Old Ironsides Closed Until June in Preparation for Repairs

USS Constitution is closing to visitors as the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat heads to dry dock for repairs.

The three-masted frigate, nicknamed "Old Ironsides," officially closed Monday and will partly reopen Tuesday, June 9. The warship is slated to enter dry dock near its berth at the Charlestown Navy Yard on May 19.

A multi-year restoration project will involve re-coppering the hull, replacing worn rigging and old planks and making general repairs to the stern, bow and captain's cabin.

The U.S. Navy is paying for the work, which could cost up to $15 million. The last time the Constitution was dry docked was in 1995, in preparation for its bicentennial.

The ship, which is a major tourist draw for the city, is expected back in the water by 2017.