The museum holds the propeller from the USS Thresher, a poignant artifact related to the Navy's most significant submarine loss.
It is one of only ten museums officially operated by the U.S. Navy worldwide.
The collection features the Deep Submergence Vehicle Turtle (DSV-3), designed for deep-sea research and recovery missions.
The facility houses historical naval mines spanning from the 1860s to modern active-duty systems.
The museum grounds include a 'Torpedo Park' showcasing various stages of anti-submarine weaponry development.
Exhibits explain the development of the SOSUS (Sound Surveillance System) underwater acoustic monitoring network.
The museum floor layout is designed to guide visitors through the chronological evolution of undersea warfare technology.
The U.S. Naval Undersea Museum is the only official museum operated by the United States Navy that focuses exclusively on undersea technology and maritime history. Located adjacent to the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport, the facility houses over 12,000 artifacts in its permanent collection. Exhibits trace the evolution of naval mines, torpedoes, and specialized undersea vehicles from the Civil War to the present day. A centerpiece of the collection is the sail of the USS Sturgeon (SSN-637), a nuclear-powered attack submarine. Visitors can view a diverse array of deep-submergence vehicles, including the bathyscaph Trieste II. The museum displays provide detailed insight into the engineering challenges of operating at extreme ocean depths. Interactive stations and dioramas explain the role of naval intelligence and undersea surveillance. The museum grounds also feature outdoor static displays of large-scale naval hardware. The facility serves as a primary repository for the history of the Navy's submarine warfare branch.
Beside the massive, protruding sail of the USS Sturgeon outside the entrance.
Bring a government-issued photo ID, as you may be required to show it at the security gate for base entry.
Check the museum's official website for any unannounced closures due to base security status.
Allocate extra time to explore the outdoor display area, which is often overlooked by visitors.
Do not attempt to access restricted areas of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center outside the museum perimeter.
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; periodically closed during federal holidays.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as the museum is located on active military property; observe all posted security signs.
