Uss Pampanito

USS Pampanito Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Francisco Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to USS Pampanito and Its Significance

Anchored at San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, the USS Pampanito stands as a living monument to American naval history and World War II valor. Commissioned in 1943, this Balao-class submarine completed six war patrols in the Pacific, earning six battle stars and playing a crucial role in Allied victory. Today, Pampanito is preserved as a National Historic Landmark and operates as a museum ship, providing an immersive experience into the technology, daily life, and stories of the U.S. Navy’s “Silent Service.” Visitors can explore authentically restored compartments, operational systems, and participate in guided or self-guided tours, including overnight stays in the original crew bunks. Its location at Pier 45 offers convenient access to other maritime and historical attractions in San Francisco (Wikipedia, Trips Into History, When In Your State).

Survivors of Rakuyo Maru, former British and Australian POWs, rescued by US Navy submarine USS Pampanito crew

Survivors of Rakuyo Maru rescued by USS Pampanito crew

Two Australian survivors rescued from Japanese hellship Rakuyo Maru by USN submarine USS Pampanito

USS Pampanito Balao-class submarine docked at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco

USS Pampanito submarine docked at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco

Preserved USS Pampanito submarine docked in San Francisco with SS Jeremiah O'Brien moored behind

Discover the USS Pampanito: A Historic WWII Submarine Museum in San Francisco
Historical Overview
Transformation into a Museum Ship
- Preservation and Public Opening
- Restoration and Authenticity
Visiting the USS Pampanito: Essential Information
Educational and Cultural Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Visitor Tips
References

Discover the USS Pampanito: A Historic WWII Submarine Museum

Step aboard the USS Pampanito, a meticulously restored Balao-class submarine that offers a firsthand look at the challenges and triumphs of WWII submarine service. As a National Historic Landmark docked at Pier 45, Pampanito invites visitors to explore its original compartments, learn about undersea warfare, and appreciate the ingenuity and sacrifice of the American submariners.

Historical Overview

Origins and Construction

USS Pampanito (SS-383) was built at Portsmouth Navy Yard in Maine, with her keel laid on March 15, 1943, and commissioned on November 6, 1943 (Wikipedia). She featured advanced hull strength and operational capabilities that set the Balao class apart in the Pacific campaign.

World War II Service

Patrols and Achievements

After joining the Pacific Fleet in February 1944, Pampanito undertook six war patrols between March 1944 and August 1945:

First Patrol: Targeted enemy shipping near Saipan and Guam; survived depth charge attacks (Wikipedia).
Second Patrol: Operated off the Japanese home islands, damaging enemy vessels and narrowly avoiding attack by a Japanese submarine (Wikipedia).
Third Patrol: As part of a wolfpack, Pampanito sank the SS Rakuyō Maru—tragically carrying Allied POWs—then participated in the rescue of 73 survivors. Also sank the tanker Zuihō Maru (Wikipedia).
Fourth to Sixth Patrols: Continued targeting Japanese shipping in the South China Sea and Gulf of Siam, sinking several cargo and passenger vessels and disrupting vital supply lines (Wikipedia).

In total, Pampanito was credited with sinking six ships and damaging four, accounting for over 27,000 tons of enemy shipping, and earning six battle stars (Wikipedia). The submarine’s broom, a symbol of a “clean sweep,” flew proudly after successful patrols.

Postwar Service and Decommissioning

After WWII, Pampanito was decommissioned at Mare Island in December 1945, later serving as a Naval Reserve Training ship before being struck from the Navy Register in 1971 (Wikipedia).

Transformation into a Museum Ship

Preservation and Public Opening

Recognizing her historical value, the Navy transferred Pampanito to the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association in 1976. Following restoration, she opened as a museum ship in 1982 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986 (WhichMuseum).

Restoration and Authenticity

Curators and volunteers have restored Pampanito to her late-1945 configuration, maintaining operating systems such as torpedo tubes, periscopes, and even the crew’s ice-cream maker (SanFranciscoBay.com). The submarine has undergone multiple dry dockings to ensure her preservation and safety (Wikipedia).

