Surviving the torrents of warfare, these warships have found a new purpose
They saw action in war and conflict and served their nation proudly but these days, former war vessels are revelling in their newfound purpose as significant naval museums.
HMS Belfast
Where: River Thames, London
The HMS Belfast served in the Artic Convoys, D-Day, the Cold War, Korea and more. It is by far the most significant World War II Royal Navy warship and today it carries on its legacy as one of the world’s most famous floating museums. Moored on the River Thames between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, the HMS Belfast tells the story of its many adventures and the brave souls who served on board this historic ship. Visitors to the museum can tour HMS Belfast’s nine decks and take part in interactive and experiential displays like deciphering secret codes and ‘firing’ the ship’s gun turrets.
USS Intrepid
Where: Pier 86, Hudson River Park, New York
The USS Intrepid is the cornerstone of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The former aircraft carrier, which served several tours of duty in World War II and the Vietnam War, was also a recovery vessel for the Gemini and Mercury space missions. Today, the vessel is an iconic New York landmark and one of the world’s most famous museums. Visitors who step onto the Intrepid will not only get a first-hand look at the long storied history of the ship but also get to experience other attractions located adjacent to the aircraft carrier. The Space Shuttle Pavilion, a short walk away boasts 28 restored aircraft including the Enterprise Space Shuttle whilst the submarine Growler offers visitors an unprecedented access to the only diesel-powered strategic missile submarine in U.S. history.
C-189 Soviet Submarine
Where: Peer Naberezhnaya Leytenanta Shmidta, St Petersburg
Built at St. Petersburg's Baltic Factory and launched in 1954, the C-189 is a 613 Whiskey-class diesel-electric submarine served for over 35 years in the Soviet fleet. Decommissioned in 1990, the C-189 eventually sank in the harbour at Kronshtadt, but was rescued from its watery grave in 2005 and eventually turned into a museum. Now, with the vessel fully-restored, the C-189 is serving a new task as an important naval museum that provides visitors insight to the former Soviet Union’s maritime efforts during the Cold War. Visitors are allowed to wander the length of the vessel with guided tours provided by former submariners themselves.
Minsk World
Where: Dapeng Bay, Shatoujiao, Shenzhen
An old decommissioned Soviet aircraft carrier has found new life as a centrepiece of a truly unique theme park. Minsk World, situated in the Sha Tau Kok district, stands as a military-themed tourist attraction that educates visitors about military history and national defence education. The key highlight of the park however is the decommissioned Minsk Aircraft Carrier. Built in 1972, it served as part of the Soviet Union Navy Pacific Fleet until it was retired and sold to Korea in the mid-90s. The Minsk Aircraft Carrier covers an area of 30,000 square meters and boasts a flight deck where MiG-23 aircraft-fighter and Mi-24 military helicopters are on display. Minsk World also offers engaging displays and performances in the form of drills and a guard of honour presentation.
