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Battleship North Carolina

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Battleship North Carolina, Wilmington

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Battleship North Carolina

Explore the refurbished WWII Battleship starting with the Observation Deck. The self-guided tour features nine levels of living spaces, mess decks, gun turrets, powder storage, sick bay, and more. Serving as a memorial for the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war, the Battleship is open every day. This historic adventure is one you don't want to miss. Joint them for special events like ghost hunts and more. The SECU Memorial Walkway around the Battleship is now open Battleship hours and is accessible and free to the public.

• Parking: Free, Motorcoach rv
• Pet policy: No
• Group friendly
• Tours: Guided, Self guided

Group Facilities

Capacity: 100+ Meeting rooms: <5

#1 Battleship Road Wilmington, NC 28401

(910) 399-9100 www.battleshipnc.com Dena J. Merlino Scott [email protected]

Local Information

Wilmington and beaches convention & visitors bureau.

Ends: 6/15/2024

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(910) 399-9100 - www.battleshipnc.com

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Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com .

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Man the guns of the world’s greatest sea weapon

Visitors to coastal North Carolina can man the guns of what was, at the time of her commissioning, considered the world’s greatest sea weapon. The Battleship North Carolina is moored near downtown Wilmington’s historic river district and its island beaches. The ship is one of the most popular attractions in the state, having fought in every major naval offensive in the Pacific during World War II. Visitors can walk the decks and experience the daily life and fierce combat faced by the crew. Self-guided tours of the ship are available daily and special programs allow visitors to discover and build a personal connection through behind-the-scenes tours, in-depth programs of the ship’s inner-workings, reenactments, special programs for professional military education and more. Many people believe the Battleship North Carolina to be haunted, so it’s no surprise that one of the most popular nearby events is the Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington, a nationally acclaimed tour of the city’s most actively haunted homes and burial grounds, complete with eerie tales and true paranormal stories.

Battleship North Carolina

Battleship North Carolina, Battleship Road Northeast, Wilmington, NC

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USS NORTH CAROLINA

History Museum

Street Address: 1 Battleship Road Wilmington, NC 28401

Telephone: 910.399.9100

HOURS & TICKETING

Under typical circumstances, the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is open every day of the year, including all holidays, as the Ship serves as a memorial.  On Christmas Day the Ship opens at noon. 

No advance reservations are required. Tickets are sold on site at the Battleship.

Ticket Sales

8:00 am – 4:00 pm until further notice.  Ship closes at 5:00 pm.

The tour is self-guided and is well-marked so that you can tour at your own pace.  We recommend allowing at least two hours for the tour, but for the true enthusiast, you can spend much more time than that.  Click here for Guided Tours. 

Adults: 12 & over: $14.00* Seniors:  65 & over: $10.00* Military:  Active or retired, military spouses & dependents, with ID cards: $10.00* Children:  6 through 11: $6.00* Children:  5 & under: Free

Friends of the Battleship Members:   Free

Ticket sales end one hour before closing.  Click here for details on policies regarding cancellations and refunds.

The Battleship gladly accepts cash, VISA, MasterCard or Discover.  It does not accept personal checks.  It does not accept  cash at this time. 

GROUP ADMISSION

For groups of 10 or more visitors paying by a single source, the per-person group rates are as follows:

Adults:  12 & over: $10.00* Children:  6-11: $5.00* Children:  5 & under: Free

Groups are encouraged to make reservations to ensure receiving the discounted rate. To make a reservation or to receive more information, please call 910-399-9101.

ADA (AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT)

If assistance is required, 1 accompanying adult is admitted free with each ADA admission. These prices apply to visitors arriving as part of groups or as individuals.

Adults: 12 & over: $6.00* Children: 6-11: $3.00* Children: 5 & under: Free

USS NORTH CAROLINA (BB-55)

World War II was called “the good war“ – the war of good versus evil. But while the United States and its Allies were victorious, that victory was bitter-sweet.  The USS NORTH CAROLINA (BB-55), 1941-1961, played an important role.

Aerial Video © Lifted.Pictures

The price of freedom was high. No one knows exactly how many were killed, wounded or missing between September 1939 and September 1945, but death toll estimates ranged upwardly to 22 million. Financial costs exceeded one trillion dollars. (The United States spent about $250 million per day on the War – ten times the amount it had spent on all its previous wars put together.) Property damage estimates exceeded $239 trillion. The war involved 50 countries, and its effects were felt by all nations.

The War’s battlefields spanned the globe. Major battles occurred on the soils of Asia, Europe and Africa, as well as on the waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean. Men died in the jungles of Pacific islands, in the hills of China, in the deserts of Libya, and on the plains of France.

World War II, the most destructive war in history, began on September 1, 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany. The war ended on September 2, 1945 with Japan’s surrender after the atomic bomb drops on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and exactly three years eight months, and twenty-two days after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor.

THE VJ OBSERVANCE

September 2, 1945 marked the end of World War II.  President Harry Truman proclaimed it VJ (Victory Over Japan) Day.

In 1995, the USS NORTH CAROLINA Battleship Memorial, located in Wilmington, North Carolina was selected as one of five designated host sites for the United States’ observance of the fiftieth anniversary of VJ Day.  It is a fitting honor in that the USS NORTH CAROLINA was the most decorated United States Battleship of World War II ; and today is a State memorial to the veterans of that War, enshrined with the names of over 10,000 North Carolinians from all branches of military service who gave their lives.

