The USS Tripoli is the largest ship on display during SF Fleet Week

SAN FRANCISCO – As the iconic Blue Angels thundered across the skies of San Francisco this weekend, several military ships hosted public tours.

One of the biggest waterfront attractions was the USS Tripoli, docked at Pier 30/32.

It is the largest ship on display during Fleet Week in San Francisco. It stretches across almost three football fields. It is an amphibious assault ship that houses up to 3,000 Marines and sailors.

The free tours allow the public to get a glimpse into everyday life at sea and meet sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen.

“I think in this generation it's hard to believe that we don't have access to our cell phones at sea,” said U.S. Navy First Lieutenant Chloe Morgan. “No Wi-Fi, so there are some issues there and that’s why we really enjoy port calls like San Francisco.”

Inside the USS Tripoli there are many narrow staircases and tight spaces.

We toured the cafeteria, also known as the mess decks, and also got a look at the living quarters, including one shared by 15 Marines.

The pilot house is the area where the crews steer and steer the ship.

“It’s also a special place, there are some rules that come with it. If you enter the bridge or pilot house, you must wear your cover and ask permission to come on board,” said Nick Brown, chief of the US Navy. “When the captain is here and we might be doing a limited transit through an area, no one is talking, it’s very quiet.”

One of the most popular stops on the flight deck is the Super Stallions. They are the military's largest helicopters and are used to transport troops and cargo.

“Everything happens here, I open it. We open the loading hatch, drop a hook out of the ground and use it to pick up the vehicles,” explained Staff Sergeant. Colin Krebsbach, assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466.

For soldiers, Fleet Week is also an opportunity to explore the city.

U.S. Navy Seaman Dekhi Lymon, a Georgia native, is visiting San Francisco for the first time.

“I ate at Little Skillet and a civilian actually paid for my meal, so I really appreciate that,” Lymon said. “This weekend I’m looking forward to the Warriors game against the Pistons, so that will be my first basketball game so I’m excited.”

Future Central Valley sailor Kayleena Pollan will head to boot camp this December.

She said her family inspired her to join the military.

“I want them to be proud of me and know that I can achieve something in life and have a great future,” she said.

Fleet Fest is also open to the public this weekend at Pier 30/32. It's a family-friendly festival with music, food and activities. Further information can be found here.