampanito, you’ll get to explore the torpedo room, engine room, control room, sleeping quarters, and main deck.

It's also just fun to be on a submarine, since it's such a unique experience.

Find more pictures and additional details on what it's like to visit the USS Pampanito .

If you love visiting historical military sites, you will find quite a few great ones in San Francisco. This page offers a few additional places to visit in Fisherman's Wharf and other places around San Francisco .

Other Attractions at Pier 45

If you decide you don't want to visit the USS Pampanito, you can still walk along and enjoy other attractions at Pier 45 San Francisco for free.

Musée Mécanique

This wonderful museum houses a collection of over 300 antique carnival and arcade games as old as San Francisco's famous Playland at the Beach, a popular amusement park that began in the 1920s.

One of the crowd favorites from that era is Laffing Sal, a giant papier-maché mechanical puppet whose toothy smile and raucous laugh often frightened little ones.

Other classic gems you’ll find here include fortune tellers, penny machines, player pianos, pinball, and more. 

This is a great spot for a trip down memory lane, and also for kids who have never before seen these vintage games to have the opportunity to actually watch these well-preserved antiques in action.

The museum is free to visit and fun to walk around. If you want to make the machines work, most of them cost just a quarter.

>> See photos and tips for visiting the Musée Mécanique

Fishermen’s and Seamen’s Memorial Chapel

Just across from Pier 45, you’ll see a quaint wooden structure with a bell tower, steep roof, and stained glass windows, sitting right over a lagoon.

The chapel was built to honor the generations of San Franciscans who have lost their lives to the treacherous wind, fog, and waves at sea. It was erected between 1978 and 1981 where the old Coast Guard building used to be.

Inside, you’ll find plaques bearing names of men and women who have died on the open water, and dozens of flags and banners from different regions hanging from the ceiling.

If you happen to be around on a Saturday between 11 am and 1 pm, step in and admire the solemn serenity. On special occasions, you may hear the bell and carillon ring out.

SS Jeremiah O'Brien: Liberty Ship from WWII (Now at Pier 35)

Until March 2023, there was another historic war vessel berthed at Pier 45, apart from the submarine. It was the SS Jeremiah O’Brien, the sole survivor of the 6,000-ship D-Day armada of WWII in Normandy.

The ship has been moved to Pier 35—located just between the popular Pier 39 attraction and the Alcatraz tours at Pier 33—where you can visit and take a tour of the museum, main deck, living quarters, mess hall, stern gun, and more.

Since it is the only still-functioning WWII Liberty Ship in original configuration, it’s worth taking advantage of certain occasions when the crew will actually take visitors out cruising on the bay so you can see the engine in action, the way it operated back in the 1940s.

>> Find tips to visit this gem at its new location

Map of Pier 45

As I mentioned above, the historic Pier 45 San Francisco is in the heart of the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. Here is a map showing where it's located within this district.

>>  Visit the Fisherman's Wharf Attractions & Activities page for tips on how to get here .

>> Find some great places to eat nearby

The Future of Pier 45

In an effort to revitalize San Francisco’s famed Fisherman’s Wharf–especially after the economic downturn of the pandemic–a group of local business owners have come up with a plan to revamp Pier 45 in a way that pays tribute to its origins.

The proposal includes a fish market and a seafood processing center in which the fresh catch of the day would be on display to the public as it gets prepared for sale. There would also be a food hall, an interactive museum, and an events center.

The plan aims to expand the wharf’s capacity as an educational and community space, in parallel with keeping it the heart of San Francisco’s tourist industry.

The plan has not been approved at this time, but would be a welcome addition to the area.

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A Perfect Day in Fisherman's Wharf : How do you cover this entire district in just one day? Click through the link above to find a self-guided tour that offers you the chance to see as much as possible in just one day.

Boudin Bakery : Just next to Pier 45 San Francisco, you will find one of my favorite places to grab some clam chowder, Boudin Bakery. This yummy restaurant is famous for their sourdough bread. Grab some soup in one of their bread bowls and you will be set for the day!