Each VJ Day Observance is a time to pause and reflect, a time to rejoice, a time to give thanks for the blessing of freedom, a time to honor our veterans and a tie to remember their fallen comrades.

From her keel (backbone) to the crow’s nest, the USS NORTH CAROLINA is nearly 200 feet high or about the height of a 14-story building . From bow to stern, she is more than 728 feet long or nearly the length of two and one-half city blocks.  Her width is 108 feet.

It took six years from the authorization to build the USS NORTH CAROLINA until she was “Pacific bound.” Authorization to build her, along with her sister ship, the USS WASHINGTON, was contained in an act of Congress passed June 3, 1936. Prior to her construction, the Brooklyn Navy Yard had to be expanded and reinforced.  The keel of BB55, the USS NORTH CAROLINA, was laid on October 27, 1937. It was the first new battleship keel to be laid by the United States Navy in 16 years.

It took hundreds of workmen almost four years to construct her. She is built of thousands of tons of steel and displaces over 40,000 tons when loaded.

While she was under construction, World War II commenced. She was launched on June 13, 1940, and commissioned on April 9, 1941 under the command of Captain Olaf. M. Hustvedt.

USS NORTH CAROLINA fires her after 40.6 cm/45 guns during her shakedown cruise, June 1941. © U.S. Navy

40 MONTHS IN COMBAT

When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, the Battleship NC was in New York.  Training was accelerated and on June 5, 1942, she was “Pacific bound.”  She spend 40 months in combat, and according to the Japanese propaganda broadcaster “Tokyo Rose,” was sunk six different times.

Truth is, the USS NORTH CAROLINA steamed 307,000 miles during her wartime duty, consuming more than two million gallons of fuel. She was a mighty ship. Her powerful guns could send a 2,700 pound shell through the air for more than twenty miles.

USS NECHES (AO-47) refueling USS NORTH CAROLINA in the mid-Pacific Ocean, November 30, 1944. © U.S. Navy

She distinguished herself in the Pacific Theater of World War II by engaging in every major campaign from the time of her arrival at Pearl Harbor in July of 1942 until the war’s end. She fought from Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands through the Gilberts, Marshalls, Carolines, New Guinea and the Marianas; the Philippines, Iwo Jima and Okinawa; to Japan and to victory in Tokyo Bay. She earned fifteen battlestars – more than any other United States battleship.

USS NORTH CAROLINA firing a salvo at a land target during the Battle of Okinawa, April-June, 1945. © U.S. Navy

During World War II, the USS NORTH CAROLINA survived a torpedo hit on September 15, 1942 and a typhoon on December 18, 1944. In September 1961, she was saved from the scrap metal dealers thanks to the citizens of North Carolina.

BATTLESHIP NC’S BRAVE CREW

Nearly 2,000 officers and men, including a detachment of United States Marines, were needed to run the sophisticated and complicated equipment aboard  the USS NORTH CAROLINA. The men were divided into 22 departments and either were directly involved in warfare, or worked in a support capacity to keep the mini-city afloat.  See the many WWII naval combat artifacts on the ship.

© Lifted.Pictures

THE MEMORIAL

“Save Our Ship” became the cry of North Carolinians when the United States Navy announced its intention to scrap the USS NORTH CAROLINA in 1961.

Saving the ship as a State war memorial became a reality thanks to the visionary leadership of James S. Craig, Jr., then Governor Luther H. Hodges, the

USS NORTH CAROLINA Battleship Advisory Committee, Governor Terry Sanford and Hugh Morton coupled with the $330,000 donated by the citizens of North Carolina.

The ship was towed down the East Coast from Bayonne to the Cape Fear River, was moored at her present berth on October 2, 1961 and was dedicated as a State war memorial on April 29, 1962.

Battleship NC

Wilmington, North Carolina is the first American World War II Heritage City .

President Harry S. Truman

The following is a quote from President Harry S. Truman in his address to the Armed Forces of the United States throughout the world over the Armed Forces Radio Service and major networks on April 17, 1945.  President Truman spoke at 10 p.m. from the White House.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid.  They have earned our undying gratitude.  America will never forget their sacrifices.”

Thank You to all who served on the USS NORTH CAROLINA.

Showboat Podcasts

Prepare your family for the visit by listening to the battleship podcasts and reviewing the historic photographs and summaries prepared by the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command:

Key Events in World War II

September 1, 1939 Germany invades Poland.

September 17, 1939 Soviet Union invades Poland.

May 10, 1940 Germany launches attack against Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France.

August 13, 1940 Germany launches attack against Britain.

June 22, 1941 Germany invades the Soviet Union.

December 7, 1941 Japan, allied with Germany, attacks the United States at Pearl Harbor.

December 8, 1941 U.S. and Britain declare war on Japan.

June 7, 1942 U.S. defeats Japan in the Battle of Midway.

February 2, 1943 Soviet Union defeats Germany in the Battle of Stalingrad.

June 6, 1944 D-Day, Operation Overlord, General Eisenhower commanded the Allies’ attack against German occupation along the coast of Normandy, France.

August 25, 1944 Allies defeat Germany and liberate France.

