From Waikiki: Battleships of WWII at Pearl Harbor Tour

Planning a trip to Honolulu and looking to include a meaningful history experience? This “Battleships of WWII at Pearl Harbor” tour from Waikiki offers a detailed, respectful look at some of the most iconic ships and moments of the Pacific Theater. It’s a full-day adventure that packs in history, reflection, and a bit of Hawaii’s famous hospitality—all for around $123 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the way it balances historical storytelling with accessible logistics—you’re picked up from Waikiki, transported smoothly between sites, and guided by knowledgeable narrators. Second, it’s the chance to see the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, and USS Oklahoma, each with its own story that brings the past vividly to life.

One possible consideration? The tour doesn’t include museum visits, so if that’s your priority, you might want to opt for the full Pearl Harbor Experience. Still, for many, the combination of sites visited, the expert commentary, and the respectful atmosphere make this a compelling way to understand this pivotal moment in history. It’s particularly well-suited to history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone with a curiosity about WWII or naval history.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Pearl Harbor’s most significant ships and memorials
• Transport included from Waikiki, simplifying logistics and reducing hassle
• Expert narration enriches understanding of the historical sites
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later options
• Respectful experience honoring fallen servicemen and women
• No museum visits; focuses on ships and memorials

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

This tour is designed to give a full picture of the attack on Pearl Harbor and its aftermath through visits to three core sites: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, and the USS Oklahoma Memorial. Each step offers a different perspective, making the history come alive.

Pick-up and Transportation

Starting from most Waikiki resorts and hotels, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle about 60 to 90 minutes before your scheduled start time. This flexible pickup ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking—your stress-free start to a day of history. The shuttle service from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to the USS Missouri is included, ensuring smooth transitions.

USS Arizona Memorial

Your first stop is the famous USS Arizona Memorial. This floating structure spans the sunken battleship, which was destroyed during the December 7, 1941 attack. The memorial honors the 1,177 sailors lost that day. You’ll take a boat ride over the sunken ship and listen to expert narration about the surprise attack that changed history. Many reviews note the poignant atmosphere and the respectfulness of the experience. One reviewer mentions, “The memorial is a moving tribute, and the stories told by the guide added a personal touch that made it all the more impactful.” You won’t go inside the ship itself—visiting the memorial is a solemn experience focused on remembrance.

USS Missouri

Next, board the USS Missouri, where Japan’s surrender on September 2, 1945, effectively ended WWII. This battleship offers a more interactive experience, with decks open for exploration, and the chance to see historical artifacts and photographs. Our research indicates that the tour includes a visit to the deck where the surrender documents were signed—an iconic moment in world history. The shuttle service from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to the Missouri helps keep the day on schedule.

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USS Oklahoma Memorial

The last major site is the USS Oklahoma Memorial, which commemorates the 429 sailors and Marines who lost their lives when the ship capsized during the attack. The memorial features white marble columns representing the crew members and personal stories that highlight heroism and tragedy. Tour guides provide context about the rescue efforts and the significance of the ship’s loss. One review highlights the emotional impact: “Learning about the Oklahoma’s tragic story and seeing the memorial made me appreciate the sacrifices of the crew even more.”

What’s Included and What You Should Know

This tour offers great value, especially considering the admission fees for the memorials and battleships are included. The pick-up and drop-off service from Waikiki is convenient, saving you the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transit. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day comfortable, and the expert narration ensures you’re not just sightseeing but understanding the significance of each site.

Please note that the tour does not include museum visits—if that’s your priority, the full Pearl Harbor Experience might suit you better. Also, bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor, but you can store them for $7 or bring clear plastic bags for quick access.

The tour operates in English, with flexible booking options including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds a layer of flexibility for your travel plans.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

Given the 7-hour duration, plan your morning accordingly. The tour is paced well, with enough time at each site to absorb the history without feeling rushed. Remember that touring the USS Arizona and Oklahoma are emotionally impactful experiences—allow yourself a moment of reflection. When exploring the Missouri, take the time to walk around the decks and soak in the views of Pearl Harbor.

It’s worth bringing a camera, but be respectful with photos—especially at the memorials. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on ships and around memorials. A light jacket might be handy since ships can be cool and humid.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

While we don’t have a large pool of reviews, the one available review praises the “expert narration of historical landmarks” and the “respectful atmosphere” at the memorials. It notes that the experience is “deeply moving, giving a real sense of the sacrifices made.” The inclusion of the USS Missouri is highlighted as a highlight, with visitors appreciating the chance to explore the ship firsthand.

The fact that admission fees are included is a big plus—many travelers find this adds value, especially when considering the cost of individual tickets. The shuttle service from the visitor center to the Missouri is also appreciated for the convenience.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour offers a well-rounded, respectful introduction to Pearl Harbor’s history, combining powerful memorials with historic ships in a manageable timeframe. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning separate tickets or transportation. The inclusion of expert narration helps contextualize the sites, making it suitable for those new to WWII history or travelers eager for a meaningful sightseeing experience.

However, it’s not suited for those who wish to explore at their own pace or visit additional museums, as museum entry is not included. It’s best for travelers who prefer a structured, informative, and emotional overview of this important chapter in history.

The Sum Up

This “Battleships of WWII at Pearl Harbor” tour from Waikiki offers a thoughtful, streamlined way to connect with the past while enjoying the comfort of organized transportation and guided narration. You’ll visit the solemn USS Arizona Memorial, explore the historic USS Missouri, and pay tribute at the USS Oklahoma memorial—each site adding depth to your understanding of WWII’s Pacific theater.

The value is clear, especially with all admission fees and transportation included, making it a practical choice for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle. It’s particularly suitable for history enthusiasts, first-timers, and those who appreciate a respectful, well-organized outing.

If you’re looking to honor those who served and learn about one of the most pivotal moments in 20th-century history, this tour is a solid, memorable option.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from most resorts and hotels in Waikiki, along with shuttle service from Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to USS Missouri.

What’s the duration of the tour? It lasts about 7 hours, giving you enough time to visit all three sites comfortably.

Are meals included? No, the tour does not include breakfast or lunch, so plan to bring snacks or eat before or after.

Can I visit the museums as part of this tour? No, visiting the museums is not part of this tour. For museum visits, consider the full Pearl Harbor Experience tour.

Are bags allowed inside Pearl Harbor? Purses and bags are not permitted inside, but you can store them for $7 or bring clear plastic bags for quick access.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for older children and teenagers interested in history. Be prepared for some emotional moments, especially at the memorials.

In essence, this tour offers a meaningful, accessible way to honor history and understand the sacrifices made at Pearl Harbor. It’s a chance to step back in time, guided by experts, while enjoying the comfort and convenience of organized travel.

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