SS Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco

The SS Jeremiah O’Brien is a World War II-era ship and one of the few ships that made it back to the United States from the armada that was part of D-Day on June 6, 1944. Another way in which the ship is unique is that it is still certified seaworthy and in its original configuration, which makes it the only Liberty Ship—a cargo class of ship built during World War II—in existence to be in such condition.

Located in Pier 45 at the Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, you can find the large cargo ship docked behind the submarine USS Pampanito. Take a tour of the historical warship where many areas of the ship are open to the public to get a glimpse into life for the crew during World War II.

SS Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco - one of the highlights of 12 Best Museums in San Francisco (Read all about San Francisco here)

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Highlights of the SS Jeremiah O’Brien

Several times a year, generally the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of each month, the ship hosts Steaming Weekends. During the event, the ship’s engines are fired up to showcase the engine plant in action. The ship is licensed to carry tours around San Francisco Bay, so you can take a daylight tour to see the sights of the city from the water. You could also book longer tours that travel to San Diego or Seattle.

If you’re visiting San Francisco with a youth group, you might want to look into the overnight program where a class, youth group, or scout group and their chaperones can spend the night on the ship. During the overnight stay, the group will learn the history of the ship and its role in World War II, as well as see all areas of the ship, including the steam engine used in the filming of the movie Titanic. Additionally, you can visit the ship’s store and play a game of Convoy, a post-apocalyptic tactical steam game that takes place on a broken ship.

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History of the SS Jeremiah O’Brien

The SS Jeremiah O’Brien was built in 56 days and launched from Maine on June 19, 1943. During its time in the war, it was busy putting on the miles, making 4 round-trip crossings of the Atlantic Ocean, including Operation Neptune. Amazingly, the ship made it back home safely, and after the war, and the ship was stored until the 1970s.

The decision was made to restore the O’Brien, which was the only ship to make its way out of the mothball garage under its own power. After the restoration, the SS Jeremiah O’Brien was able to make the trip back to Normandy for the 50th Anniversary of D-Day. The cargo ship was one of 2,710 Liberty Ships made. Only 3 survive today, 2 of which are seaworthy, and the SS Jeremiah is the only one that remains in its original configuration.

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Good to know about the SS Jeremiah O’Brien

Since you’ll be down at the Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll be surrounded by a lot of points of interest that you can check out. Docked just in front of the SS Jeremiah O’Brien is the USS Pampanito, a World War II-era Balao-style submarine that offers tours and historic artifacts. Fisherman’s Wharf is a famous tourist attraction on its own and offers many unique experiences. You can walk through the lively fish market and pick out some fresh-off-the-boat seafood to take home for dinner, or stop in one of the eateries or restaurants.

In addition to Fisherman’s Wharf, there are plenty of tourist attractions, such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum within walking distance of the USS Jeremiah O'Brien. Before your visit, check the museum information online to find directions and nearby parking, as well as other nearby attractions that you may like to see.

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Location: Pier 45 Suite 4A, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Phone: +1 415-544-0100

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