For those that have done the Arizona Memorial

[tukogirl]

I know we board a small boat to take us to the memorial and we will have some time there before heading back. Is there a set boat we need to return on? So everyone that took the boat over will need to take the same boat back? Some in my party may want to spend more time on the memorial itself and I was wondering if it would be possible for people to stay as long or as short as they'd like.

 

[DizDragonfly]

Everyone gets off the boat at the same time and everyone gets back on the boat at the same time. They can only put a certain number of people on the boats and they run on a fixed schedule. Tickets have a specific time on them.

 

[buffettgirl]

There really isn't much to do on the memorial itself. It's fairly small and they do give you enough time. You are technically supposed to get back on the next boat with your group, but no one is checking tickets when you get on that return boat. You just line up. The rangers / volunteers will notice you have been there for a while, but if you're simply being respectful, no one is going to question you at all and you can safely just line up for the next boat. (that's directly from a ranger who works there)

 

[nkereina]

@buffettgirl would there be an issue with seating on the boat though if someone stayed longer? I seem to remember our boat to and from the Memorial was full with every seat taken and I don't believe anyone was standing. I could be wrong though.

OP, I do agree with PP that there's not a whole lot to the Memorial. They give you about 15 minutes or so before they pick you up and IMO, it was enough time to take everything in. Back on land, there are more things to see and read.

 

[tukogirl]

Thank you all for the replies! This was very helpful information.

 

[buffettgirl]

@buffettgirl would there be an issue with seating on the boat though if someone stayed longer? I seem to remember our boat to and from the Memorial was full with every seat taken and I don't believe anyone was standing. I could be wrong though.
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I guess there are always a few who stay or want to wait for the next boat. And when you're lined up, if the boat fills up, you just have to wait for the next one. I don't think people even notice or care or realize you're "supposed" to get on the next boat.