Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Battleship open when it is raining?
Yes! In fact, the Battleship is a great rainy-day activity because most of the self-guided tour is inside the ship.
Is the Battleship air-conditioned?
The Visitor Center is climate controlled, but the Battleship is not, and it can get hot below decks in extreme temperatures. There are blowers & fans throughout the tour route. There are also soda machines and water fountains available.
May I bring my dog or pet with me?
Only service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted on the ship or in the visitor center.
How far is the Battleship from Myrtle Beach?
It is about an hour’s drive from Myrtle Beach on HWY17 N.
May I wear flip flops on the Battleship?
We recommend sneakers and similar footwear suitable for climbing steep stairs and traversing uneven surfaces.
How long does the tour last?
Allow at least 2 hours to see the ship. Your ticket is good for the entire day, so you are welcome to leave and come back. Guided tours can last anywhere from 90 minutes to 3 ½ hours long.
What is on the tour route?
There are nine levels to explore. You can see a rare Kingfisher scout plane, climb inside a gun turret, walk through an engine room, go inside a barbette, see the daily living spaces, sit in the Captain’s chair on the Bridge, and much more! The ship is full of nooks & crannies for you to explore & discover.
Are you open every day?
The Battleship is open 365 days a year, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. This includes all Federal holidays. The ship opens at noon on Christmas Day. Check our website or Facebook for changes to our schedule.
Is the Battleship haunted?
Is the Battleship haunted? The ship is very popular among paranormal groups for investigations. For more information about an investigation, click here.
What food services are available at the Battleship?
Food trucks will be on-site on certain days; please check our website and/or social media for a schedule. There is a canteen area in the Visitor Center that has vending & soda machines. Soda machines are also available on the Main Deck. There is also a public park on the Battleship’s grounds where families are welcome to have a picnic. Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please dispose of your trash afterward.
Can I get a guided tour of the Battleship?
Yes! Guided tours when you register online. Tour reservations must be made 36 hours in advance. Tours are subject to tour-guide availability. If you’d like a private or personalized tour, click here.
Do I need to buy my Battleship admission ticket in advance?
No, walk-ups are available all day from 8 am – 4 pm. If you would like to purchase your tickets in advance and avoid any lines, click here.
Who is Charlie the Alligator and is he real?
Alligators are native to coastal North Carolina. There were alligators at the Battleship Memorial before it was the Memorial, this is their home, and we respect that. The largest alligator has been called “Charlie” for many years, but there are usually several in the vicinity. Just because “Charlie” has a name does not mean that he is tame or a pet. All alligators are wild animals, and you should NEVER try to get close to one or (even worse) hold your child over the side for a better look. Small children are the same size as their primary food source and aren’t smart enough to know the difference between your baby and a turtle. It is also against State law to harass an alligator in any way, and if you do, you will be prosecuted.
Are strollers allowed on the ship?
Yes, but it can be difficult to maneuver strollers below deck, but it is up to the visitor’s discretion. Strollers can be stored/kept on the main deck as you go explore the different ship levels.
Is overnight parking allowed?
No. Unattended vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
Does the Battleship offer AAA or other discounts?
No. Join the Friends of the Battleship for a year’s free admission.
Is the SECU Walkway free?
Yes, the Walkway is open from 8 am – 5 pm.
May I store my luggage at the Battleship?
No, there is no place for luggage storage. Anything left unattended may be removed by Battleship staff, and the Battleship is not responsible for any lost/stolen luggage that was left unattended.
Are wheelchairs available?
The Battleship does not provide wheelchairs.
Is the Battleship accessible for people with disabilities?
Visitors in wheelchairs or walkers may safely tour the main deck of the Battleship and enjoy the breathtaking views from the fully accessible SECU Memorial Walkway. The upper and lower decks of the Battleship are mostly unchanged from their original construction as an active warship and consists of steep ladders, narrow passages, and uneven decks. The Battleship is also proud to be home to the only ADA-accessible kayak launch in New Hanover County that is available for use by nature and kayak enthusiasts.
Is smoking/vaping allowed on the Battleship?
No. Smoking/Vaping is not permitted on the Battleship or on the SECU Memorial Walkway.
Does the Battleship offer admission promotions?
Yes! Throughout the year, the Battleship offers special admission promotions (first responders, military, locals, etc.). These promotions will be advertised on the Battleship’s website and social media platforms.
How can I donate money to support the Battleship?
Battleship donations may be made online at battleshipnc.com. There, you can read about the different projects/ways in which you would like to donate and support the Battleship.
Does the Battleship receive state or federal funding?
No. The Battleship is completely self-supporting and relies on admissions, program fees, gift shop sales, and donations to keep the Battleship open to visitors.