USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.

The USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. is a destroyer now serving as a ship museum at Battleship Cove, featuring multiple decks and compartments that reveal how a naval vessel was organized. The ship displays the layout of a modern warship, with command areas, engineering spaces, and weapons installations spread throughout.

The ship played an active role during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, serving as the only vessel to stop and board a Soviet-chartered ship during the blockade. This action placed it at the center of one of the Cold War's most dangerous moments.

The ship stands as a memorial to those who served during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, honoring their memory throughout the vessel. Visitors encounter this remembrance as they walk through the spaces where sailors once worked and lived.

Visitors can explore the ship and access various areas including the command bridge and engine spaces. It is best to wear comfortable shoes as you will navigate tight quarters and climb several sets of stairs.

The ship was the last of its class built in Massachusetts and maintains its original naval layout and equipment. This technical completeness makes it a rare example of how warships were actually configured during its service period.