Photo Credit: SF Maritime Natl. Park Assoc. / Richard Pekelney
During World War II, the USS Pampanito made six
patrols in the Pacific, sinking six Japanese ships and damaging four
others. The Pampanito, a Balao class Fleet submarine, was built
in 1943 at a cost of $6 million, and was one of the most advanced fighting
systems of her
day. She was put
in "mothballs" after
the war, but was used again between 1961 and 1970 as part of a shore-side
training program.
Today, the
USS Pampanito is one of the most popular historic
vessels in the country. Opened to the public in 1982 as a museum and
memorial, the Pampanito hosts over 250,000 visitors a year. The
submarine's appearance
and condition have been restored to a specific point in time—summer
1945—to represent the height of US submarine development
during WW II. Much of
the equipment is operational. With the exception of the hatch and ladders
used by visitors to enter and leave her, the Pampanito is essentially
as she was in 1945. The USS Pampanito is a National Historic Landmark.
Location
The USS Pampanito is berthed at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf. Driving directions can be found at the Maritime Park Association Web site, but taking public transportation to Fisherman's Wharf is strongly encouraged.
Hours of operation Pampanito is open to the public seven days a week: Sunday–Thursday,
from 9 a.m. until
6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Summer
hours are extended; check the Maritime
Park Association Web
site for a schedule.
Admission
Adults
$8
Seniors
$6
Military with current ID
$4
Children (ages 6-12)
$4
Children younger than 6 years old are admitted free with an adult. A family
ticket, which admits two adults and up to four children under 18, can be
purchased for $22.
Contact information
For more information about the USS Pampanito, call the San Francisco Maritime Park Association at (415) 561-6662, or send e-mail to pampanito@maritime.org.
Disabled access
Due to the historic nature of the ship, wheelchair and stroller accessibility is unavailable.
Special considerations
Tours aboard the Pampanito are self-guided.
Weather at Fisherman's Wharf can be foggy and windy at any time of the year. Dressing in layers is suggested.
Additional information
Visit the USS Pampanito Web site.
Please note
Cost, hours of operation, or other information about this attraction is subject to change without notice. We suggest you confirm with the attraction prior to your visit.
