The HMS M33 is a preserved Royal Navy warship that was initially deployed in the Mediterranean Sea during World War I. In the following decades, the enormous vessel served the United Kingdom in many roles, before transforming into a museum upon its retirement from action. Visit the HMS M33 to inspect the intriguing displays that provide an insight into the ship’s internal features and its experiences during its 69 years in service.
Arrive at the entrance to the ship and descend 20 feet (6 meters) to its platform at the base of the dock. Onboard are varied exhibits telling the stories of the crew and the Battle of Gallipoli, from which it is the sole British survivor today. Enjoy the scenic views of the water and the rest of the harbor, as you stroll across the body of this 177-foot (54-meter) vessel, which has two guns and supported a crew of 72 people.
Learn how the boat was built with the aim of bombing coastal targets and first served in the Battle of Gallipoli in 1915. It was heavily involved in further operations during World War I, before being posted to Murmansk in Russia. Note that the ship later became a mine-laying training vessel and then served as a naval office. It opened as a museum in Portsmouth Harbour in 2015.
The museum is included in the combination deal for the entire Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The site opens daily from morning until late afternoon, closing a little earlier in winter.
Find the HMS M33 stationed in the HM Naval Base in the heart of Portsmouth Harbour. Travel by train to the Portsmouth Harbour railway station and walk north for a few minutes to get here.
While you’re in the harbor area, check out other nearby sights such as the National Museum of the Royal Navy, Boathouse 4 and the Spinnaker Tower.
