SS Jeremiah O’Brien San Francisco
A fully operational WWII Liberty ship, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a floating museum offering a tangible connection to maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience the ship in action!
SS Jeremiah O’Brien San Francisco
Best Time
Experience the ship in action!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fully operational WWII Liberty ship, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a floating museum offering a tangible connection to maritime history.
"Touring the SS Jeremiah O'Brien is like stepping back into time, offering an unforgettable experience."
🚢 Special Event Cruises
Look out for periodic cruises like Navy Day or D-Day events for a unique experience.
⚙️ Engine Room Tours
Don't miss the engine room; volunteers offer in-depth explanations of its operation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Engine Room
Lower Decks
Witness the heart of the ship: a massive, still-operational triple-expansion steam engine. Feel the power of history!
WWII Deck Guns
Upper Decks
Get a hands-on feel for history by exploring the ship's defensive armaments. Kids love pretending to man these stations!
Bridge and Crew Quarters
Upper Decks
Step into the shoes of the crew and imagine life at sea during WWII. See where they slept, ate, and navigated.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Special Event Cruises
Look out for periodic cruises like Navy Day or D-Day events for a unique experience.
⚙️ Engine Room Tours
Don't miss the engine room; volunteers offer in-depth explanations of its operation.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The ship offers stunning views of the bay, perfect for memorable photos.
📚 Museum & Info
Explore the onboard museum and read plaques for detailed historical context.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Special Event Cruises
Look out for periodic cruises like Navy Day or D-Day events for a unique experience.
⚙️ Engine Room Tours
Don't miss the engine room; volunteers offer in-depth explanations of its operation.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The ship offers stunning views of the bay, perfect for memorable photos.
📚 Museum & Info
Explore the onboard museum and read plaques for detailed historical context.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of stairs and ladders! Prioritize comfort for exploring all decks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the SS Jeremiah O'Brien as a 'living piece of history' and a 'real working ship.' The fully operational engine room and the passionate, knowledgeable volunteers are frequently highlighted as major draws. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore nearly every part of the vessel and learn about its significant WWII role. Some visitors note that the gift shop may be closed on certain days.
"The SS Jeremiah O’Brien – A Living Piece of History
The SS Jeremiah O’Brien is one of only two surviving and fully operational Liberty ships from World War II, and I’m fortunate enough to see her every day. Since I live not far from Fisherman’s Wharf, I pass by her twice a day on my commute to and from work, and she never fails to impress me with the weight of history she represents.
Built in just 56 days in South Portland, Maine, the O’Brien was launched in 1943 and quickly became a vital part of the Allied lifeline, carrying troops and supplies across the Atlantic. Most notably, she played a crucial role in the D-Day invasion of 1944, completing 11 shuttle runs to the Normandy beaches under fire. After the war, she was mothballed in the National Defense Reserve Fleet in Suisun Bay, north of San Francisco, where she remained largely forgotten for more than 30 years.
In the late 1970s, a group of dedicated volunteers, many of them retired merchant mariners, rescued the O’Brien from the scrap yard and restored her to full working condition. In 1979, she was towed to San Francisco, where she has been permanently docked at Pier 45 ever since. In 1994, she even made a historic return to Normandy for the 50th anniversary of D-Day, becoming the only large vessel from the original invasion fleet to make the journey back.
Today, the Jeremiah O’Brien serves as both a floating museum and a living memorial to the U.S. Merchant Marine and all who served in WWII. Visitors can walk through the bridge, crew quarters, gun decks, and the powerful triple-expansion steam engine room, which still runs during special “Steaming Weekends” on San Francisco Bay. It’s an extraordinary chance to experience history not just as a story, but as a living, working vessel.
For me, the O’Brien is more than just a museum ship; it’s a daily reminder of courage, resilience, and service. If you’re visiting San Francisco, I highly recommend stepping aboard. Touring the SS Jeremiah O’Brien is like stepping back into time, and it offers one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences the city has to offer."
Afshin Afshar-Ghasemlou
"We had some extra time before our Alcatraz ferry, and this was an excellent way to spend it! It is amazing seeing a WWII ship that is still fully functional and maintained. My son especially enjoyed being able to go into the engine room. Very cool experience. All the staff and volunteers we met were very kind and helpful."
Todd Brennfoerder
"A real working ship!
The engine room was my favorite! It had smells that reminded me of my dad’s shop growing up. The engineer said it was the cutting oils that was familiar… all the intricate little pieces… awesome history!
We all had a great time going up and down the ladders and stairs! All three or so levels were so interesting…
The grandkids like playing with the rotating weapons, pretending they were at war… it helped them talk about WWII and what the world might have been like.
Unfortunately, the gift shop was closed that day.
Great overall experience!!"
Andrea Venezio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is permanently docked at Pier 45 in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco. You can reach it via public transportation, including Muni buses and streetcars. Parking is available in nearby garages, but can be expensive.