April 30, 1945 Soviet Union captures the city of Berlin, Germany.

May 8, 1945 Germany surrenders ending the war in Europe.

September 2, 1945 Japan surrenders ending the war in the Pacific and World War II.

USS NORTH CAROLINA firing her main batteries during World War II, date unknown. © U.S. Navy

USS NORTH CAROLINA at sea in the Hawaiian Islands area, March 1943. © U.S. Navy

USS NORTH CAROLINA launched at the New York Navy Yard, June 1940. © U.S. Navy

USA TODAY named the USS NORTH CAROLINA one of the Top 10 “Best North Carolina Attractions.”

The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is a top tourist destination.  Don’t miss it.

Click here to purchase certain photographs on this page.

VisitWilmingtonNC.com™

Essential Guide for Visiting Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington

By: Author Kim

Posted on Published: July 22, 2022  - Last updated: August 24, 2023

Battleship North Carolina is one of the most popular and biggest attractions in Wilmington, NC . A visit to the most decorated and longest-serving battleship of World War II is a must. This unusual tourist destination does have a few unique things you need to know to enjoy your tour, though.

Our Essential Guide for Visiting USS Battleship North Carolina helps you get the most out of your stay while avoiding some common problems with touring a historic battleship.

As of July 2022, part of the USS Battleship NC is under repair and some areas are unavailable to guests. Completion of the repairs are expected to be by end of 2022. We visited during the maintenance and were not inconvenienced in any way during our tour. We still found plenty of interesting exhibits to enjoy and stayed at least three hours.

Be sure to see our entire list of the Best Things to Do in Wilmington , along with a helpful map to plan your itinerary.

Our guide to the Best Breweries in Wilmington will help you decide where to eat and drink after exploring the city.

Table of Contents

Battleship NC History and Facts

The USS Battleship NC is just one of many ships named NORTH CAROLINA. It is nicknamed The Showboat.

The battleship in Wilmington was launched on June 13, 1940, after her keel was laid in New York on October 27, 1937, and was commissioned on April 9, 1941 . During World War II, the Battleship North Carolina participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific area of operations . She earned 15 battle stars and was the most decorated U.S. battleship of WWII .

No vessel in America’s World War II Battleship Fleet served as long in combat or with greater distinction than the USS North Carolina, from Guadalcanal to Tokyo Bay. The whole nation is proud of her. Harry S. Truman

In September 1942, a Japanese torpedo hit the Battleship’s hull, but she continued to sail and kept up with the rest of the fleet.

The section of the ship that was hit by the torpedo is off-limits during the regular self-guided tours, but is often a part of haunted ghost tours on the ship overnight. Men died in this area during the attack, and the location is said to be haunted. Occasionally, paranormal research events are conducted, so be sure to look for special events, such as those being held in August and October 2022.

A crew of 144 commissioned officers and 2,195 enlisted men lived and worked onboard. Learn more about the men, and hear their personal stories about time on the ship, though Sea Stories .

The USS Battleship North Carolina was decommissioned in 1947, and in 1961 was destined for the scrap heap before North Carolina citizens fought to save her. The public raised $330,000 to buy the ship from the federal government.

On April 29, 1962, the memorial was dedicated to World War II veterans and the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war.

More Battleship NC facts :

• 728 feet and 5/8 inch long
• 108 feet and 3 7/8 inches wide at extreme beam
• Speed of 28 knots
• 36,600 tons standard displacement
• 44,800 tons displacement with a full load
• Nine 16-inch/45 caliber guns in three turrets
• Twenty 5-inch/38 caliber guns in ten twin mounts
• Sixty 40mm/56 caliber guns in 15 quadruple mounts
• Forty eight 20mm/70 caliber guns
• 86 Marines were part of the ship’s company
• No funding from federal, state or local governments supports the USS North Carolina Battleship.
• Preservation is solely financed from ticket sales, gift shop sales, rentals, donations and investments.
• In 1986, the Battleship was designated a National Historic Landmark

How Long Does It Take to Tour Battleship North Carolina?

Two hours is the average visit time, however there is so much to see you can spend a lot longer. We spent over three hours on the ship and still didn’t see everything. And that was when part of the ship was closed due to maintenance.

What we loved about the self-guided tour of The Showboat is the stories shared by the actual servicemen who worked on and lived on the ship. You can read their stories and see their pictures in every room below decks. If you stop and read these personal tales of what life is really like while fighting in war, you will quickly appreciate the sacrifices that the men and their families made.

Be sure to take time to read at least a few of the reminiscences. It is well worth the time and gives the floating city a more personal touch, amidst the sea of steel grates; tiny, hot rooms and unfathomable wartime efforts that took place on the battleship.

Are There Guided Tours?

Yes, there are guided tours provided by the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina. However, you must schedule your tour at least 36 hours in advance . You cannot book a tour on the day of your visit.

There are several guided tours, including:

• Second Deck Tour – “City at Sea” This tour shows was daily life was like on this floating city. It does go below decks and includes walking up and down ladders.
• Above Deck Tour This tour is perfect for anyone with mobility issues or anyone who prefers not to be in a confined space.
• Combo Tour Both the Second Deck Tour and the Above Deck Tour are combined in this combination guided tour.
• Big Bang Tour Learn about the procedures and protocol of firing the guns and all that was involved for the Battleship’s 16-inch and 5-inch gun batteries. This tour is in development as of July 2022 and is not available for booking yet.

