historic ships faqs
Historic Ships FAQs
Below is important information to know before your next visit. Scroll down to learn about what visitors are and aren’t allowed to do aboard Olympia, a nineteenth-century cruiser, and Becuna, a World War II-era submarine.
Where are the ships located?
Olympia and Becuna are located a short, two to three minute walk from the museum. To access them, you would leave the building’s main entrance, make a right, and then a left at the Hilton Penn’s Landing Hotel. From there, you will continue walking straight until you see the ticket booth outside of the ships.
Where can we buy tickets for the ships?
Tickets for the historic ships can be purchased in advance online using the button above, or in-person at the museum, either in the building or at the ticket booth.
Do you get access to both ships with the same ticket?
Self-guided exploration aboard Olympia is included in every package. Guided tour options for both the cruiser and the submarine are offered in various ticket packages. The Independence Seaport Museum recommends reviewing the package descriptions, as well as any age restrictions, prior to purchasing so customers can book whichever option best suits their needs.
How long does it take to visit?
We recommend normally planning to spend one hour on Olympia for the self-guided exploration option. Guided tours for the submarine and the cruiser’s engine room are each roughly 45 minutes.
Do the ships have heat or air condition?
Olympia and Becuna are historic ships and, as such, do not have heat or air conditioning. We ask that visitors to keep that in mind as they plan visits during what could be considered extreme temperatures.
Likewise, the museum will notify the public of any operational changes during extreme weather as well.
Are the ships ADA accessible?
Unfortunately no, our two ships are not ADA compliant.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is encouraged in the museum and aboard Olympia and Becuna. Post us to your favorite social media page (and tag us @phillyseaport!). Professional photographers or those needing images for media or publications can contact our Marketing Department.
I want to learn about Olympia and Becuna before I visit. Where can I go for more information?
The museum has dedicated pages for both Olympia and Becuna. Additionally, the museum has an online catalog which holds more information on both vessels. Please click the links below to be redirected:
Is it possible to access areas that are off limits to visitors?
Spaces below deck (such as the engine/boiler room, brig, dynamo room, etc.) are not open to the general public during normal operating. Please visit our Calendar as we are planning to offer behind-the-scenes tours again soon!
Are there restrooms or changing stations aboard?
There are no public restrooms or changing stations aboard. A public restroom is located across from the ships’ ticket booth. All visitors are encouraged to stop there before starting their visit.
Are we allowed to eat aboard the ships?
Absolutely no food or drink is permitted aboard under any circumstance. If, during the warmer months, you happen to purchase food at Spruce Street Harbor Park (or any other neighboring vendors), you must finish it prior to embarking.
Can we bring strollers on the ships?
Strollers cannot be accommodated inside the ships, however strollers can be left on top of the submarine.*
*Independence Seaport Museum is not responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of strollers left unattended. Visitors are leaving strollers unattended at their own risk.
I don't like enclosed spaces. Can I send my child aboard by themselves?
Any child under the age of 12 must be accompanied by someone older than 18 at all times. No exceptions.
What do we get to explore aboard?
Visitors will be able to explore the three decks that make up Olympia. The Spar deck (or top deck) of Olympia is subject to close due to inclement weather (freezing or rainy conditions, or any other situation that may arise where safety of visitors and staff are at risk).
Do the ships need volunteers?
The museum is currently at maximum capacity for volunteers and is not accepting any more applications at this time. We encourage you to visit our Volunteer page at a later date.
Other Helpful Tips for Your Visit
It is advised that visitors wear comfortable shoes that can be worn on steep steps. Shoes with excessively deep heels are strongly discouraged for the safety of our visitors and the preservation of our ships.
Access to Olympia is self-guided. Along with interpretive signage placed throughout both vessels, shipskeepers are also aboard and more than happy to answer any questions you might have!
Visitors are welcome aboard at the discretion of the Independence Seaport staff. Behavior that is boisterous, annoying to other visitors, destructive, or potentially harmful will not be tolerated. Independence Seaport Museum reserves the right to ask guests to leave without refunding your ticket purchase.
visit the seaport museum
Immerse yourself in award-winning exhibitions and climb aboard the Olympia, a nineteenth-century cruiser, and the Becuna, a World War II-era submarine.
