Wow, our visit to the American Victory Warship was absolutely incredible! I can’t recommend it enough, especially for families looking for an exciting and memorable experience. My son had an absolute blast, and we all had the best time ever! From the moment we stepped onboard, we were greeted with smiles and a warm welcome. The crew was so friendly and made us feel right at home. They were awesome with my son, patiently answering all his questions and sharing fascinating stories. It was clear they loved what they do and wanted us to have a fantastic time. The American Victory Warship itself is truly impressive. It’s a massive ship filled with history and adventure. Exploring its well-preserved interior and checking out the cool exhibits felt like stepping back in time. My son’s eyes lit up with excitement as he discovered each nook and cranny. What made the experience even more special was the interactive nature of the tour. We got to climb aboard, explore the different areas, and even pretend to be sailors for a while. It was like being part of a real-life adventure! I can’t stress enough how much fun we had at the American Victory Warship. It’s a must-visit for families seeking an awesome adventure. The ship and the crew create an atmosphere that’s both educational and entertaining. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! Thank you to the amazing crew for providing an experience that my son will remember forever. We’re already planning our next visit!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

If you have watched Top Gun more than three times, Battleship or Under Siege another smattering of times and any other Navy-related movies you definitely have to check out the American Victory Ship museum when in the Tampa area! Docked in the Sparkman's Wharf area, this was an actual military cargo ship that delivered supplies to our troops between World War II and Vietnam. Per the informational signs they posted, this 455' x 62' ship was built in 55 days, and could steam at 17 knots. Besides carrying 500,000 cubic feet of cargo it carried about 3 different "pew pew sticks" for self defense. I was even able to sit in one of the mounts and pretend I was "Maverick" if he were a Surface Warfare Officer. Besides its current purpose as a museum, and as a haunted house during evenings in October she also hosts a history cruise around Tampa Bay one or two times a year. The ship also serves to train first responders, I was told. When I went, I was fortunate to talk to one of the real radiomen tour guides who narrated that part of the ship and some of the cold war espionage things they did. As someone into electronics & computers, this was my favorite! Otherwise since I took only a self guided tour, I have to hold off a fifth star. I wanted to see the engine room also, but was told I couldn't do this solo. Therefore, if you can finetune your plans and pick a specific time block I'd definitely recommend going on a full guided tour. I plan to do that next time I'm in the area.

Visited 12/26/21 You have to go around the north of the Tampa Aquarium to find the ship. Not well labeled and very few signs until you get close to it. That said, once you find it the experience is amazing. The ship is huge and the main room upon entering is set up like a museum, while the rest of the ship is staged as it would have looked in WWII with an additional Christmas display set up for the holidays. Some rooms of the ship were blocked off as they were being restored, as well as a couple of areas that were for employees only. Otherwise, the majority of the ship and all decks were accessible to visitors. Many of the rooms had TVs playing documentary-like reels that further explained the purpose or usage of specific rooms, or provided other in-depth information. Despite having several designated 'cool down rooms' that were supposed to be air conditioned, none of them were running so it did get quite hot in the ~80 degree weather. Bring water, fans, and hats!

The museum is at first hard to find. You need to go through the Floroda Aquarium parking lot and keep heading towards the signs for the ship. They do have a few spots for parking out front but you feel like you are in the wrong area. You can pay for your tickets once you board the ship and do a self guided tour. Prepare when you go on a really hot day because, well... its hot. They do have a few stops along the ship rooms that are cooling spots which is nice so you can spend some extra time in there. The shop is worth the look to see if you want to take home a souvenir. You can spend a good 3 hours on the boat just looking around, probably more time if you decide to go through the videos and qr codes for all the different spots. Super cool ship and would highly recommend the stop!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

All aboard!!! Get on the American Victory Ship and explore a piece of history! My kids and I had quite an adventure! Getting aboard felt like taking a trip on a time machine! As I step foot in, It seemed like time stopped. The ship is a beautiful nightmare, I felt sad for those whom occupied this ship during times of war. I couldn’t imagine being on this ship enduring what they’ve experienced. May God bless their souls. I also got a very eerie feeling. I think spirits are still roaming this ship! I know it seems all weird but you have to experience it to understand what I felt. I encourage you to get on this ship and experience it for yourself!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

A low-cost family attraction, the ship transports visitors back to its era giving a first-person perspective of what sailors experienced. Multiple levels of the ship are available to your, walk through, and look into, including quarters, mess kitchen, pantry, decks and compartments. While summers visitors will experience the heat and humidity without A/C on board, the curators have taken the opportunity to provide “cool-down” rooms with seating where the crew would’ve sat to eat—a great, family-friendly touch. Unless we missed it, access to concessions or vending is not available but would be a great addition. Lastly, only restrooms observed were toilet rooms in the ships quarters which was confusing as to if they were available to the public.