Can I Bring Food or Drinks On The Battleship?

Yes, you can bring drinks or snacks. In fact, we highly suggest you bring your own drinks because it can get very hot on the ship during the summer months.

There are drink and snack vending machines onboard the ship in one location. As well as in the waiting room at the exit of the tour.

Picnic tables and areas are available in the park surrounding the battleship, as well.

Are There Restrooms on the Ship?

We did see a couple restrooms on the ship, however they were pretty old (part of the ship’s historic structure) and not really centrally located.

There are plenty of restrooms in the Visitor Center.

Can I Buy Tickets Online?

No, not at this time. There are no advance ticket reservations, either.

Battleship NC Admission Prices

The cost of admission varies depending on age and military service. The maximum price per ticket is $14 for adults age 12 or over, with a variety of discounts, including:

• Seniors age 65 and older: $10
• Military (Active or Retired), Military spouses and dependents {must show ID card for discount}: $10
• Children age 6-11: $6
• Children age 5 and under: Free
• ADA Admission: $6 for adults 12 and over, with one free adult admission if assistance is required; Children age 6-11: $3

Battleship NC Hours

The battleship is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year. On Christmas, the battleship opens at 12 noon.

Ticket sales end at 4 p.m. , one hour before closing.

Where is the Battleship North Carolina Located?

The address is 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401.

While the ship can easily be seen from downtown Wilmington, you cannot walk to the ship. However, you could take a water taxi from downtown to the ship if you don’t have a car or don’t want to move your car from where it is parked. Bizzy Bee Water Taxi departs from the Battleship every 30 minutes.

Is Parking Free?

Yes, parking is free for the Battleship North Carolina.

In fact, you can park at the Battleship and not even pay for entrance to the self-guided tour. There is a park surrounding the ship that is great for nature walks, picnics and great views of downtown Wilmington from the other side of the Cape Fear River.

The parking lot is relatively big. While there is no designated RV parking, chances are you can park horizontally across the spaces in the outer rows of the parking area. There seemed to be plenty of space, so even on busy days you will likely not have a problem parking your rig.

Is the Battleship Accessible?

Portions of the Battleship NC are accessible. However, because this is a preserved wartime vessel, there is limited (almost none) accessibility below decks.

Stairs are narrow and steep, just like what the sailors would have used. There are multiple levels of the ship to explore. On each level, there is signs showing how to exit to wait for other members of your party if needed.

In the Visitor Center building, there is a large, air-conditioned waiting room where those who are unable to navigate the stairs can wait.

ADA admission tickets are discounted. Those who need assistance can have one free adult admission with their ticket purchase.

Is A Visit to the Battleship Good with Kids?

It depends on the age of your children and their temperament as to whether or not a visit to the battleship will be good or too challenging for enjoyment.

There are plenty of things that kids will enjoy. They can explore the upper decks that are full of heavy machinery and artillery. There is a place where they can climb up into a turret and see what it was like.

In the lower decks, kids will love dropping money into the Wishing Well. There is a bucket several decks below, and the challenge is to drop coins or bills into the bucket, and not the floor around it.

However, all of the battleship has original stairs used in World War II. The stairs can be steep and narrow, and it can be very difficult to hold onto a baby or a toddler in your arms while trying to navigate towards a lower level.

Strollers can be used on the upper deck, however it would not be wise to use a stroller in the working and living quarters in the decks below.

Helpful Tips for Visiting Battleship NC

• Do not wear shoes with heels, including high heel shoes, kitten heel shoes or boots with narrow heels. The steel grates of the stairs and floors would make it very dangerous to wear any footwear that can get stuck in the grates.
• I wore a skirt while visiting the ship. Let’s just say that with all of the stairs and open flooring, anyone below you can look up and see you coming down (if you get my drift). And the gusts of wind from the river and the fans inside aren’t skirt-friendly either.
• Long skirts, dresses and to-the-floor pants aren’t recommended, either. These can easily get caught underneath your feet while climbing stairs and are a safety hazard.

• Bring a bottle of hand sanitizer ! You will definitely need to hold onto all of the handrails when climbing steps. And everyone else, is, too. Without easily accessible bathroom facilities on the ship, your hands might be feeling a little gross after a while. Especially if you take a break for some snacks.
• Summer time is HOT on the USS Battleship North Carolina, but don’t let that keep you from visiting! We found that the lower levels of the ship were not that hot on a 100 degree day, especially since there were large fans blowing in many of the rooms. Actually, it was cooler inside the ship than on the decks.
• It can be challenging to hold onto bags, purses, cameras, water bottles, etc. as you go up and down the stairs. Bring as little as possible onto the ship and make sure that it can be carried hands-free for safety.
• We toured the battleship in June when it was 100 degrees outside. Yes, it was hot, but it wasn’t horrible when in the decks below. However, we only brought one bottle of water and definitely needed more! If you are touring in the heat, be sure to bring bottled water or drinks with you! These water bottle carrier bags make it easy to bring water but keep your hands free while climbing stairs.
• If anyone in your party is unable to climb stairs or just needs a break from the heat, there is a large room with lots of seating at the exit of the battleship.
• Be sure to see the interesting exhibits in the Visitor Center. These are artifacts from other ships also named NORTH CAROLINA.
• If you want a guided tour, you will need to plan ahead. Guided tours must be booked more than a day in advance, and are only offered in the mornings.
• The USS North Carolina is open every day of the year.