Visiting the USS Pampanito: Essential Information

Location and Directions

USS Pampanito is berthed at Pier 45, Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133. Easily accessible via public transit (F-Line streetcar, Muni buses), with nearby parking (limited during peak times).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices

Typical Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (last entry at 4:30 PM); check the official website for seasonal or holiday variations.
Ticket Prices: Adults: $15 | Seniors (65+): $12 | Youth (6–17): $10 | Children under 6: Free.
Audio Tour: Available for a small additional fee.
Discounts: Military/veteran rates with ID.

Advance ticket purchase is recommended during busy periods (When In Your State).

Accessibility

Due to historic design, the submarine is not wheelchair accessible. Narrow passageways and steep ladders may be challenging for some visitors. Virtual tours and accessible exhibits are available for those with mobility limitations.

Tours and Special Programs

Self-Guided Audio Tours: Available in multiple languages.
Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable volunteers; advance booking recommended for groups.
Overnight Programs: For youth groups and schools, including a “sleepover” in crew bunks.
Special Events: Veterans Day ceremonies, living history weekends, and educational workshops.

Photography

Photography is encouraged. Please avoid flash to preserve sensitive areas and be mindful of other guests (When In Your State).

Educational and Cultural Significance

Museum Experience

Pampanito is one of San Francisco’s premier maritime museums, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually (SanFranciscoBay.com). Audio and docent-led tours provide deep historical context, bringing to life personal stories from the submarine’s service (WhichMuseum).

Living History and Community

The USS Pampanito Amateur Radio Club operates the vessel’s original radio room on select weekends, connecting history buffs and technology enthusiasts (Wikipedia).

Pop Culture and Recognition

The submarine appeared in the 1996 film “Down Periscope,” marking her first passage under the Golden Gate Bridge in 50 years (WhichMuseum).

Nearby Attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf

Combine your visit to Pampanito with these San Francisco historical sites:

SS Jeremiah O’Brien: Liberty ship and fellow WWII veteran at Pier 45.
Musée Mécanique: Vintage arcade museum.
Hyde Street Pier: Home to historic ships and part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.
Pier 39: Famous sea lions and waterfront shopping.

Fisherman’s Wharf offers abundant dining, shopping, and entertainment, making it easy to plan a full day of exploration.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Check official hours before your trip.
Arrive early for fewer crowds.
Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes due to steep ladders and metal decking.
Supervise children closely; strollers are not permitted.
Make use of the audio tour for a richer experience.
Explore nearby attractions for a comprehensive historical outing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the USS Pampanito’s visiting hours?
A: Generally, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily; check the official website for updates.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults $15, seniors $12, youth (6–17) $10, children under 6 free.

Q: Is the submarine wheelchair accessible?
A: Due to its design, it is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both audio and docent-led tours are available.

Q: Are there restrooms or food on board?
A: No, but restrooms are on the pier, and Fisherman’s Wharf has many dining options.

Q: Can I volunteer or donate to support the Pampanito?
A: Yes! Visit the Maritime Park Association’s site for details.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

Pampanito’s preservation relies on routine dry-docking, daily maintenance, and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Restoration is carried out to late-1945 standards, with authentic equipment and operational systems. Community support via donations and volunteering sustains ongoing conservation (SanFranciscoBay.com).

Plan Your Visit Today

Experience living history aboard the USS Pampanito—one of San Francisco’s most significant historical sites. For tickets, program details, and up-to-date visitor information, visit the official website.

Internal links: Check out related guides on “Top San Francisco Maritime Museums” and “Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf Attractions” on our website.

Visuals and Media

We recommend including:

Photos of Pampanito docked at Pier 45, the interior control room, and crew quarters.
Images from guided tours and special events.
Historical WWII photos. Alt text examples: “USS Pampanito submarine docked at San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf”; “Interior control room of USS Pampanito”

Summary

USS Pampanito stands as a testament to courage, innovation, and the enduring spirit of American submariners. As a fully restored WWII submarine museum, it offers a hands-on educational experience and a powerful memorial to the “silent warriors” of the Pacific. With accessible visiting hours, varied tours, and a vibrant Fisherman’s Wharf location, Pampanito is an essential stop for history lovers and families alike. For the latest information, ticket purchases, and upcoming events, visit the Maritime Park Association’s official page.