It was interesting. This ship was built in 1945 near the end of World War 2. The ship was a supply ship hauling cargo to support the war effort in Europe and the Pacific. It even served in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. I saw 3 fixed guns mounted at the bow, stern, and starboard side. I had never been to the Port of Tampa but had always passed it by on the Selmon Expressway. It is worth taking a look at for a reasonable cost. The Ship is apparently is run by a not for profit organization. It seems like a worthwhile enterprise to keep our history.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

This is a very interesting and well preserved piece of our history. The volunteer crew on this ship really made a big difference in our tour. They were friendly informative and helpful. It's an absolutely incredible experience to learn about and actually be aboard a military ship of this size. Some of our favorite parts were the Captain's Quarters, Engine room, Kitchen and as a special treat if you stay until about 4:00'pm you will get an up close and personal experience of the cruise ships departing for their journeys. I highly recommend.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

It is nice to experience what life was like on naval vessels and learn about historical times of war. Cargo ships, such as the SS American Victory, were necessary to provide much needed support for troops and at times of war placed them in hazardous conditions from sea mines to submarine torpedoes. It must have been so scary to think that just one blast could cause a catastrophic breach of the ship’s hull sending it and the crews to the watery depths below. Much respect and appreciation should be paid to the brave men and women in our armed forces. If you like my reviews, photos or videos then hoist your main sail with a like banner

Lovely vessel. Old and rustic. Wish more effort was put into restoring it, rather than just painting over everything. Note to anyone afraid of steep stairs/steps: they're easier to go down backwards. Figured that out due to habit, but when I did, it felt much faster and safer. Haha! I loved looking at the private quarters of different stations on the ship. The bunks, the showers, the muster station, etc. Can't say I've peed on a piece of history until now, but I am grateful the toilets on there still work!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Pretty neat experience to check out. It's not a very expensive thing to do in the area. The boat is not air conditioned all the way through. They do have cool down rooms that you can stop in which have air. You can explore almost every part of this ship and there are signs to tell you about some facts of the area. I enjoyed the experience, but keep in mind you do some climbing and some parts of the ship are taller. (30 ft) This is not for everyone but worth it if you like history or old ships.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

A very cool working WWII ship! Very well kept for its age. Apparently one of the four working WWII ships in the US. Had a blast touring the ship. The ship even have certain cabins with modern day AC as "cool down rooms" due to how hot Tampa gets so the young and elderly can take a moment to rest in between exploring the ship. Tickets are very affordable and this is a good way to visit a historic icon and understand the role Tampa and these Victory ships had during the Second World War
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

If your a veteran sailor, a visit to the American Victory will have you feeling nostalgic. Though she was out of service a few decades before, she brought back many fond memories of my sea service. Children can learn a lot from a trip to this "Living Museum". Enjoy roaming the ship while on a self-guided tour. If you're visiting the Tampa Bay area and have never toured a US naval ship, I recommend visiting her at least once.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

It’s great to see a part of history that is living on and still set sail!! Go early in the summer as it gets extremely hot onboard.....their are a few areas that are air conditioned so you can cool off but most is not. Their are gorgeous views of the area from up top side of the ship. The movies are worth watching and have many facts that you may not have known!! Price is $10 but veterans and military get half price, definitely worth a look!! Would love to sail on this ship when it takes a trip out to sea!!