Can I Fly a Drone Over the USS Battleship North Carolina?

Yes, flying a drone is allowed over the battleship as long as state and federal drone laws are followed and you are not endangering others or the property. Launching and landing a drone can only be done from the surrounding park, though, not from the decks of the ship.

Battleship NC Gift Shop

The gift shop at Battleship North Carolina is huge and has a wide variety of items to buy as a souvenir. Purchasing items at the gift shop is one of the main ways to support the preservation of the battleship.

Among the most unique items to buy are Battleship Knives made from steel from the hull and teak that come directly off of the USS Battleship NC.

Metal from the battleship is also used to make unique signs with nautical shapes that are a visible reminder of the battleship’s history.

These items can be bought in the gift shop, or online via BattleStarCollection.com . See more about these unique souvenirs in the video below:

A commemorative flag flown from the main mast of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is also available to purchase. This is a great idea for a birthday, anniversary or enlistment gift. The flags can be purchased and then will be mailed to you after they have been flown, along with a signed Certificate of Presentation from the Director of the Battleship Memorial.

Hotels Near Battleship NC

The USS Battleship North Carolina memorial is close to the crossroads of highways, as well as across the Cape Fear river from downtown Wilmington. There are plenty of hotels nearby, including:

• Hotel Ballast Wilmington
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
• Hampton Inn Wilmington Downtown

For a beachfront hotel with ocean views, consider staying at the Blockade Runner Resort in nearby Wrightsville Beach.

Battleship North Carolina Marathon

The Battleship Half Marathon is among the oldest half marathon races in the south. In November, a half marathon, 10k and 5k are held through the streets of downtown Wilmington, with views of the Battleship NC in the distance. Show your race bib for free admission to the battleship .

A visit to the USS Battleship North Carolina is so important in today’s modern age. Exploring the ship and what life was like for the sailors and servicemen during World War II puts into perspective the sacrifices the men made to fight for freedom. It is memorials like these that keep history alive and help us not to forget what previous generations have done for our continued liberty.

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Welcome To The

Friends of the Battleship

Help Preserve the Legacy

The Friends of the Battleship North Carolina , Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to support Battleship  North Carolina  and to promote and perpetuate activities relating to the ship.

The Battleship receives no funding from federal, state, or local governments for its operations. The ship’s primary revenue source is generated from admissions, gift shop sales, rentals, donations, and other activities. The Friends assist by providing funding support to the ship for exhibits, conservation, restoration, and education programs through fundraising activities, membership, and donations (a copy of our IRS Form 990 is available upon request). 

The Friends also work to enhance the visitor experience. With the assistance of a cadre of dedicated volunteers, we offer paid guided tours of the Battleship using certified tour guides. The Friends also provide support to visitors through the use of Ambassadors/Docents and can facilitate volunteer opportunities for those interested in being more involved with the Battleship, including providing tour guide and ambassador training.

Lastly, the Friends Help Preserve the Legacy by educating the public about the Battleship and the Friends organization. Through outreach to surrounding communities and interaction with visitors aboard the Battleship, the Friends help keep the memory alive.

Exhibit Support Through Funding

The Friends of the Battleship  North Carolina are proud of their efforts in support of the Battleship with funding for exhibits, conservation, and restoration.  Some of the projects funded by the Friends include:  

• A major contributor to the “Light the Legacy” project
• Replication of two “Nancy” infrared signal beacon fixtures
• Replacement of four glass lenses on the forward main battery director
• Fabrication of 12 main battery powder bag replicas
• Past Perfect Online Collections Database
• 1MC system repair
• Manufacture and replacement of dozens of switchplates
• Conservation of the forward ship’s bell
• Reinterpretation of Ship Stores 1 & 2
• Reinterpretation of the turret #2 gun house
• Restoration of the 26-foot motor whaleboat
• Restoration and replacement of missing bridge furnishings
• Custom models of the Ironclad, Armored Cruiser, and Submarine named  North Carolina, and their display cases
• Acquisition and conservation of an 1827 painting of the Ship-of-the-Line  North Carolina  
• Conservation of an original relief map of Iwo Jima
• Purchase of a 3-D printer for restoration and maintenance efforts

Visit the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA

We are the official water taxi service to the battleship north carolina, we are excited to announce that we are the official partner of the battleship north carolina for water transportation to and from battleship park..

For those looking to visit the Battleship, we offer pickup and drop-off at the Battleship’s Piedmont Natural Gas Marine Trail Dock, and can ferry you across the river back to downtown Wilmington once your visit is over.

Additionally, as part of our partnership with the Battleship North Carolina, we will facilitate the use of the Piedmont Natural Gas Marine Trail Dock located at Battleship Park for those looking to use their own vessels to visit the Battleship. You can sign and submit vessels waivers and applications for both commercial and commercial vessels to use the dock using the forms on the right.

Please review and sign the documents on the right if you wish to use the Battleship North Carolina’s Marine Trail Dock for your own vessel.

We look forward to working with you to coordinate your visit and use of the facility! Please contact us if you have any questions.

