TCG Hızır Reis is Kocaeli's unique maritime venue, where a 1952 American submarine has been converted into a museum; it is open to visitors on Salim Dervişoğlu Street, from 11:00 to 19:00, except Mondays.
TCG Hızır Reis is a submarine built in the USA in 1952, first serving in the US Navy as USS Gudgeon, and then in the Turkish Naval Forces for 21 years after the Turkish flag was raised on September 30, 1983. The ship, whose active service ended on February 9, 2004, was converted into a museum ship by the Naval Command and began to be exhibited on the İzmit coast from October 29, 2004. This area, which can be visited together with the TCG Gayret Ship Museum right next to it, is a significant stop for those interested in Turkish maritime history.
Visitors have the opportunity to descend into the submarine and examine the mechanical systems, torpedo compartments, and crew living areas up close. Visitors state that they take an approximately 1-hour guided tour and that information about the ship's active duty period is explained one by one by the Mehmetçik (Turkish soldiers). There is an important point highlighted in the comments: an appointment must be made by calling before the visit, otherwise, you may not be allowed inside. The museum opens its doors to citizens at a much more affordable price on a specific weekday.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Kocaeli, Museums, Kocaeli museums, Kefken Island.
Guide's Note
TCG Hızır Reis is a submarine that served in the US Navy as USS Gudgeon after World War II, and was then transferred to the Turkish Naval Forces. After 21 years of active duty, this venue has been open to visitors as a museum ship on the İzmit coast since 2004, standing out as a remarkable stop for those interested in maritime history.
Visits are guided and take the form of a tour lasting approximately one hour. It is stated that the staff guides visitors through each section, explaining them one by one; this approach creates a positive difference for those who want to understand the place better rather than just visit it. Many visitors, including those with a connection to maritime affairs, have left satisfied with the overall experience.
However, some practical points need attention:
- It is recommended to call in advance for information on tour times and reservations; otherwise, there may be a wait.
- Entrance fees are considered high on a local scale; however, it is stated that a discounted "public day" is applied for citizens on Wednesdays, choosing this day can significantly reduce the cost.
About TCG Hızır Reis
TCG Hızır Reis was built in the USA in 1952 as USS Gudgeon, one of the powerful submarine designs after World War II. The ship, which served for many years in the US Navy in the tense waters of the Cold War, was handed over to the Turkish Naval Forces on September 30, 1983, with the Turkish flag raised in California. Hızır Reis spent its next 21 years with Turkish sailors, retired from active service on February 9, 2004, and opened its doors as a museum ship on the İzmit coast on October 29 of the same year.
Today, visitors can descend into the ship and see the narrow corridors, control panels, torpedo tubes, and the crew's daily living areas firsthand. This experience concretely conveys how challenging life was in a submarine.
When to Visit?
The museum is closed on Mondays; it is open from 09:00–17:00 on other days. It is stated that a special discounted rate is applied for citizens on Wednesdays; those who want to plan a budget-friendly visit can choose this day.
As for the season, spring and autumn are the most balanced periods in terms of both temperature and crowds. Since the İzmit coast gets busy in the summer months, visiting on weekday mornings provides a more comfortable experience. Don't forget to make an appointment before your visit; visitors without an appointment may not be admitted.
How to Get There?
TCG Hızır Reis Museum is located in İzmit city center on Salim Dervişoğlu Street, right next to the Sailing Club. Since it is located on the city's coastline, it is possible to reach it by urban bus lines. There is parking available nearby for those coming by private car. Those coming from Istanbul can choose to take a train or bus to Gebze or İzmit, then use urban transportation.
Suggested Route
It is possible to visit the TCG Gayret Ship Museum right next to TCG Hızır Reis; the two museums are visited under a joint ticket. After an approximately 1-hour guided tour, you can walk along the İzmit coastline and proceed to other cultural points of the city. It is a strong starting point for a day trip to Kocaeli, beginning with maritime history.
Photo Spots
Shots of the submarine from the outside along the coast are quite impressive. Inside, the torpedo compartment, control room, and narrow corridors offer interesting perspectives. When taking photos in dimly lit interiors, you can use your phone or camera's night mode or high ISO settings.
Things to Note
Appointment required: Be sure to call the museum and make an appointment before your visit. Confirm via the official website or by phone before going: denizmuzeleri.dzkk.tsk.tr
Accessibility: The interior of the submarine is extremely narrow and consists of steep stairs. The interior tour may be challenging for visitors with walking difficulties; it is not recommended to enter without an escort.
Museum Card: While some visitors state that the Museum Card is valid, another source says it is not. It is best to confirm this issue with an official source before visiting.
Budget Information
The full ticket is stated to be 10 TL; students enter for free. TCG Hızır Reis and TCG Gayret are visited with a single ticket. Visitors report that a special discounted rate is applied for citizens on Wednesdays. Confirm current prices from an official source before going.
FAQ
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