Exploring the history of Pearl Harbor is a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time. From the iconic USS Arizona Memorial to the awe-inspiring USS Bowfin Submarine, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into the events that shaped the course of World War II. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, guests can walk in the footsteps of those who lived through the fateful day of December 7, 1941, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made. But the true power of this tour lies in its ability to evoke emotions and inspire reflection on the enduring lessons of the past. What secrets might these hallowed grounds still hold?
Key Points
- This 6-hour tour offers skip-the-line access and a live guide to explore the USS Arizona Memorial and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum at Pearl Harbor.
- Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the December 7, 1941 attack through the exhibits at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
- The USS Arizona Memorial is a poignant tribute to the 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives, providing an opportunity for reflection on the sacrifices made.
- The USS Bowfin Submarine, measuring nearly 312 feet long and capable of reaching 20.25 knots on the surface, offers insights into its impressive WWII specifications and history.
- Convenient pickups from West Oahu and Ko Olina locations are available, eliminating the need for parking and ensuring a hassle-free start to the day.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This 6-hour tour offers visitors the chance to explore two iconic landmarks of Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.
You’ll skip the lines with separate entrance access and enjoy the insights of a live tour guide throughout the experience.
The tour includes tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial boat ride and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, providing an in-depth look at the fateful events of December 7, 1941, and the submarine’s impressive WWII history.
With gratuities covered and convenient pickups available, this comprehensive tour is the perfect way to learn about the history and significance of these hallowed sites.
Pearl Harbor Visitor Center
Exploring the ‘Road to War‘ and ‘Attack‘ exhibit galleries at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the fateful day of December 7, 1941. The galleries offer a comprehensive look at the political tensions and military strategies that culminated in the devastating surprise attack.
Visitors can enjoy the historical narrative, examining artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the past to life. The experience is further enhanced by a thought-provoking short film that captures the emotions and impact of that day.
The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is a poignant and educational gateway to the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.
USS Arizona Memorial
Visitors can pay their respects at the final resting place of the USS Arizona’s 1,177 crewmen, who perished during the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The USS Arizona Memorial stands as a poignant tribute, allowing visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made and the profound impact of that fateful day.
The memorial features a powerful display that encapsulates the spirit of the fallen. A 3×3 table offers deeper meaning:
Solemnity | Reverence | Remembrance |
---|---|---|
Resilience | Resolve | Reconciliation |
Unity | Valor | Victory |
Through this moving experience, guests gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and the enduring legacy of the USS Arizona.
USS Bowfin Submarine
The USS Bowfin Submarine, a formidable vessel that measured nearly 312 feet in length and displaced 2,415 tons when submerged, served valiantly during World War II, embarking on nine perilous patrols in the Pacific Ocean.
This submarine, equipped with 10 torpedo tubes and space for 14 reloads, could reach impressive speeds of 20.25 knots on the surface and 8.75 knots when submerged.
Visitors to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum can explore its storied history and marvel at its impressive capabilities, which include:
- Carrying a crew of approximately 80 officers and enlisted men
- Being able to stay submerged for extended periods
- Conducting daring attacks against enemy ships and submarines
- Surviving the hazards of wartime operations in the Pacific theater
Vessel Specifications
The USS Bowfin, a formidable WWII submarine, boasted impressive vessel specifications that enabled its successful operations in the Pacific theater.
Measuring nearly 312 feet long and with a submerged displacement of 2,415 tons, the Bowfin was a force to be reckoned with.
Equipped with 10 torpedo tubes and space for 14 reloads, it could unleash devastating attacks on enemy ships. The submarine was also capable of reaching impressive speeds – 20.25 knots on the surface and 8.75 knots when submerged.
With these capabilities, the Bowfin went on 9 successful war patrols, playing a crucial role in the Allied victory during World War II.
Tour Inclusions
The 6-hour tour includes:
Tickets for the USS Arizona Memorial boat ride and admission to the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, along with skip-the-line access through a separate entrance and a live tour guide.
Exploring the ‘Road to War’ and ‘Attack’ exhibit galleries at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, and watching a short film about the events of Pearl Harbor.
Visiting the final resting place of the USS Arizona’s 1,177 crewmen.
Exploring the nearly 312-foot long USS Bowfin Submarine, which went on 9 war patrols in the Pacific during WWII.
Learning about the submarine’s impressive specifications, including its 10 torpedo tubes and top speeds of over 20 knots.
Pickup Locations
Pickups for the 6-hour tour are available from West Oahu and Ko Olina locations, allowing visitors convenient access to the Pearl Harbor historic sites.
Whether you’re staying in West Oahu or the nearby Ko Olina resort area, the tour provider offers a hassle-free way to get to Pearl Harbor. This eliminates the need to find parking or worry about transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the tour’s educational and historical experiences.
The pickup service ensures a smooth start to your day, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through the sites that shaped a pivotal moment in American history. All you need to do is be ready at your designated pickup point, and the tour staff will handle the rest.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Tour Guidelines
Carefully following the tour guidelines ensures visitors have a smooth and enjoyable experience at the historic Pearl Harbor sites. Leaving large bags and outside food or drinks behind, guests can focus on seeing the tour’s captivating narratives and poignant memorials.
With gratuities included, travelers need not worry about additional costs, allowing them to fully engage with the tour’s educational and reflective components.
Key guidelines to keep in mind include:
- No food, drinks, luggage, or large bags allowed on the tour
- Skip-the-line access through a separate entrance
- Live tour guide provided throughout the 6-hour experience
- Pickups available from select locations in West Oahu and Ko Olina
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Private Oahu Circle Island Tour
- Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona & Hawaiian History | Small Group Tour
- Beautiful Colors of Hawaii Photo Tour
- Arizona Memorial Pearl Harbor & Honolulu City Tour From Waikiki
- Grand Pearl Harbor + City Tour
- Honolulu Airport, Cruise Port and Waikiki Hotels Private Transfer
- Full-Day Guided Private Tour
- Honolulu Hotel, Airport, Port – Private Transfer (1-5 Passengers)
- Oahu: Grand Circle Island Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour
- Oahu Dolphin Watch With Turtle Snorkel & Water Slide
- Oahu Island Photography Tour
- Small Group North Shore Circle Island Tour Oahu
- USS Missouri and USS Arizona Pearl Harbor Private Tour
- Departure Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal
- Shaxi Diamond Head Hiking and Waikiki Tour
Recap
The Pearl Harbor tour offers a comprehensive experience that delves into the historic events of December 7, 1941.
Visitors can explore the USS Arizona Memorial, pay respects to the fallen crew, and discover the impressive WWII submarine Bowfin.
With insights from a live guide and the ability to skip the lines, this tour provides an immersive and informative look into the Pacific theater’s naval operations.