Liability Waiver For Non-Commercial Vessels:

Click here to fill and sign

Application for Use and Liability Waiver for Commercial Vessels:

During Your Battleship Visit

Step back in time and let history come alive through the crews’ stories. Imagine yourself steering the ship, starting her engines or even firing the guns. JOIN THE CREW and be a part of Battleship history at the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA! –  Battleship North Carolina Website

One of North Carolina’s most visited attractions has a new addition for visitors of any age or physical capability. The  USS North Carolina  unveiled a new walkway!

The SECU Memorial Walkway will give visitors to the battleship a nearly 360 degree visual of the vessel.

It stretches roughly a kilometer around the battleship that’s open to the public year round. Come aboard the Bizzy Bee and spend some time walking around the Battleship.

Things to do during your visit:

• Self-guided and guided tours of the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA
• Walk around the SECU Memorial Walkway
• Launch your kayak from the Piedmont Natural Gas Marine Trail Dock
• Year-round historical and education events and programs
• Education programs for school groups and camps
• Private group parties, rentals, and tours
• View the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA’S website for more information!

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Programs & Events

Public programs, group programs, radio programs, special events.

Hidden Battleship

Hidden Battleship is for the explorer at heart!  Join us for an afternoon on a unique, behind-the-scenes tour of unrestored areas on the Battleship. Organized into small groups, the participants are led to areas in the bow, third deck, and below, and the superstructure, including all the way to the very top! This program requires climbing ladders, crossing high hatches, and going through tight/confined spaces. The tour is limited to ages 16 and older.

► January 20 ► March 16 ► May 18 ► November 16

12 pm – 5 pm, $60 (plus tax) per participant. This program always sells out, so get your Hidden Battleship ticket now. This program is for ages 16 and older.

Battleship 101

Friendly, knowledgeable volunteers stationed throughout the Ship engage visitors in specific subjects and areas such as gunnery, sick bay, engineering, and daily shipboard life. Enjoy the opportunity to go behind the doors and inside normally closed spaces. Hands-on opportunities for the young and young at heart! This event is perfect for families and scout/youth groups. Bring your questions and cameras!

►February 17 ►March 9 ►April 13 ► May 11 ► June 8 ► October 12

Free with regular Battleship admission.

Battleship Alive!

Watch and interact with World War II living history interpreters as they bring the Ship to life by re-enacting daily duties and drills. This event is perfect for families and scout/youth groups. Bring your questions and cameras!

► April 20 ► September 28 ► December 7

8 am – 5 pm, free with regular Battleship admission.

Meet the MARDET

This program is designed for Marine Corps personnel. Held inside the Marine compartment, a retired Marine gives an insightful illustrated presentation on the Battleship and her Marines. The program includes an array of period artifacts and weapons followed by a self-guided tour of the Battleship. This program is dependent upon volunteer availability.

Minimum group size is 15 participants; maximum group size is 25 participants. This program is available Monday – Friday, October – April.

► $5 (per participant)

To make a reservation or to receive more information, please contact Shelly Robinson or call 910-399-9101 between 9 am – 3 pm, Monday – Friday.

This program requires Battleship group rate admission.  

Azalea Coast Amateur Radio Club

Guest ham operator program.

The Azalea Coast Amateur Radio Club welcomes licensed HAM operators to the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA to transmit via Voice, Digital or Morse Code from Radio Central. Contact the club to make arrangements at least 10 days in advance of your visit.

NCQSO Party

The NC QSO Party is a statewide ham radio event. Operators try to make contact with all 100 North Carolina counties within a 9-hour period.  It is a friendly contest as every contact contains points, and those hams with the most points in certain categories win in that category. The Battleship is NI4BK, and HAM operators may contact the ship via Voice, Digital, and Morse Code. NI4BK is a “Bonus” point station that is highly prized by contestants, and NORTH CAROLINA’s presence is posted throughout the day on a “spotting cluster” for the world to see. The Battleship is NI4BK, and we look forward to hearing from YOU!

► February 25

9 am – 4 pm, free with regular Battleship admission.

Museum Ships Weekend

Operating aboard Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, the Azalea Coast Radio Club participates in the annual Museum Ships Weekend. Sponsored by the Battleship NEW JERSEY Radio Club, HAM operators on 102 museum ships worldwide take part in the event. The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is NI4BK and HAM operators may contact the ship via Voice, Digital, and Morse Code. 

► June 1 – 2

North Carolina State Parks on the Air

The North Carolina State Parks on the Air is an annual event that attempts to “activate” all 107 North Carolina state parks over the course of a weekend. The event is an outgrowth of the international Parks On The Air phenomenon that is so popular within amateur radio. To “activate” a park means to set up an amateur radio station in the park and make at least 10 radio contacts with that station. The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is a highly sought after “park” by HAM operators worldwide.

► September 9 & 10

Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance

Operating aboard Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, the Azalea Coast Radio Club hosts a worldwide HAM radio operator event commemorating the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. The Battleship is NI4BK, and HAM operators may contact the ship via Voice, Digital, and Morse Code. NI4BK looks forward to hearing from YOU! Radio operators making contact will receive a special postcard verifying the contact.

Save the Date

► December 7

Memorial Day Observance Ceremony

Remember those who gave their lives in service by honoring veterans at the Battleship’s traditional Memorial Day Observance featuring a military guest speaker, an all-service Color guard, a 21-gun salute by a Marine Corps Honor Guard, a military band, taps, and a memorial wreath cast into the waters. 