Yes, there are several parking garages near Pier 45. However, parking in Fisherman's Wharf can be costly, so consider public transport or ride-sharing if budget is a concern.
Yes, the ship occasionally offers special cruises for events like Navy Weekend or D-Day anniversaries. Check their official website for upcoming cruise schedules and booking information.
Muni buses and the historic F-Market & Wharves streetcar line are convenient options to reach Pier 45. These routes offer scenic views of the city and waterfront.
Due to its historic nature and the presence of ladders and narrow passageways, full accessibility can be challenging. It's best to contact the ship directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, and special events like 'Brews on the Bay' have separate ticket prices. It's recommended to check the official SS Jeremiah O'Brien website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
For general tours, tickets are often available for purchase on-site. However, for popular events like 'Brews on the Bay,' booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out quickly.
Operating hours can vary, especially on event days. It's best to consult the official SS Jeremiah O'Brien website for the most up-to-date visiting hours and any special closures.
While it's largely a self-guided tour, knowledgeable volunteers are stationed throughout the ship, particularly in the engine room and museum, to answer questions and share insights.
Yes, events like 'Brews on the Bay' are held aboard the ship and offer a unique experience. Tickets for these events must be purchased separately and in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore various decks, including the bridge, crew quarters, gun decks, and the impressive engine room. There's also an onboard museum detailing the ship's history.
The engine room is operational during special 'Steaming Weekends' and events. On regular tour days, you can still see the engine, but it may not be running.
While not a daily occurrence, special events may feature historical demonstrations or reenactments. Keep an eye on their events calendar for such opportunities.
Many visitors rave about the engine room and the opportunity to interact with passionate volunteers who share fascinating stories about the ship's past.
Yes, children can explore the ship, and many find the deck guns and engine room particularly exciting. It's a great way to teach them about WWII history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options can be limited to special events or the gift shop. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit, or check if food is provided during specific events like cruises.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks is discouraged, especially during special events. Check the ship's policy or event details for specific guidelines.
Yes, Fisherman's Wharf is packed with numerous restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, from seafood to casual American fare.
At events like cruises or festivals, food might include hot dogs, snacks, or themed meals. For 'Brews on the Bay,' food trucks are often present.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia related to the ship and WWII history.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the ship for personal use. Capture the impressive machinery and historical details!
The engine room, the bridge with its panoramic views, and the deck guns offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The ship against the San Francisco skyline is also a great shot.
For professional photography or filming, it's best to contact the ship's administration in advance to inquire about permits and guidelines.
While generally permitted, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in sensitive areas if advised. Respect any posted signage.
A versatile camera with a good lens for both wide shots and details would be ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for the engine room and tighter spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Volunteers are usually happy to chat with younger visitors, making the history more accessible. It's a great opportunity to spark curiosity about maritime history and the sacrifices made during the war. Remember to dress children in comfortable, closed-toe shoes for safe exploration.
⚓ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
Exploring the various compartments, from the bridge to the cargo holds, provides a comprehensive understanding of the ship's function and the lives of its crew. The ship's own history, including its role in D-Day and its subsequent preservation, adds layers of significance to the visit. It's a chance to connect with a tangible piece of history that played a critical role in world events.
🍺 Craft Beer Aficionados
+1Even outside of the festival, the ship's location in Fisherman's Wharf means you're close to many other San Francisco breweries and bars. However, the experience of enjoying a beer on a historic WWII vessel is truly unparalleled and makes 'Brews on the Bay' a standout event for beer lovers.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History: The SS Jeremiah O'Brien
Today, the O'Brien serves as a floating museum and a powerful memorial to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Visitors can step aboard and explore nearly every aspect of the ship, from the command bridge and crew quarters to the formidable gun decks and the awe-inspiring engine room. The ship's ability to still run on its own steam during special 'Steaming Weekends' offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience history not just through exhibits, but through the very operation of the vessel.
This living history experience is made even more special by the passionate volunteers, many of whom are retired mariners. Their dedication ensures the O'Brien remains a tangible link to the past, offering insights and stories that bring her wartime service to life. A visit here is more than just sightseeing; it's an immersive journey back in time, honoring the courage and resilience of those who served.
Experiencing 'Brews on the Bay'
+1Participating breweries, like Local Brewing Co. and Standard Deviant Brewing, often express their excitement for this particular festival, highlighting its unique atmosphere and the opportunity to pour their beers on a WWII vessel. The event has a strong community feel, with many brewers having a long history of participating. The return of the festival after challenges, such as the Pier 45 fire, is often met with great enthusiasm and a sense of resilience.
+2Attending 'Brews on the Bay' offers a dual experience: enjoying excellent craft beer and immersing yourself in the history of the SS Jeremiah O'Brien. It's a chance to connect with the local beer scene and appreciate the significance of the ship, making it a memorable San Francisco event. Tickets typically sell out, so booking in advance is crucial.
+1
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