Visiting the Pearl Harbor USS Arizona and Bowfin Submarine tour is a must-do for anyone interested in World War II history. This immersive experience takes guests on a journey through the fateful events of December 7, 1941, honoring the brave souls lost that day. From the hallowed USS Arizona Memorial to the awe-inspiring Bowfin Submarine, this tour offers a profound connection to the past, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made. But the insights gained go beyond the tour itself, extending to the very heart of Honolulu’s historical landscape.
Key Points
- The tour covers visits to the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of 1,177 crewmen, and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, which focuses on WWII submarine history.
- Guests receive an in-person briefing at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center and a narrated drive through Honolulu, including the National Memorial Cemetery.
- The tour provides an immersive historical experience with flexible cancellation and payment options, as well as wheelchair accessibility.
- Exhibits at the tour sites include the "Road to War" and "Attack" galleries, showcasing photos and artifacts from WWII.
- The USS Bowfin Submarine, a WWII-era vessel that conducted nine war patrols in the Pacific, can be explored by visitors at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a comprehensive experience, with prices starting from $129.00 per person.
Lasting 6 to 7 hours, including travel time, the tour provides a flexible cancellation policy – cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy – cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, making it a convenient option.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, some vehicles may not accommodate mobility devices, so guests should contact the operator to make arrangements.
Looking for more options in Honolulu? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Inclusions and Highlights
Included in the tour is a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of 1,177 crewmen who perished during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Visitors can also explore the USS Bowfin Submarine & Museum, learning about the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force during WWII.
The tour provides an in-person briefing at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center and allows guests to skip the line through a separate entrance.
Passengers will also enjoy a narrated drive through Honolulu, passing the National Memorial Cemetery.
With free cancellation and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers an immersive historical experience.
Historical Significance
Visitors can pay homage to the fallen soldiers at the USS Arizona Memorial, the final resting place of 1,177 crewmen who perished during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
The tour explores the Pearl Harbor historic sites and the attack’s significance, educating guests on the "Road to War" and "Attack" exhibit galleries. These display photos and artifacts from WWII, providing a deeper understanding of the pivotal moment in history.
At the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, guests can experience the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force during WWII, learning about the USS Bowfin’s nine wartime patrols in the Pacific.
USS Bowfin Submarine Details
The USS Bowfin, a WWII-era submarine, was nearly 312 feet long and displaced 2,415 tons. It conducted nine war patrols in the Pacific between 1943 and 1945.
The Bowfin’s ten torpedo tubes and rack space for 14 reloads made it a formidable vessel. On the surface, it could reach speeds of 20.25 knots, while submerged it traveled at 8.75 knots.
Today, visitors can explore the Bowfin Submarine Museum and learn about the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force during World War II, gaining insight into the vessel’s significant historical role.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information for Participants
No food, drinks, or large bags are allowed on the tour. Participants should only bring cell phones and items that fit in their pockets. This helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The tour company recommends:
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Contacting them after booking to arrange for any mobility device accommodations if needed.
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Checking the customer rating of 4.8/5 based on 4 reviews, highlighting insightful experiences and beautiful visits.
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Arriving on time and prepared to fully enjoy the historical significance of the Pearl Harbor sites.
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Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial
As visitors approach the USS Arizona Memorial, they are immediately struck by the somber atmosphere and the gravity of the site. The memorial sits atop the sunken USS Arizona, the final resting place for 1,177 crewmen who perished in the attack on Pearl Harbor. Visitors are invited to reflect on the sacrifice of these brave individuals through a powerful exhibit and a boat ride to the memorial itself.
| Exhibit Features | Takeaways |
| — | — |
| Artifacts and multimedia displays | Understand the events of December 7, 1941 |
| Personal stories of those who served | Feel the weight of the historical significance |
| Reverent atmosphere for reflection | Appreciate the ultimate sacrifice of the crew |
Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial is a profound and moving experience, allowing visitors to honor the memory of those who lost their lives on that fateful day.
Exploring the USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum
After visiting the somber USS Arizona Memorial, guests can explore the captivating USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum.
This World War II submarine, known as the "Pearl Harbor Avenger," embarked on nine successful patrols in the Pacific. Visitors can step inside the 312-foot vessel and experience what life was like for its 80-man crew.
The museum also features exhibits on the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force during WWII, providing a deeper understanding of this crucial part of the war effort.
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Tour the interior of the USS Bowfin submarine
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Learn about the submarine’s wartime history and achievements
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Discover artifacts and exhibits in the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
Honolulu’s Historical Sites and National Memorial Cemetery
The tour also takes guests on a narrated drive through Honolulu, passing by the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. This solemn site, also known as "Punchbowl," honors the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the history of the cemetery and its significance.
| Memorial Type | Number of Interments | Notable Burials |
| — | — | — |
| Graves | Over 53,000 | Medal of Honor recipients, U.S. Presidents |
| Columbarium | Over 13,000 | Military personnel, dependents, and veterans |
| Memorial Wall | Over 28,000 | Those missing in action or lost at sea |
The tour provides an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served and protect our nation’s freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages on the Tour?
No, visitors are not allowed to bring food, drinks, or large bags on the tour. Only cell phones and items that fit in pockets are permitted. This policy helps maintain the safety and cleanliness of the historic sites.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking around the various exhibits and memorial sites, but visitors are provided with a shuttle service to transport them between locations. Guests should wear comfortable shoes for the day’s activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions or requirements. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the length and historical nature of the content.
Can I Take Photographs Inside the USS Arizona Memorial?
Visitors can take photographs inside the USS Arizona Memorial, but they’re asked to be respectful and avoid using flash. Photography is permitted to help commemorate the site and preserve memories of this powerful historic landmark.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?
There’s no minimum number of participants required for this tour. Travelers can book individually or as a group, and the tour will operate regardless of group size. The price remains the same per person.
The Sum Up
The Pearl Harbor USS Arizona & Bowfin Submarine tour offers an immersive dive into World War II history. Visitors can pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, explore the USS Bowfin Submarine, and discover Honolulu’s historical sites, providing a poignant and educational experience. With flexible booking and accessibility, this tour is a must for history enthusiasts seeking a profound connection to the past.
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