2024 Military Guest Of Honor: Colonel Marshalee E. Clarke, Commanding Officer of the Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools, Camp Lejeune

► Monday, May 27

The public is invited to this free observance.

3pm – Complimentary admission begins.

4pm – Memorial Day Observance begins on the Battleship fantail. 

► Fantail Observance is Weather Permitting. 

Battleship Boom & Bloom Fireworks Bonanza! 

Ticket Price includes a take-home pink folding chair for your seat, bag of popcorn courtesy of Friends of the Battleship, music and dancing, a self-guided deck tour, and the premiere firework viewing spot!

Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.

Kids 5 and Under are Free!

Rain or shine unless the fireworks are canceled. If the event is canceled you will receive a full refund.

► April 6, 7:30 pm

7:30 – 9:30 pm. Rain or shine unless the fireworks are canceled. If the event is canceled you will receive a full refund.

July 4th Fireworks 

Watch the City of Wilmington’s spectacular 4th of July fireworks display from the deck of the Battleship North Carolina . Members of the Friends of the Battleship North Carolina have exclusive access to the ship for the fireworks show.

►Thursday, July 4  

6 pm, FREE — ( You must be a Friends of the Battleship member to attend this event ) . Tickets go on sale June 1. ( tickets are limited to membership level ). Not a member? Join now!

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USS Battleship North Carolina Ghost Hunt & Tour, Wilmington NC

US $ 129.00

Widely regarded as the most haunted location in North Carolina, we’re delighted to be able to offer you the chance to investigate this historic battleship!

Tickets are extremely limited!

Deposits of $30 per person, remaining balance due 1 month before your event date. 

Event Time: 8PM – 2AM

— OR —

• Description

Event Details

Testimonials, nearby accommodation, as featured on syfy’s and a&e’s ghost hunters.

Also Includes:

Daytime Tour of the Ship & Exclusive VIP Access to Areas Off-Limits!

If you’re an avid ghost hunter, a fan of the paranormal, or just love watching the TV shows, then this event is not to be missed! Enticing paranormal fans from around the world, the ship is a real hotbed of paranormal activity that never ceases to amaze even the most hardened skeptics!

Commissioned in 1941, the USS North Carolina was a formidable weapon for the US Navy, striking fear into the hearts and minds of the enemy.

Responsible for saving countless lives during the Second World War, she earned 15 battle stars for her military actions within the Pacific War – making her the most decorated American battleship of World War II.

In all, North Carolina steamed over 300,000 miles, carried out nine shore bombardments, sank an enemy troopship, destroyed at least 24 enemy aircraft, and assisted in shooting down many more. Its anti-aircraft guns helped halt or frustrate scores of attacks on aircraft carriers. Although Japanese radio announcements claimed six times that it had been sunk, it survived many close calls and near misses

Despite her playing a key role in every major offensive during the Pacific War, only 10 men were lost and 67 wounded. One of the most devastating attacks she suffered was the Japanese torpedo strike that hit the port side on 15 September 1942, tragically killing 5 of its crew. Now a floating museum, she sits proudly in the harbor of Wilmington North Carolina, paying homage to the veterans and the countless people who lost their lives during the War.

Paranormal Reports

One of the most common paranormal sightings is believed to be a young sailor who died in the 15 September attack, with apparition often being seen in the battleship’s washroom!

As well as his apparition, there have been several sightings of full-bodied apparitions of other sailors. One common sighting is of a young man with blonde hair who is often seen heading down passageways. Other apparitions have been witnessed lurking in the shadows, looking through portholes, and appearing around corners.

As well as sightings of these apparitions, people have also reported hatches and doors unlocking and closing by themselves, lights being turned off and on, sometimes on command! People are regularly touched, objects are often thrown, disembodied voices heard, items have been known to disappear only to reappear in other locations, footsteps are regularly heard in empty passageways, and EVP’s are regularly captured!

What's Included?

Your event at the USS North Carolina includes:

• Entire night investigation with the Haunted Rooms America team,
• Tickets to the daytime tour of the ship (between 10 am – 4 pm),
• Exclusive access to all the most haunted areas,
• VIP Access to the torpedo hit area (normally off limits!),
• Use of the latest and greatest paranormal equipment,
• Free time to conduct your own investigations,
• Snacks and refreshments

Time: 8 PM – 2 AM ET

Location: Battleship North Carolina, 1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401

During the hotter months, it can get quite warm below decks, so we recommend wearing light clothing, and bringing refreshments with you.

Ample parking is available on the site of the museum.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

What to bring.

Please bring with you a form of photo ID, and a printed off booking confirmation email (or show this on your phone).

We will be providing you with paranormal equipment to use, however, we will need something of value per group to hold onto as collateral (phone, car keys, watch, etc.)

We will be providing snacks and drinks at intervals throughout the night.

And of course, bring your phone/camera with you, the more pictures we have the better chance we have of capturing something!

Other than that, just yourself and an open mind!

The USS North Carolina was a ship born in turbulent times. With World War I behind it, and the start of World War II on the horizon, this battleship was one built for a purpose that many knew was coming yet few wanted. Yet in an age when naval superiority was key to any nation’s greatness, she was a vital necessity to the coming conflict. The North Carolina saw combat throughout the Pacific Theater of World War II, serving with distinction through some of the war’s bloodiest battles.

