Pearl Harbor is one of the most historically significant sites in the United States, offering visitors a solemn yet educational experience. This National Historic Landmark invites millions of travelers to Hawaii each year to explore the memorial and pay their respects to World War II, who lost their lives.
Choosing the right Pearl Harbor tour can greatly enhance your visit, ensuring you experience its rich history in the way best suited to your preferences, budget, and schedule. Below, we’ll guide you through the key aspects to consider when choosing the right Pearl Harbor tour for your visit.
Your Vacation Budget
Tours range widely in price, from basic entry tickets to all-inclusive experiences with private guides. If you are on a tighter budget, you may prefer the idea of self-guided visits to the USS Arizona Memorial; admission to this memorial is free. That said, booking a reservation to the USS Arizona is recommended due to its popularity, and the cost is small.
Depending on your preferences, you may also want to visit other areas of the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites, such as the USS Bowfin submarine or the Battleship Missouri Memorial. These attractions will require an additional entry fee.
Moreover, you may want to pay the extra money to have a guide accompany you and give informative commentary as you explore the sites. This option allows you to learn about the rich history and significance of Pearl Harbor in a more personal and engaging way.
Pro Tip
As you plan your vacation, create an excursion budget that details how much money you’ll spend on each activity. If you only plan a few activities, you may pay more on each for a richer experience.
Length of Time
Another tip for choosing the right Pearl Harbor tour is to consider how much time you want to spend at the memorial. If you have half a day available, prioritize shorter group tours focusing on key highlights like the USS Arizona Memorial and one additional site. For visitors with a full day to explore, a more detailed tour, including the USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, and other on-site museums, is ideal for gaining a deeper understanding of Pearl Harbor’s history.
When you book a tour, note whether the website states how long it usually lasts. For example, pearlharbortour.org tours of the USS Arizona usually last 4 hours, while tours of all four museums at Pearl Harbor take nine hours.
Pickup Locations
Pickup locations play a significant role in the convenience of your visit to Pearl Harbor. Many tours offer transportation directly from popular tourist areas like Waikiki or downtown Honolulu, making it easy for visitors to reach Pearl Harbor.
When searching for a tour company, consider if and where they offer pickups. Some tours may only depart from specific locations or have limited pickup options, potentially adding extra travel time and expenses to your trip.
Public vs. Private Tour
Choosing between a public or private tour depends largely on your preferences for the overall experience. Public tours provide a structured, shared experience that often includes expert guides and a set itinerary. These tours are more affordable and can comprehensively introduce Pearl Harbor’s key sites.
Conversely, private tours grant you more control over your schedule and a more personalized experience. They allow you to tailor your visit to specific interests, whether spending extra time at the USS Missouri or exploring the hidden details of the USS Bowfin. While they come at a higher cost, their flexibility, exclusivity, and in-depth focus often justify the expense for history enthusiasts or families seeking a more intimate experience.
Consider Group Size
Group size can significantly influence the dynamics of your tour, particularly in popular areas such as the USS Arizona Memorial. A public tour may be ideal if you travel alone or with one other person. These tours typically have larger groups, meaning you can still enjoy the company of others while exploring Pearl Harbor.
However, if you travel with a larger group or prefer a more exclusive experience, consider booking a private tour. This way, you and your travel companions can have a more intimate and personalized experience without worrying about the preferences of strangers in your group.
Evaluate Tour Guide Restrictions
Not all tour guides provide the same level of expertise or flexibility, so evaluating these factors before booking is essential. Some tours employ professional historians who can provide rich, detailed narratives about Pearl Harbor’s history. Others may involve less specialized guides who focus on logistics and time management.
Tour Guide Reviews
As you search online for tour guides, check the reviews left by past customers. This gives you information about past customer experiences, the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guide, and whether each person felt satisfied with the tour.
When reading reviews, look for comments related to the specific sites you are interested in visiting. This will give you a better idea of what to expect during your tour and help you make an informed decision.
The Sites You Want to See
Pearl Harbor comprises several iconic sites, each offering a unique historical perspective. Deciding which landmarks, you want to visit will shape the tour you choose and the duration of your visit.
USS Arizona
The USS Arizona Memorial is the most visited site at Pearl Harbor and a must-see for all visitors. This battleship was one of the U.S. Navy’s largest ships and was heavily armed. During the attack, 1177 out of the 1512 crew members died. The memorial sits over the sunken ship and offers a moving tribute to those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941.
USS Missouri
The USS Missouri is another popular site; touring it often takes place in the daytime. This battleship was the location of Japan’s surrender, effectively ending World War II. Visitors can explore its decks, learn about its history, and even stand at the exact spot where the surrender took place.
USS Bowfin
The U.S. Navy named this submarine after the bowfin fish because the marine animal is a fierce predator, making it the perfect namesake for a war vessel. Visitors can tour the cramped interior of the submarine and learn about its role in World War II and the Korean War.
Hire a Reputable Tour Guide
While you can explore Pearl Harbor independently, hiring a reputable tour guide offers an unrivaled level of insight and expertise. Pearlharbortour.org offers various Pearl Harbor ship tours that vary in price and time. Our booking fee includes the price of tickets and provides you with a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience. Book now for an unforgettable visit to this historic site.
