“Her playground… pitch black frontiers so harsh that they still remain shrouded in mystery”
Pressure. So great, that the large Styrofoam cup left dangling outside, has been reduced to a size befitting a dollhouse. Creatures never before seen, secrets untold… This has been the mysterious world of the renowned and elusive USS Dolphin AGSS 555. She’s a sleek bit of business, 165 feet of quiet courage that has navigated some of the most intense and unknown oceanic depths on our planet.
The USS Dolphin is the last of the U.S. Navy’s diesel-electric submarines, and for years, was a leader in scientific research and development. When she retired in 2007, she was the deepest diving submarine in the world. How deep is deep? Perhaps 2000, 3000, 4000 feet? That information remains classified. So, where does the Grand Dame of extreme seagoing vessels go when she retires? [Hint: Where is the finest historical floating museum in the nation?]
In July of this year, the USS Dolphin pulled into her final port at San Diego’s own Maritime Museum. After a long and storied career (since 1968) spent in research & discovery, she has certainly earned her spot in the sun. Her vast list of contributions have influenced the design of submarine sonar, communications, weapons and systems, and earned her a respected spot in the museums historic fleet.
On the eve of July 2nd, we were on the VIP guest list for a sneak peak at this fabled denizen of the deep. Guests dined on light fare, while being regaled with unclassified tales from past Naval commanders & researchers. Tales that made our eyes widen and our hearts swell with pride. Afterward, all were invited down into the depths of this amazing bit of ingenuity for a look at life thousands of feet under the sea. Awe inspiring to say the least, she’s a veritable fortress of metal, electronic genius, wires and raw courage.
The USS Dolphin museum opened to the general public on July 4th. She is a not-to-be-missed addition to the growing fleet at the Maritime Museum. Want to get in on upcoming VIP events? Join the museum! Annual Memberships start at only $35 for seniors & students, and $40-$65 for individuals or families. Just sold your website for millions? There’s a Captain’s Cabin Membership just perfect for you! Members get lots of benefits, sneak previews and more, all while supporting the Maritime Museum’s growing historical fleet. Claustrophobic or prone to seasickness? Not to worry! Donate your support here without having to set foot on deck!
Photos © SanDiegoSunCoast.com.
