American Victory Ship & Museum, Tampa

About American Victory Ship & Museum

The American Victory Ship and Museum is one of only three fully operational Victory Class World War II ships remaining in the United States. Visitors tour all nine decks of this 455-by-109-foot cargo vessel, exploring cavernous three-level cargo holds, the radio and gyro rooms, hospital, galley, weaponry displays, steering stations, flying bridge, signaling equipment, wheelhouse, mess halls, crew cabins, lifeboats, captain's quarters, cargo equipment, and engine room. Throughout the ship, rare artifacts, uniforms, medals, documents, and photographs tell the story of the American Merchant Fleet. Built in 1945, the SS American Victory delivered crucial cargo during World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The nonprofit museum honors the merchant marines who served with the highest casualty rate of any military service. The ship, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, also serves as a training site for firefighters, law enforcement, active and reserve military, and working dogs. It is located in Tampa's Water Street District near the Florida Aquarium.