Follow the submarine for the first mile of her journey into Lake Michigan!
Ride a short evening charter alongside the historic Silversides as she begins her tow on Lake Michigan. This compact outing offers rare, close-range views of a WWII-era submarine while supporting preservation efforts.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Low fitness required; able to step on/off a small boat and stand for portions of the cruise.
Wildlife
History
The Silversides is a World War II–era submarine preserved as a museum ship in Muskegon; the vessel and museum highlight naval history and local maritime heritage.
Conservation
Proceeds from the charter support ongoing restoration; visitors are asked to minimize disturbance to wildlife and pack out any trash to protect the shoreline.
USS Silverside Submarine Museum
Follow the submarine for the first mile of her journey into Lake Michigan!
USS Silverside (SS-236) is a preserved World War II submarine on display as the USS Silverside Submarine Museum in Muskegon, Michigan. As a Gato-class submarine, USS Silverside served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and now functions as a museum ship open to the public for education and historical interpretation.
The museum offers General Admission access that allows visitors to walk aboard and experience the vessel’s historic spaces. Interpretive signage and exhibits present the submarine’s history, the role of submarines during World War II, and the lived experience of the crew. The ship is presented as a tangible artifact of naval history and is preserved for public viewing and learning.
Located in Muskegon, Michigan, the USS Silverside provides a hands-on maritime history experience on the waterfront. The museum’s mission focuses on preservation, interpretation, and public access to an authentic naval vessel from the World War II era. Visitors planning a visit can expect an on-board museum ship experience centered on historical context, engineering heritage, and the story of the crew who served aboard the USS Silverside.
All information presented by the museum is intended to inform visitors about the submarine’s service and significance. The USS Silverside Submarine Museum provides a direct connection to naval history for local residents, school groups, and visitors to Muskegon seeking a historical, educational outing.
Location
Muskegon, MI
Waterfront museum ship location
Tours Offered
General Admission
Public access to the museum ship
Historic Vessel
WWII Submarine
Gato-class USS Silverside (SS-236)
Museum Experience
On-board Visit
Walk aboard an authentic submarine
Arrange General Admission to walk aboard this historic WWII submarine in Muskegon — check museum hours and visitor information before arriving.
Arrive early to board
Board between 5:30pm and 6:00pm; late arrivals cannot join once the tow begins.
Dress for lake wind
Bring a windproof layer—temperatures on deck drop quickly after sunset.
Bring a mid-range zoom
A 70–200mm range captures details on the sub without crowding other guests.
Support preservation
Purchasing a ticket helps fund restoration—ask crew about donation and volunteer options.
Windproof jacket
Shields you from lake breeze and evening chill on deck.
summer
Binoculars
Helps pick out hull details and harbor activity from the charter.
Camera with mid-range zoom
Capture close-up shots of the submarine and wide harbor scenes.
Non-slip shoes
Stable footing on a moving deck and wet surfaces.