I always wanted to see this and since we just finished at the aquarium we did. I got two tickets on Groupon for only $16.00. I really enjoyed the self tour. It was hot but they had cool spots along the way. Part of me was sad just thinking about the sailors that were on this ship but enjoyed it all. What a nice gem in Tampa behind the Florida Aquarium. A must see and do!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

This is one of the most incredible exhibits I have ever seen. They provide an extensive history but you are able to walk the different levels of the ship to actually feel what it was like to live on this ship. Admission for adults is $12. They have special pricing for children and senior citizens. It is worth every penny and you can take the free trolley here.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Right next to the aquarium, have been meaning to check it out for a few years and finally made the time and glad we did. A great place and was fun for us and the kiddo to walk around exploring and seeing real history hands on. You have free range of most of the ship and can take your time seeing as little or much as you want, this really is a must see. Do yourself the favor and make time for it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

It was ok, a cheap ticket but doesn’t take an awfully long time to see it all. There really isn’t anything they can do about it so I feel bad leaving this review with only 3 stars. I guess I’m just comparing it to everything else I’ve seen, just felt like it was kinda left to rot a little, maybe if they had a bit more interactive parts to it.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

It's a self guided tour, you can explore the entire war ship. It was humbling to know that this had served in the war and to see the conditions of the crew living quarters. I think the ship itself is very well maintained for what it is. It took about an hour and a half to fully explore and appreciate. The staff onboard were very friendly. I recommend visiting this piece of history!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

We recently celebrated my son's 10th birthday on the ship. The volunteer crew/staff members were incredibly nice and their knowledge about the history of the ship was beyond impressive. My son and all of his friends had the best time exploring the ship and the experience made for a wonderful birthday party.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Fully operational World War II Ship. A one of a kind experience for adults and children. Walk throughout the ship from top to bottom and experience history.
Price for entry
$12.00
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Ticket type
We used our HCPL library pass to get a discovery pass for free. It was good for 2 adults & 2 kids or 1 adult & 3 kids.

I visited the ship with a couple friends recently. We enjoyed our day exploring this historic ship. I have been on several old military ships, but this was the first Cargo Ship that I’ve toured. We had a beautiful February day so it was very pleasant to tour. I recommend seeing her.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Pretty cool museum of you like history. Be prepared to climb and walk. There are only a few rooms that are air conditioned so while touring the inside be prepared to be hot. The breeze on the decks are refreshing. It was cool to explore. Check Groupon for discount tickets.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

A really cool experience for all ages. The ship is massive. I enjoyed the history and my kids enjoyed seeing the old weapons on the ship. To get there, go to the back of the aquarium. We purchased our tickets on Groupon to get a little discount.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$6–10

It was great to get a chance to visit a historical ship from WWII. Without these Liberty and Victory ships, hazarding all perils, the war would not have been won by the Allies. Thanks for the opportunity to see a little bit of history.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

A must-stop for naval enthusiasts! They've done a great job keeping up the ship, and here's plenty of parking in front. Most of the ship doesn't have air conditioning, but there are some rooms that do if you need to cool off for a while.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

If you have toured other old historical ships you know what to expect. But I was really impressed with the liberty you have to wander almost everywhere on this old beauty! You could take a quick trip in less than 2 hours, but for real detailed exploration I'd suggest 4 or more... yah, it's that good!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Wonderful way to spend a day exploring this historical site! Husband is a Navy veteran. We spent 2 hours just perusing around the ship. Great experience with the staff and a good way to spend the day when beach weather is not good.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Awesome ship. We knew there were other people there, but it is so large you felt like you had the place to yourself. Being able to just wander the ship from stem to stern and from the cargo holds to the bridge was really fun.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Good luck finding it. No signage at all on street or area. Ezra was useless on Phone didn't listen when I told him was standing in front of black metal gate open as he said...told him it said secure area guess he missed that. The actual ship and self guided tour was very good. Lots of steps not for people with issues with them or babu stroller

My wife and I both attended the Halloween event and toured the SS American Victory during the day. They have done a great job rehabbing the ship to its former glory. You have the option of a guided tour, or a self-paced tour. You'll be able to explore multiple levels of the ship and interact with it. Definitely worth the price of admission!

Really awesome ship. It's in very good condition, and they let you freely explore aside from restricted areas and such obviously. Had a great time. They also sell cold water and popsicles for a cheap price which helps a lot with the hot temps outside. There are also some air conditioned rooms in the ship as well where you can take a break.

