The prominent element in the collection was the ex-United States Navy USS Ling, a 312-foot (95 m) long Balao-class submarine of World War II.

In 2019, the Louisville Naval Museum began a campaign to attempt to relocate the ship to the Ohio River.

The injured volunteer was subsequently awarded a default judgement of $468,584 in a suit against the Louisville Naval Museum.

[5] Prior to the closing of the museum, guided tours of the Ling were available to take visitors from bow to stern, exploring equipment, quarters, and weaponry.

The onshore museum building contained a number of different and unique items ranging from a United States Navy SEALs delivery vehicle to personal photographs and effects.