Battleship New Jersey Dry Dock Date and Details

Battleship New Jersey Dry Dock Date and Details

In a monumental event set to mark a significant chapter in naval history, the Battleship New Jersey is scheduled to embark on its first dry dock maintenance in over three decades. Departing on Thursday, March 21, this iconic vessel will be guided by tug boats from McAllister Towing as it heads south under the Walt Whitman Bridge towards Dry Dock #3 at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, where it was originally constructed and launched on December 7, 1942.

The decision to undertake this dry dock project underscores the importance of ensuring the longevity of the Battleship New Jersey. As the most decorated battleship in U.S. history, with a storied service record spanning several decades, it is only fitting that it receives the necessary care and attention to preserve its legacy for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

To commemorate this historic occasion, various events have been organized to allow the public to participate in honoring the Battleship New Jersey’s service and legacy. Among these events are Dry Dock Guided Tours, a Departure Celebration on the Pier, and a cruise with the Battleship on the Spirit of Philadelphia.

Dry Dock Guided Tours: A Unique Opportunity to Explore History

During Saturdays and Sundays while the Battleship is at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, visitors will have the unique opportunity to take guided tours of the ship while it undergoes dry dock maintenance. These tours offer an up-close look at the inner workings of this colossal vessel, including its massive Iowa-class battleship propellers and the underside of the ship itself. As an added souvenir, every guest on the dry dock tour will receive a collectible Battleship hard hat to take home.

Tickets for the Dry Dock Guided Tours will be available starting April 6 and 7 and will continue to run every Saturday and Sunday throughout the duration of the dry dock period. It’s important to note that tickets must be purchased in advance online, with standard tickets requiring a $225 donation per person. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Battleship Curator Ryan Szimanski will be leading select tours for a donation of $1,000 per person.

You can purchase tickets HERE 

Battleship Dry Dock Departure Celebration: Honoring a Legacy

On March 21 at 11 am, the Battleship New Jersey will bid a brief farewell as it departs for maintenance. The departure celebration, set to take place on the pier with festivities beginning at 10 am, will feature dignitaries, veterans, live entertainment, food and bar service, and more. It’s an opportunity for the public to come together and pay homage to the Battleship New Jersey’s illustrious history and service to the nation.

Free parking will be available in Lot #1, located across from the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion. However, it’s important to note that this event is weather-dependent, so attendees are advised to stay updated on any changes.

For those unable to attend in person, additional information on the Dry Dock Celebration can be found via the provided link.

As the Battleship New Jersey embarks on this historic dry dock maintenance, it serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of this formidable vessel and the countless individuals who served aboard her. Through events like the Dry Dock Guided Tours and the Departure Celebration, the public has the opportunity to connect with this piece of naval history and ensure its story continues to be told for generations to come.

Can’t Make it to the Dry Dock Date on March 21st?

The Wildwood Video Archive will be filming the entire process of the dry dock day, from drone shots from above to the celebration on the ground.  NOTE: permission to fly over the Battleship New Jersey is REQUIRED prior to the event 10 days in advance with proper documentation since this ship is a national landmark.

Since The Dry Dock is located within the PHL airport, no flights will be allowed without LAANC!

The video will be posted on our Youtube channel along with an article on our website. Be sure to subscribe to our Youtube channel as we try to hit 100,000 subscribers.