Buena Vista Cafe : Have you always wanted to try one of those famous Irish Coffees from SF? If so, then this is the place. This historic cafe introduced this famous drink to the US. Today, you will still find some of the best here. In addition to their Irish Coffee, you can also enjoy a hearty breakfast, delicious lunch or filling dinner.

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USS Pampanito

Soak in some maritime history at fisherman’s wharf.

You don’t have to be a military historian or even a sailor to enjoy a tour aboard the USS Pampanito but you’re likely to leave the tour with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the men who served on her. This Balao-class submarine saw extensive action in the Pacific in World War II, where she sank six Japanese warships and damaged four others. Although she was decommissioned many years ago, the Pampanito is still very much in service, so to speak, as a museum that hosts more than 100,000 visitors a year. A national historic landmark, the Pampanito is owned and operated by the Maritime Park Association , which offers many educational programs on and off the warship, including daytime activities and overnight sleepovers.

The Pampanito is currently undergoing extensive renovations to restore her to her condition at the war’s end in late summer 1945. This has been going on for several years as curators and supporters have scoured the United States and the world for missing equipment and spare parts to ensure that as much of the ship is as authentic as possible. Countless man-hours have been donated by retired submariners to restore old equipment to full operation to make this floating and fully operational museum as she was when she patrolled the Pacific. Youngsters taking part in the many educational programs occasionally get a chance to speak directly to old salts who served on Balao-class boats and other World War II submarines.

If you’d like to tour the Pampanito , she’s easy to find, as she is one of them many attractions on Fisherman’s Wharf . The museum opens at 9 a.m. every day, but closing hours vary by season. Self-guided tours cost only $3, but you may wish to upgrade to the guided version at $12 to get the most out of this interesting and very affordable San Francisco attraction. Kids, seniors and students can tour this one-of-a-kind museum for a bit less, as can current active duty military personnel with proper ID. The USS Pampanito is located at Pier 45 on the Wharf. For more information about this unique experience and the educational opportunities offered by the Association, visit the official site at http://www.maritime.org/pamphome.htm .

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Tickets & prices USS Pampanito

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Admission prices & discounts for tickets to USS Pampanito in San Francisco

The following overview lists the admission prices and various discounts and discount codes for a visit to USS Pampanito in San Francisco . All prices are displayed per age group or reduced rate group. You can also directly book your discounted online ticket for the USS Pampanito here, if available, or make a reservation to reserve a timeslot if applicable.

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More about USS Pampanito

• Board of Trustees
• Bylaws and Financials
• Chantey Sings
• Sea Music Concerts
• Labor History
• Sea Music Festival
• Moby Dick Marathon
• Summer Camp
• Onsite Programs
• Online Learning
• Overnight Programs
• Buy Tickets
• USS Pampanito Restoration
• Lost Boat Ceremony
• Matching Gifts
• Corporate Giving

Pampanito Overnight

Come aboard the USS Pampanito and go back in time to World War II when she patrolled Japanese waters searching for enemy ships! Spend the night in the same bunks used by the Submariners, enjoy a personalized tour from bow to stern including the engine room, Torpedo Room, Control Room, and Conning Tower, and take in the sights of the San Francisco waterfront. Open to all organized groups. ( More about the  Pampanito .)

The USS Pampanito Overnight Program is open to all organized youth groups that meet our insurance requirement and group ratio rules.  We require an adult/child ratio of 1:6, and a minimum of 7 adults with any-sized group.  The largest group we can accommodate is 35 visitors.  The minimum age to participate is 6 years old.  We do not allow siblings unless they are a member of the visiting group such as a Boy Scout or Girl Scout Pack or Troop.

If your own organization has stricter ratio requirements (For example, Cub Scouts require a 1:1 adult/youth ratio), please adhere to your own organization’s rules.

The program timeline is 6.30pm to 8:30am the following day.  Please refer to the manual for details.

Participants will:

• Receive overnight accommodations onboard the World War II submarine USS  Pampanito , sleeping in bunks in the original crew or officer’s quarters.
• Depending on the wishes of the group, qualified instructors will lead the group on a guided tour of the vessel or the visitors may listen to the audio tour offered to the public during the USS Pampanito’s normal business operation.
• Guided tour of off-limit compartments such as the Conning Tower and Gun Deck (weather permitting)–our knowledgeable staff can provide inside information on the many different systems and pieces of equipment aboard the submarine.
• Hear the story of the USS Pampanito and submarines in World War II, the daily lives of the submarine crews, and the advanced technology crammed in every compartment.

