EVERETT – Anyone eager to tour a U.S. Navy warship ought to get to Naval Station Everett early for the base’s Independence Day celebration.
Tickets will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis for people who request them while entering the base for its Family Freedom Fest on July 4, base officials said.
People will be able to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and the guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup, base spokesman Rick Huling said.
The gate opens to the public at 11 a.m. The celebration will be sponsored in part by the city of Everett and area businesses.
Tours will be scheduled at one-hour increments beginning at noon, and will continue until 5 p.m.
Those going on the tour must obtain free reservation tickets for one of the six time slots as they enter the base at the north gate near Marina Village. Buses will be available throughout the tour times to take visitors to the pier.
No tickets will be available over the telephone, Internet or in advance, Huling said.
Several guidelines will be enforced, the Navy said.
Ship tours are limited to able-bodied people 8 and older. The restriction is a safety measure.
Visitors are encouraged to bring as few items as possible when arriving for their tour. They must wear flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes. Bare feet, sandals and the like will not be allowed on board, Huling said.
These items will be prohibited:
* Weapons, including knives, firearms and clubs.
* Alcoholic beverages.
* Defensive chemicals or sprays, including mace and pepper spray or spray cans of any type.
* Fireworks, flammable liquids or other explosives.
* Illegal drugs and drug-related paraphernalia.
* Large bags, including backpacks, diaper bags and large camera bags (small camera bags and small handbags may be permitted, but will be subject to search).
* Pets.
Visitors found in possession of illegal items will be reported to local law enforcement.
Also, no items – including strollers, wheelchairs – can be left unattended on the pier or at the security checkpoint.
In addition, no political or marketing activities will be allowed while aboard U.S. Navy ships.
Reporter Jim Haley: 425-339-3447 or haley@heraldnet.com.
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