Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs Office schedules tours of submarines based in Norfolk, Virginia on the availability of a submarine in port on the date desired. Due to operational and maintenance requirements, we are unable to provide personal tours at this time. Please email CSL_PAO@us.navy.mil for more information.
For further questions about tours, please contact COMSUBLANT Public Affairs at (757) 836-1650 or at CSL_PAO@us.navy.mil.
If you have already scheduled a tour, you may find the following information useful:
Attire: We recommend casual attire. Please do not wear skirts, heels or open-toed shoes as all guests must enter and exit the submarine via a 10-foot vertical ladder. Loose fitting clothing can be dangerous and should not be worn. Sturdy, comfortable flat shoes with non-skid soles are recommended. It is best to avoid white or light colors. Space is very limited so please limit the size of any bag you carry.
Photography/Recording Devices: Photography/videography is not authorized on board a Navy submarine. All cell phones, cameras, video recording equipment, or other electronics with similar capabilities will not be allowed on board and must be stored in your vehicle or left at the guard shack prior to crossing the brow.
Smoking: There is no smoking on board U.S. Submarines. This was a policy in affect as of 1 January 2011.
Ship’s Memorabilia: Purchasing memorabilia is based availability at the time of tour. Please bring cash. The submarine may have some small memorabilia items (ball caps, cups, t-shirts, etc.) for sale onboard if you are interested in a souvenir.
Cautions and General Safety: Guests should not accept this invitation unless they are in good health. Navy submarines, by their very nature, present certain hazards not normally encountered ashore. These hazards require persons on board to exercise a high degree of care for their own safety. Do not operate equipment or switches, position any valves, or enter any posted areas without prior approval from the ship’s force. Be aware of where you place your hands. Never grasp things such as cables or wires. Please be aware that the ladders on the submarine are vertical and there will be walking and climbing involved in the tour. If you are claustrophobic or have other physical ailments, it may be better to forego your visit.
Security: Many features of a submarine are of a classified nature. The radio room and the propulsion plant spaces are security areas into which access may be granted only to authorized persons. Information concerning speed, depth, weapons, fire control, and reactor plant equipment and operations is classified.
Emergency Procedures: In the unlikely event that an emergency situation arises, alarms will sound and the word will be given. You are requested to stay where you are and remain clear of all passageways and operating areas. Do not obstruct ladders, hatches, or watertight doors. Allow ship’s personnel to perform required action without interference. The member of the ship’s company in charge at the scene will explain the situation as soon as he is able.