Please refer to the Overnight Encampment manual for further details on the timeline of the program.  Education staff at USS Pampanito are very flexible, if you have a specific request or scheduling need please reach out to:

Education Director Laura DeFelice [email protected] (415) 561-6662

The visiting group is provided with 2 parking spaces only inside Shed A on Pier 45.  As of February 2020, the parking situation at Pier 45 changed.  Please wait by the front gate and look out for a USS Pampanito Education Staff member who will assist you at 6:30pm, the earliest possible time to park.  These overnight passes are included in your trip cost and allow overnight parking up to 9:00am at the latest. All other vehicles will need to find overnight parking accomodations at their own expense.

Please see the Parking Map for specific details of how to arrive by private vehicle.  Visiting groups are encouraged to carpool, take public transit such as SF Muni, the BART, as well as the Ferry.  We are located next to Pier 43 and a 30-minute walk from the Embarcadero.  Please visit Red & White and Blue & Gold Ferry websites for specific scheduling.

Map and Parking Guide – See Manual 

An important role that the adults serve during their time aboard USS Pampanito is conducting Nightwatch.  Nightwatch is important to ensure the safety of the group.  There must be at least one adult awake from 11:00pm to 7:00am the following day.  Participation of adults (18 and older) is MANDATORY, but the participation of Minors (18 and below) is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED but not mandatory.  The purpose of this watch is to ensure that everyone is safe, to intervene in case of a medical emergency, to begin evacuation of the vessel in case of fire, flood, or earthquake.  There is always a USS Pampanito Deckhand on staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this staff member will not enter the sleeping compartments unless it is absolutely necessary.  The sleeping areas are the responsibility of the adult group leaders and chaperones to maintain the peace and to promptly clean up any spills.   USS Pampanito staff are here to help at any time, day or night.

FRIDAY – SUNDAY

The cost to participate in a weekend overnight encampment is a flat fee of $1,250 for up to 25 participants.  Add $50 per person for 26-35 participants, maximum group size is 35.

MONDAY-THURSDAY-Limited Availability 

The cost to participate in a weekday overnight encampment is a flat fee of $1,000 for up to 25 people.  Add $35 per person for 26-35 participants, maximum group size is 35.

Deposit Information

When booking an Education Program at USS Pampanito, the required deposit is the program minimum charge.  For example, if a group wishes to book a Pampanito Youth Encampment on the Weekend, the minimum deposit to book is $1,250 with the remainder of the invoice due within 90 days of the program date.

This deposit is nonrefundable within 90 days of the program date. Cancellations must be made and acknowledged in writing by both parties.  If the program is cancelled due to inclement weather, closure of the USS Pampanito due to emergency maintenance & repair, natural disaster such as fire or earthquake, or otherwise a reason outside of both parties control, then full effort will be made for a complete refund or accommodating the group at a different date.

Make Deposit Check Payable To SFMNPA And Mail Deposit/Contract To:

SFMNPA ATTN: Education P.O. Box 470310 San Francisco, CA 94147-0310

Please note your group’s name and date of visit on your check!

Please contact Education Director Laura DeFelice with any questions about booking or the deposit policy.

Phone:  (415) 561-6662

Email:  [email protected]

Cancellation of a program less than 90 days prior to the program date will hold the group responsible for the full cost of the program base rate.

Notice of cancellation must be made and acknowledged in writing by both parties.

On very rare occasions, inclement weather may cause conditions hazardous enough to necessitate closure of the boat. In such cases every effort will be made to provide scheduled groups with advance notice so that they can reschedule their visit or, if they choose, cancel altogether and receive a full refund of their deposit. The Maritime Park Association will not be responsible for any other inconveniences or consequences arising from the cancellation of a group’s visit.

