USS Battleship North Carolina Fireworks & Overnight Investigation

Description

The Ghost Guild Inc. is excited to be offering a very special two in one event... This overnight investigation takes place the night of the Azalea Festival fireworks display over the Cape Fear River, and the fantail of the battleship is by far the best location to enjoy the show.

Our best experiences aboard this ship have occurred after a fireworks display. We theorize that the sound created from the fireworks, mimicking the sounds of battle, serves as a trigger that increases activity aboard the ship. One only need to close their eyes during the fireworks to experience an auditory simulation of being under attack.

After watching this presumed trigger event from the best vantage point in Wilmington, we will break into small groups and proceed with a controlled investigation of the most decorated battleship of World War II until 7:30 AM the following morning. Hands-on training will be provided by the leads of each individual group. Those that cannot stay up all night will have a unique opportunity to sleep aboard the ship (bring a sleeping bag). 

This will be an evening of surprises and participants will likely never be presented with the same opportunity again.

We reserve the right to cancel or postpone this event. If we exercise the right of cancellation, we will inform you as soon as possible and refund your contributions. Tickets are non-refundable for any other reason. We are not responsible for the cancellation or rescheduling of the Azaleas festival. If the fireworks are canceled for any reason, this event will proceed. 

Participant must be at least 18 years old and will be required to sign a waiver prior to boarding the ship and participating in this event.

Venue Description

The USS North Carolina (BB-55) was the lead ship of North Carolina-class battleship and the fourth warship in the U.S. Navy to be named for the State of North Carolina. She was the first newly constructed American battleship to enter service during World War II and took part in every major naval offensive in the Pacific Theater of Operations; her 15 battle stars made her the most decorated American battleship of World War II.

Although Japanese radio announcements claimed six times that she had been sunk, she survived many close calls and near misses. Most notably, on September 15th 1942, a Japanese torpedo slammed into the Battleship’s port side hull just forward of the 12-inch thick armor belt designed to protect her. The enormous blast shook the Ship and crew and sent geysers of oil and water skyward. Tons of water quickly flooded through the large 32 x 18-foot torpedo hole. The water caused the Ship to list, but the crew quickly righted her by intentionally flooding compartments on the opposite side. Five men were killed and 23 were wounded. The area still reeks oil and is unfortunately not accessible on the self-guided tour route. 

Date & Time

Apr 6, 2019 7:00 PM - Apr 7, 2019 7:00 AM

Venue Details

USS Battleship North Carolina

1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28401

The Ghost Guild Inc.