Fantastic, what a great time we had ..never been on a ship. Amazing how big it is and all the history that was there. There men and women really fought for our country in those old ships . Thank you for allowing us to be a part of it. . Thank you all that fought and still fighting for our peace and freedom..May God bless you all.

A unique experience aboard a piece of history. The museum provides a lot of great information, and there's a lot to explore. The docents are very knowledgeable. A great adventure for those who love history.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Really great experience. Definitely recommend going early in the morning as the entire experience is not all A/C. It was incredibly hot. There is parking near the boat. Great history and very interactive throughout the entire ship. Really a great time with family, steep stairs and tight hallways. Prepare for a good workout!

This is such an interesting museum. The ship has served our nation for a very long time. It tells the story of America in WW2, Korea, and Vietnam through lense of the merchant marine. I had a great time learning and exploring the ship. The staff are great and if you're looking for something different to do, this is it.

The self guided tour was an amazing experience. Wander at your own pace and take a step back in time to see what it would be like to live on the ship. Great experience for young and old if you are able to handle walking for the whole time. At a moderate pace we saw the whole ship in about an hour and 15 minutes.

I saw the ship from the aquarium and wondered what kind of ship it is and then found out it's a museum, so I went there after exiting the aquarium. It is a warship but not a battle ship but still it was fun to tour around. The highlight was a tutoring of Morse code by an amateur radio guy at the radio room.

Have not been in years but everything was open since visiting years ago and it was AWESOME. It’s a snapshot in time back and a must for any enthusiast. WARNING - It can be miserably hot on a day with no breeze in the Florida summer…but so worth it. Worth every penny to keep this piece of history together!

Our docent was great. He was extremely knowledgeable and made us feel like we were back in the time when soldiers and merchants lived and worked on this ship. Our Veteran's Group thoroughly enjoyed our tour! Sorry I don't recall the Docents name, but he drove there from San Antonio, FL. to give us a tour.

Very amazing to get to walk on this ship! I would love to come back and play hide and seek. The ship is so huge with amazing history. Getting to touch and walk on history is unexplainable. Groupon made it much cheaper.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Great way to experience history! Well maintained, clean,and just plain cool ship you can explore. If you bring a receipt from the aquarium next door they take 1/2 off your admission.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

This is a very interesting piece of our American history. I highly recommend visiting. It also gives you new appreciation for men and women who served our country during wartime.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Very nice museum! Be careful if you have impaired or ppl w/ issues walking up stairs. Staff and other visitors were wonderful. Looking forward to a go back visit. :)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Great history and things to learn. They have many displays and the ship looks like it's in use ( beds made up, uniforms hanging in the rooms) very fun to walk through. You can do a self guided tour and explore for yourself. Very fun and not expensive. They do have military discounts.

This merchant Marine ship served from world war 2 to Vietnam. The self guided tour can easily take half a day if you allow yourself the time to explore every nook and cranny youre allowed to enter. However I'm sure you can see the majority of the ship in about 2 hours if you wanted.

Lots of history on this boat. It was amazing to see it and be able to touch and look and just be apart of it. Love that it's still a fully functional ship. Prices weren't to bad actually. It's really hot on the ship in some parts. Would definitely recommend if you like history.

Great way to gain some knowledge of how the sailors lived and what they endured on their journeys. This was a self-guided tour.. it was very hot in some area. However, the view from the top was priceless. *Parking is $10.00 for the day. *Located behind The Florida Aquarium.

Self guided tour so you can move at your own pace. A few cool down rooms on the ship so you dint have to worry about getting too hot. Really enjoyed the ship and the connection to the past.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

To over run with Christmas decorations. Took away from the historic experience. Tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative. Concerted to self tour. Enjoyed the experience over all.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

There is alot of history on this ship. Was very cool to tour it, especially since they also take it out of the bay every now and then. The only thing that I wished I could see more is the engine room. But for safety reasons I understand why we werent allowed down there.

Interesting place, I wasn't expecting to find this museum on my trip and I learned something, I really can't ask for more. I'm sure you will enjoy it a lot more than I did if you have interest in ships and/war/history. I think it would be a perfect stop for kids.