You are required to furnish the following:

• A current, valid insurance certificate.  If your group is a California Boy or Girl Scouts of America group we may have a copy of your Council office’s Certificate of Insurance on file.   (Important: The Certificate of Insurance should be in the amount of $1 million for bodily injury and property damage, and should list the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association as an additional insured.)
• Complete Liability forms for all participants, both adult AND minor. (these can be found in the Overnight Encampment Manual).
• Signed acknowledgement of the Safety Procedures and Rules Of Conduct. This form is also located in the Manual and due on the day of the program.
• Night Watch Roster (this is a  required  activity by the adults)

No group may board the vessel until all these forms have been received.  The Overnight Encampment Manual provides more detailed information about our program and the aforementioned forms.  You are responsible for reading it in advance of your visit and collecting all completed forms prior to check-in.

Please reach out to Education Director Laura DeFelice [email protected] (415-561-6662 ext. 5) with any questions about the required documentation.

Think of your visit to USS Pampanito as a camping trip.  Each visitor will be responsible for bringing his or her own sleeping bag, blankets, pillows, etc. The bunks onboard the submarine do not have sheets or blankets.  Camping bedding like sleeping bags are recommended.   Pier 45 is very cold at night but the submarine itself maintains a stable temperature in crew’s berthing.

Space onboard USS Pampanito is very limited, please choose carefully what you bring with you.  The watertight doors measure 2 feet by 3 feet, large rigid suitcases may have issues fitting inside the submarine.  Just like the submarine sailors used back in World War II, duffel bags or backpacks are recommended.

Check out our Virtaul Tour to get a better idea of the compartments and sleeping areas. Majority of Scouts sleep in the main Crew Berthing Area (36 bunks), parents and leaders generally sleep in the Officers Country (12 bunks), all sleeping arrangements are made by the Scout Leader and follow BSA rules.

Personal Items:

• Sleeping Mask (the berthing areas will not become completely dark due to Fire Code requirements)
• Personal Toiletries
• Warm layers (The submarine itself is fairly warm but nights next to the water become very cold)
• Flashlight or Headlamp
• Cameras (USS Pampanito is declassified; take as many photos as you like!)
• Cards, board games, books, dice, etc.

Group Items:

• First Aid Kit
• Food for the Evening and Breakfast

Contraband (Prohibited Items):

• Tobacco Products (Cigarettes or Electronic vaporizers are prohibited on and off the boat)
• Chewing gum
• Nuts with hard shells like pistachios and sunflowers (The shells can fall below decks and jam equipment)

Each group is responsible for arranging for their meals (dinner & breakfast) prior to and after the program. Because of time limitations, participants must eat prior to your arrival in the evening and after your departure in the morning, as there are no special in/out privileges for individuals once the program begins , as our pier gate is locked. Please be advised that there is no cooking allowed on board the submarine.

You are encouraged to bring prepared foods on board the submarine for snacks. When selecting foods to bring, consider ease of clean up as you will be responsible for any spills. If you bring food, you will also need to provide your own paper plates, cups, flatware, towels, etc. There is no refrigeration available, so be sure to bring a cooler for perishables. Do not bring portable gas stoves, barbecue grills, etc.  Avoid foods that fall into small crevices, such as popcorn, trail mix, etc.

Eating space is available in the Triangle Space at the forepier where there are tables and chairs.    Please note, there is no food permitted and only water allowed on the submarine and individuals may not carry open drinks through the submarine.

We will provide a 30-cup hot water urn for use in preparing hot beverages. We will also supply instant coffee, tea and cocoa (including cups) for your group–if you don’t see it already out in the crew’s mess area, just ask.

Suggestions for snacks:

• Late night snack – bring submarine sandwiches, fruit, cheese and crackers, order pizza (see our staff before ordering)
• Breakfast – muffins, sweet rolls, fruit, donuts, bagels and cream cheese

The Calendar fills quickly! Please fill out the APPLICATION to begin your reservation and see our CALENDAR for availability. 

For more information or to make reservations, please contact Education Director, Laura DeFelice

Phone:  (415) 561-6662 ext. 5

Email: [email protected]

PAMPANITO OVERNIGHT LEADER MANUAL

Does the submarine drive around like a regular boat?  Does the submarine dive?

