Albacore Park

Docked in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the USS Albacore was a groundbreaking U.S. Navy test submarine that revolutionized underwater design and performance. Serving from 1953 to 1972, it now rests at Albacore Park, where visitors can explore the submarine on self-guided audio tours and learn about its history and innovations in undersea warfare and technology.

Recommended For

Military & Naval History Fans: Dive into submarine history aboard one of the most innovative vessels of the Cold War era.

STEM Learners & Families: Explore engineering breakthroughs in submarine design with educational exhibits and audio tours.

Curious Travelers: Walk through a fully restored submarine and see where sailors once lived, worked, and innovated.

What to Expect

Location: 600 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Setting: Set in Albacore Park, just minutes from downtown Portsmouth and the historic waterfront
Experience: Self-guided tour with audio stations narrated by former crew members, plus a visitor center and memorial garden
Highlights: Explore inside the USS Albacore, see unique artifacts, and honor submarine veterans at outdoor memorials

Historical Highlights

First of Its Kind: The USS Albacore was the first submarine to use a teardrop-shaped hull for better underwater speed and maneuverability
Service Years: 1953–1972, operated by the U.S. Navy as a test platform for pioneering submarine technology
Speed Record: In 1966, it set the underwater speed record—nearly 40 mph—powered by an advanced silver-zinc battery
Post-Service Journey: Decommissioned in 1972 and opened to the public in 1986 after a 70-hour tow back to Portsmouth
Honors: Designated a National Historic Landmark (1989) and added to the Submarine Hall of Fame (2005)

What Makes the USS Albacore Unique

Innovative Design: Inspired by aircraft and blimps, the Albacore featured advanced sonar, dive systems, and tight-turning capability
Smaller but Faster: Although compact, it could outperform larger, nuclear-powered submarines of its time
Legacy Motto: Praenuntius Futuri – “Forerunner of the Future”

Visitor Center & Memorial Garden

Exhibit Gallery: Learn more about the Albacore’s role in naval history through displays, photos, and submarine artifacts
Memorial Garden: Honors members of the U.S. Submarine Service lost in WWII and the Cold War
Dolphin Monument: Black granite sculpture representing submarine-qualified sailors, a tradition dating back to 1923

Educational Programs

Self-Guided Audio Tours: Start at outdoor podiums, then follow 11 narrated stations inside the submarine
Interactive Learning: Hear first-hand accounts from former crew members and explore real Navy tech up close
Knowledgeable Staff: On hand at the Visitor Center to answer questions and provide additional insights

Visitor Tips

Accessibility: The submarine has narrow passageways and ladders—visitors should wear comfortable shoes
Plan Ahead: Allow about 45–60 minutes for your visit, including time in the visitor center and memorial garden
Photography: Cameras are welcome—there are plenty of great photo ops inside and outside the sub

Contact & Map

USS Albacore & Albacore Park
600 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
ussalbacore.org