Today, the USS North Carolina leads a considerably more sedate life. Now a dedicated museum to the memory of the sailors who served aboard her and the remarkable voyages it took during the Second World War, the USS North Carolina is an icon of Wilmington, North Carolina, and a must-visit attraction whenever you’re in the area. Offering regular tours of several of the ship’s decks, as well as special events, there’s something for every kind of WWII buff when visiting the North Carolina.

If you’re more interested in supernatural experiences… well, the USS North Carolina might have you covered there as well. Though not many sailors died on this ship throughout its many military campaigns, over the years there have been reports of mysterious occurrences throughout the ship. From strange noises to ghostly sailors, there are those who say the USS North Carolina might have a few ghosts and phantoms who haven’t left the war behind…

The War to Come

Though the United States spent the 1930s neutral to the conflicts in Europe and the Pacific, the country was not going to let itself stay unprepared for potential war. Many a ship of every shape, size, and purpose was made during this period to ensure the US would maintain naval superiority in the event of war, and the battleship USS North Carolina was among them.

Construction on the North Carolina began in 1937 in the New York Naval shipyard, and three short years later she was launched in June of 1940, later commissioned into the fleet in April of 1941. She spent much of her early days on a shakedown cruise throughout the Caribbean, but this sedate life was short-lived, as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, changed the course of world history.

With war declared, the crew of the USS North Carolina began to train for heated battle in the Pacific Theater.

Battles Great & Small

Though her first mission took place in the North Atlantic, waiting for the potential arrival of the German battleship Tirpitz (a ship that never arrived), the North Carolina was ordered in the middle of 1942 to head to the Pacific Theater to take part in the war against the Empire of Japan.

During the Guadalcanal Campaign, the North Carolina provided vital support in protecting American aircraft carriers during the Battle of Savo Island and the Battle of the Eastern Solomons, where the North Carolina lost one crewman to a Japanese strafing run. While providing support off the coast of Guadalcanal, the ship was shot at on multiple occasions by Japanese submarines, with one torpedo hitting and killing five crewmen while otherwise doing little permanent damage to the ship.

After this period of fierce fighting, the North Carolina was sent back to Pearl Harbor for a retrofit and repairs, before taking to sea again.

Over the coming years, the North Carolina would provide vital support protecting carriers during both the Gilbert and Marshall Islands and Mariana and Palau Islands campaigns, including taking down several enemy airplanes during the Battle of the Philippine Sea.  She would go back and forth between the US and the Pacific several more times for repairs and refits while serving with distinction aiding the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

The End of the War & Beyond

With the war finished in 1945, the North Carolina steamed back home to the east coast of the United States, operating as a training ship, but this duty was short-lived as the North Carolina was decommissioned in 1947.

Over the years, there were multiple plans to try to refurbish or modernize it for newer military purposes, but few of them gained serious traction. By 1960, she’d sat in the Navy’s inventory for more than a decade and was slated to be torn up for scrap.

A North Carolina man named James Craig became aware of this and set up a successful campaign to have the USS North Carolina sent to its namesake state to act as a museum and memorial. Transferred over in 1961, it was repurposed and opened to the public in 1962, where it has remained since as a monument to the brave men who served aboard her during World War II.

What Should I Expect on an Ghost Hunt?

Become a paranormal investigator for the night like the TV stars of Most haunted, ghost adventures or TAPS Ghost hunters.

Use some of the specialized equipment and be guided by experienced paranormal investigators who will share their knowledge, techniques and experiences of hunting for ghosts or spirits.

Feel free to bring along any of your own equipment including but not limited to EVP recorders, flashlights, cameras or video cameras.

Bring extra clothing as in some parts old buildings may get cold but please refrain from wearing clothing that can cause distracting sounds. Many old buildings have a story to tell and we will supply them to you along with of course the ghost stories.

There will be breaks and light refreshments are provided.

We are not out to try and convince the world of the existence of an afterlife. That’s for you to decide.

We can be Sceptical and logical yet open to other beliefs and prayers of protection will be carried out.

We do not perform tricks and will not be running around with sheets on our heads!

You will be with like-minded people looking for the answer “is there really an afterlife”?

However much we try unfortunately we can’t guarantee that members of the spirit world will make their presence known but we can at least guarantee that you will experience a fun and interesting night.

Do I receive an actual ticket?

The event is ticketless. Your proof of booking is your booking confirmation email.  You will also receive an email with important information prior to your event, usually the week of.

Is there any age limit of who can attend these events?

The age limit is 18 years and over.

Will there be a Medium at the event?

All events listed on Haunted Rooms are hosted by experienced Hosts and Professional Psychic/Clairvoyant Mediums. However sometimes a Medium(s) may not always be present – but as usual, you will be in very safe hands with our experienced Hosts who have a wealth of knowledge and are fully trained in all aspects of professional public ghost hunting events and experience nights.

Can I sleep at an event?

Unless it is otherwise stated, events don’t include sleepover.

Will I see a Ghost?

Unfortunately, the activity will not just happen on command, however using the various experiments and experienced hosts on the events, everything will be done to offer the best chance of spiritual activity.

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