No, the submarine is essentially a floating museum, it is permanently moored to Pier 45.  And no, it cannot dive. It has been meticulously restored and preserved for the safety of visitors and staff. It is essentially impossible to dive the submarine in its current condition.

I have concerns that some members of my group that don’t like enclosed spaces will become claustrophobic during their visit, how cramped is the submarine?

Please contact Education Director Laura DeFelice [email protected]  to discuss possible solutions.  We can’t open up the submarine or tear out the watertight doors, certain aspects of the submarine are historically accurate in that it was a cramped and claustrophobic environment for its submarine sailors on a war patrol.  But here at Pampanito we urge you to consider that it is an open museum, you are free to leave to get fresh air on the submarine, get a bunk that is close to an exit to make it easy to walk to the pier.  Also, it is an opportunity to experience sleeping on a submarine, give it a try!  Visitors are not required to sleep onboard if they are uncomfortable during the tours.

If a member of the group cannot participate, we have 360-degree panoramic photographs of every compartment and our audio tour is a free download off of our website so they can experience the submarine from the comfort of their home PC or tablet.  Visit maritime.org for further links to the photos and audio tour.

I have members of my group that have mobility issues, will they be able to participate?

We do our absolute best to try and provide full access to everyone, but unfortunately we are not wheelchair accessible.  Our seven watertight doors measure 2’x3’ and can be difficult for individuals to step through as they walk through the boat.

Please contact Education Director Laura DeFelice [email protected]  to discuss possible solutions

As per the section above, we have 360-degree panoramic photographs of every compartment and our audio tour is a free download off of our website so they can experience the submarine from the comfort of their home PC or tablet.  Visit www.maritime.org for further links to the photos and audio tour.

Is there cellular service inside the boat?  How do I charge my electronics?

No, there is no service inside the submarine.  It is recommended that you keep your phone on airplane mode to prevent the battery draining.  If you need to make a phone call or receive an important message, talk to USS Pampanito crew and they can make arrangements.  Please do not plug in your charger into random outlets.  Your charger may damage the submarine’s circuits!  ASK BEFORE YOU PLUG!

Can I make a quick trip outside Pier 45 once the program is over?

No.  We have a strict “No Ins or Outs” policy in order to keep the Pier and the submarine secure after the gates have been shut and we are closed to the public.  This is to ensure no trespassers endanger your group or the boat.  If someone needs to leave the submarine, they can return at 9am when we open the gates for business.  Obviously, if someone has an emergency they are free to leave but groups should be prepared for the duration of their stay.

Can I stay parked after 9am?  We just wanted to make a quick trip to the…

Unfortunately, no.  We have limited spaces that are reserved for staff who will rotate in the evening and again in the morning.

I have a group size under the program minimum of 25, can I pay a lower rate?

We charge a program minimum for 25 to cover staffing costs, maintenance, wear and tear on the boat, etc.

I have a group that is over 35, can my group sleep on the floor?

Unfortunately, 35 is the absolute limit as per Fire Code regulations.  If you have more than 35 we recommend booking two programs.

١٣ من الحلقات

An audio tour of USS Pampanito, a WW II submarine museum and memorial in San Francisco, California.

USS Pampanito Submarine Audio Tour San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

• المجتمع والثقافة
• ٤٫٥ • ٢٠ من التقييمات
• ٩ نوفمبر ٢٠٠٧

After Battery Compartment

A tour of USS Pampanito's After Battery Compartment

• ٢ من الدقائق

After Engine Room

A tour of USS Pampanito's After Engine Room

After Torpedo Room

A tour of USS Pampanito's After Torpedo Room

Conning Tower

A tour of USS Pampanito's Conning Tower

Control Room

A tour of USS Pampanito's Control Room

• ٣ من الدقائق

Crew's Mess

A tour of USS Pampanito's Crew's Mess

• Copyright ℗ and © 2007, San Francisco Maritime National Park Association

مراجعات العملاء

٢٠ من التقييمات

Great tribute!

This is awesome! Fantastic to hear the stories of the boat from vets that were there.

A wonderful addition to the tour of the Balao class submarine. It's neat that you can bring it along on your own; $2 to rent the audio tour at the site.

أفضل برامج البودكاست في المجتمع والثقافة