Whatan awesome experience getting So close to history. Thank you to all our veterans! This ship also offers celebration amenities. That would be so cool. It was really eye opening to walk on the decks and touch something that played a part in our freedom today.

Amazing ship and just a breathtaking piece of history! Suitable for all ages and it is like going back in time. It may be a little hot on the ship. So, make sure you wear something light! There are a few AC rooms and fans scattered about all over.

Nice way to spend a morning or afternoon. 455 feet of interest. I took the guided tour no extra cost it took about 2.5 hours or you can just walk around on your own. Nice view of downtown and Tampa Port where ships are in dry dock being worked on.

Great piece of American history to go see. You can wander throughout most of the ship at your free will or with a volunteer guided tour. Great for all ages.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Price for adult entry
$11–15

An interesting place to visit to see a merchant ship from World War 2. The displays were informative. Only downside is no air conditioner on the ship.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Price for adult entry
$11–15

This was a lot of fun. It's a self-guided tour and you can climb around on most of the decks and up the stair cases and even the guns. One of them even still rotates around on the turret. You get to see most of the interior cabins and cargo

A neat and large exhibit that showcases a supply/cargo ship used within World War II. The ship has been restored somewhat recently and it features a wealth of reading material within the various corridors of the ship. I do wish that the

The ship is located behind the aquarium, signage and walkways could be better. Once we asked directions it was easy to find. You will have to pay for parking and the lot was full on a weekday. Plan to go up and down steep stairs on the

Met with Gerry, and wow! What a person to talk to, I will greatly recommend this place especially because of a one of a kind person like Gerry. Also everything is pretty raw and so is a real "go back in time" experience. Thank you!

The American Victory Ship and Museum Is Awesome! It was great to go there to learn all the history and explore the ship. Without doubt going to The American Victory is an awesome opportunity to take advantage of! Have a great day!

Excellent information from veterans that were in the Navy. Great access to see parts of the ship that most people never get to see. Informational videos playing in different areas. Bring water as it can be warm on a sunny day.

Interesting history of a retired war ship, definitely worth a visit but a little hard to find. Take the exit off of the circle drive between the Aquarium and the cruise ship station down what looks like a back alley.

Such a great experience!! Great for any ages. Lots of history. Will do it again in a heart beat. Dress warm as there is NO AC !! and very very Hot!! Only some rooms have ac. Other than that I totally recommend it.

They preserved the ship in good condition, and provide great educational information in the museum. Hope they can receive more funding or donation to make this ship in better shape. Make this ship great again.

Our tour guide Gary was a pleasure to be with. Just a nice tour through history. The boat really could use some fresh paint but we really enjoyed it. Dont pay to park as you can park free by the ship.

Great experience! Seeing a ship that went to war and how well maintained is until today. The staff is very pleasant and friendly. Just one thing... Be ready to sweat if you go during times of heat.

Great piece of history. The people on board were super nice and very knowledgeable and helpful. The view was a plus. It's a steam powered ship that still sails. The steam turbines were real cool.

Very nice piece of the history, good to spend a couple of hours. Great for any age since kids to grandparents, then go to the wharf and take dinner. Unfortunately can't reach the engine room.

Took my brother here and he loves it. He loves the ship and exploring it. The cost is a deal for only 10 bucks a person but if u went to the tampa aquarium, it is half off. Be warn, no AC.

Great museum. It does get extremely hot if you go on a hot day. But they have random AC rooms all over the ship to cool you off. Great views of the Bay from here. I'd recommend visiting..

We had a good time exploring and learning about the history of this ship. The price wasn't bad and having free roam of the ship was a lot of fun. This place is very family friendly.

A neat thing to see. Such a cool part of history. It was hot the day we went and they had cooling stations on board which were very helpful! More

My son & I went here after visiting the Florida aquarium. Awesome experience and addition to our fun filled day. Definitely worth the $10

A cool place to visit, got cheap tickets on Groupon which made it worth it.. The gift shop is a little sad. More

It was not busy at all! Very cool to see and explore an old ship, I would love to go for Halloween someday! More

A must see stop for anyone who is interested in WWII and naval history.
Visited on…
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It was definitely worth seeing. My family and I had a lot of fun.
Visited on…
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My grandkids had a blast. Will definitely be backm