Oahu: Pearl Harbor Tour With USS Arizona Memorial

Exploring the somber history of Pearl Harbor is a must-do activity for visitors to Oahu. This comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the events of December 7, 1941 and the lasting impact of the attack. Guests will have the chance to visit the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, where they can pay their respects to the fallen, and step aboard the Battleship Missouri, the site of Japan’s formal surrender. With the chance to explore the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument and the serene National Memorial Cemetery, this tour provides a profound and educational experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

Key Points

• The Pearl Harbor tour from Waikiki explores the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, including the iconic USS Arizona Memorial.
• The tour includes a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, where visitors learn about the attack and pay respects to the fallen.
• The tour also features a visit to the Battleship Missouri, where visitors can explore the ship’s history and see the surrender deck.
• The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, bag storage, and an educational and emotional experience without the burden of carrying luggage.
• The tour may be subject to changes in the itinerary due to factors beyond the tour operator’s control, such as weather or maintenance issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day Pearl Harbor tour from Waikiki takes visitors to explore the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, including the iconic USS Arizona Memorial.

Guests will take a boat tour to the USS Arizona, where they’ll pay respects at the memorial and learn about the historic events of December 7, 1941.

The tour also includes a visit to the Battleship Missouri, where participants can explore this legendary WWII ship.

Throughout the day, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the significance of these sites and the broader context of World War II.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless way to experience the powerful history of Pearl Harbor.

Visit WWII Valor in the Pacific

The first stop on the Pearl Harbor tour is the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, where visitors can explore the historical significance of the events that unfolded on December 7, 1941.

The national monument features four key elements:

1. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, which provides an overview of the attack through exhibits and video presentations.

2. The USS Arizona Memorial, which spans the sunken battleship and serves as a tomb for the 1,177 crew members who perished on that fateful day.

3. The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, which allows visitors to step aboard a World War II submarine.

4. The Pacific Aviation Museum, which showcases vintage aircraft and the history of aviation in the Pacific Theater.

Boat Tour to USS Arizona Memorial

After visiting the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, visitors typically board a Navy-operated boat for a short 15-minute journey to the USS Arizona Memorial.

This iconic structure sits atop the sunken battleship that was attacked on December 7, 1941, marking the event that drew the United States into World War II.

During the boat tour, visitors learn about the Pearl Harbor attack and the sacrifices made that fateful day.

Upon arrival at the memorial, guests have the opportunity to view the names of the 1,177 USS Arizona crew members who lost their lives.

The somberness of the site allows visitors to reflect on the profound impact of the attack and honor the brave men who perished.

Tour of Battleship Missouri

Following the moving experience at the USS Arizona Memorial, visitors next get to explore the legendary Battleship Missouri.

This mighty ‘Mighty Mo’ served in three wars and was the site of Japan’s formal surrender that ended World War II. Guests can step aboard the historic vessel and walk the decks where momentous events unfolded, gaining a deeper understanding of the ship’s storied past.

The tour of the Battleship Missouri includes:

• Viewing the surrender deck where Japan officially capitulated.
• Exploring the ship’s bridge and navigational controls.
• Seeing the massive 16-inch guns that once terrorized enemy forces.
• Learning about the Missouri’s vital role in the Korean and Gulf Wars.

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Tour Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation to and from the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites.

Guided tours and access to all the exhibits are also included, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the historical significance of the sites.

Plus, bag storage is available for $6 per item, offering a secure place to store belongings during the tour. Guests can focus on the educational and emotional experience without the burden of carrying their luggage.

The inclusions of this tour ensure a seamless and enriching journey through the Pearl Harbor sites, enabling visitors to honor the past and deepen their understanding of this pivotal moment in history.

Visiting National Memorial Cemetery

While the tour doesn’t include a drive-through at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, visitors can explore the grounds on their own before or after the scheduled Pearl Harbor tour activities. The cemetery, also known as Punchbowl, is a solemn and picturesque resting place for fallen American service members.

Visitors can:

1. Stroll through the serene grounds and marvel at the impressive architecture.
2. Visit the memorial’s exhibits to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
3. Pay their respects at the graves of those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
4. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Honolulu.

External Factors and Time Constraints

External factors can sometimes impact the tour’s ability to visit the USS Arizona Memorial. The National Park Service, which manages the memorial, may temporarily close it due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Plus, time constraints on the full-day tour may limit the opportunity to fully explore the Battleship Missouri, as visitors need to adhere to the tour schedule.

While the tour give you a comprehensive Pearl Harbor experience, certain factors beyond the tour operator’s control may affect the itinerary. Guests should be prepared for potential changes and understand that the tour’s primary focus is honoring the historic significance of the sites visited, even if time spent at each location is limited.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This gives visitors the peace of mind to book their tour without worrying about unexpected changes in their plans.

1. Full refund available up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
2. No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.
3. Rescheduling is permitted, subject to availability.
4. No-shows or late arrivals aren’t eligible for refunds.

This cancellation policy ensures that guests can plan their Pearl Harbor experience with confidence, while also allowing the tour operator to effectively manage their operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Boat Tour to the USS Arizona Memorial Last?

The boat tour to the USS Arizona Memorial typically lasts around 20 minutes. During this time, visitors can pay respects at the memorial and learn about the historic events that occurred on December 7, 1941.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the USS Arizona Memorial tour, but children under 4 years old may not be able to fully participate. Most tour operators welcome visitors of all ages to this historic site.

Is Photography Allowed at the Pearl Harbor Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the Pearl Harbor sites, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with tour guides or staff for specific guidelines before taking photos during their visit.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the Pearl Harbor tour, though some restrictions may apply. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific policies before the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The Pearl Harbor tour is wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility issues can participate in the tour, as it provides accommodations such as accessible transportation and facilities at the historical sites. However, some areas may have limited accessibility.

Recap

This Pearl Harbor tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the historical significance of the events on December 7, 1941.

From the iconic USS Arizona Memorial to the Battleship Missouri, the tour provides an opportunity to learn about the valor and sacrifice of those who served during World War II.

The inclusion of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific adds a somber and reflective element to the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby