Exploring The Globe While Serving In The Navy

Joining the Navy is a great way to see the world and travel to new places. With access to naval ships, sailors can visit various countries and experience different cultures. The US Navy, for example, operates globally and deploys ships to numerous destinations, from major port cities to more remote locations. Sailors can also request to serve in specific locations, such as Italy, Britain, Hawaii, Spain, or Japan, and enjoy the benefit of having moving expenses covered. While there are some constraints on Navy travel, and sailors don't get to choose their ports, it is still a unique opportunity to explore the world while earning a steady paycheck.

The US Navy offers a wide range of jobs, from photographers to electricians

Joining the Navy can be a great way to see the world, and the US Navy offers a diverse range of jobs, including photographers and electricians.

Photographers in the Navy

Military photographers have a unique and exciting role, documenting a wide range of military activities, from operations and actions to noteworthy individuals, news, events, and even evidence. Their work is similar to that of a civilian photographer, but with a focus on military engagements, often using advanced photographic technology.

To become a military photographer, you'll need to develop your photography skills, meet with a recruiter, undergo required testing, and attend basic and specialized training in media and photography. During your service, you may work on a base in the US or be deployed internationally in both combat and non-combat situations.

Electricians in the Navy

The US Navy offers two main electrician roles: Construction Electrician and Electrician's Mate.

Construction Electrician

As a Construction Electrician, you are responsible for keeping the power grid lit for the Seabees, the US Navy's construction battalion. Your duties include installing and repairing telephone systems, wiring, alarms, electrical power distribution networks, and more. You may work at Navy bases or ports around the globe and be deployed to help develop or rebuild areas affected by natural disasters.

Electrician's Mate

Electrician's Mates are responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the electrical systems and equipment aboard Navy ships. They ensure the power distribution circuitry, aircraft runway lighting, and all electronic systems are functioning. Electrician's Mates are typically stationed in the US and overseas, primarily aboard Navy ships, but they also receive assignments at shore stations.

Both roles offer extensive training and advancement opportunities, and the skills gained can lead to valuable credentials and occupational opportunities in the civilian world.

So, whether you're interested in capturing the stories of the Navy through photography or ensuring the lights stay on through electrical expertise, the US Navy offers a range of unique and rewarding career paths that can take you around the world.

Sailors earn 30 days of vacation each year, more than the average US citizen

Sailors in the US Navy earn 30 days of paid vacation each year, which is more than the average US citizen. This is a significant benefit for those wanting to join the Navy and see the world. In addition to the 30 days of annual leave, sailors also get federal holidays, and the opportunity to accumulate up to 60 days of leave over a two-year period. This means that if a sailor doesn't take all their vacation days in one year, they can save them up and take an extended break in the following year.

The amount of vacation time offered by the Navy is a great incentive for those who want to travel. The Navy offers the chance to work on a ship and visit foreign countries, even if it's just for a few days at a time. This is something that most people wouldn't get to do in a civilian career. Of course, the amount of travel may vary depending on the sailor's role and where they are stationed. Some sailors may be deployed all over the world, visiting multiple countries, while others may be stationed in one place for their entire term.

For those who want to make the most of their vacation time and see as much of the world as possible, the Navy offers a unique opportunity. In addition to the standard 30 days of leave, sailors can take advantage of shore duty, which can provide the chance to see different states or countries. For example, a sailor might be stationed in Europe and have the opportunity to visit Italy, France, Greece, and other nearby countries during their leave.

The Navy's leave policy also allows sailors to take leave in nearby countries if they are stationed overseas. For instance, if a sailor is stationed in Bahrain, they can take their vacation days to travel to nearby countries like the UAE or Saudi Arabia. This flexibility gives sailors the chance to explore different cultures and destinations during their time in the Navy.

Overall, the 30 days of annual vacation provided by the Navy offer sailors a valuable opportunity to travel the world and experience new places. This benefit, combined with the potential for overseas deployments and assignments, makes the Navy an attractive option for those seeking adventure and the chance to see more of the globe.

The Navy provides the opportunity to live in various locations, including Italy, Britain, and Japan

Joining the Navy can indeed provide the opportunity to live and travel to various locations around the world, including Italy, Britain, and Japan.

Italy

The Italian Navy, known as the Marina Militare, is one of the four branches of the Italian Armed Forces. It was formed in 1946 from the remnants of the Regia Marina (Royal Navy) after World War II. As of 2014, the Italian Navy had approximately 30,923 active personnel and 184 vessels in service, including minor auxiliary vessels. The Italian Navy operates a diverse fleet of aircraft, including fixed-wing, rotary, and UAVs, as well as modern ships of every type, such as aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, destroyers, frigates, and submarines.

Britain

The Royal Navy is the naval warfare force of the United Kingdom and is the oldest of the UK's armed services. It maintains a fleet of technologically advanced ships, submarines, and aircraft. The Royal Navy operates from three main bases in Britain: Portsmouth, Clyde, and Devonport, with additional naval air stations at Yeovilton and Culdrose. As of 2024, there are 66 commissioned ships in the Royal Navy, including aircraft carriers, amphibious transport docks, ballistic missile submarines, nuclear fleet submarines, guided missile destroyers, frigates, and patrol vessels.

Japan

While I could not find specific information about the Japanese Navy, it is likely that, similar to the Italian and British Navies, it offers opportunities to live and travel to various locations, including Japan and other parts of the world.

Joining the Navy can be a great way to see the world, develop new skills, and serve your country. These three navies, among others, offer a range of opportunities for those seeking a career in naval service, providing the chance to live and work in different countries and experience diverse cultures.

Deployment doesn't always mean going to war; ships are sent all over the world

Joining the Navy can be a great way to see the world. Deployment doesn't always mean going to war; ships are sent all over the world, and Navy sailors can find themselves on deployment in a variety of locations. A deployment cycle can include everything from the initial deployment notification to the period when a sailor returns home, and these can vary in length from less than a month to over a year.

For example, a Navy sailor could spend six months at sea on a ship, while a Marine might fly to the other side of the world for a few short months. Navy deployments can also include time spent on shore, with sailors given time off to explore new places. One Navy sailor described their first deployment as taking them all over Europe, the UAE, Dubai, and back to Europe. Another described their deployment as taking them to Italy, France, Greece, the UAE, Australia, Tasmania, and Hawaii, all within a two-year period.

Navy deployments can also include a mix of time at sea and on shore. A sailor on a carrier described their first deployment as visiting Crete, the UAE, and Spain, with their next deployment including Naples, Crete, the UAE, and Turkey. While some places may not be as welcoming to visiting sailors, others can offer unique experiences and the chance to explore new countries and cultures.

It's important to note that not all Navy jobs involve travel. Some positions may be more stationary, and the opportunity to travel can depend on your specific role and platform. However, for those eager to see the world, the Navy can offer a unique opportunity to do so while also gaining valuable skills and experience.

Navy ships have rules about where sailors can go when docked in a new place

When a navy ship docks in a new place, the crew will typically be given some free time to explore. However, there may be restrictions on where they can go and what they can do. For example, they may be required to stay within a certain area or avoid certain establishments. They may also be required to follow certain security protocols, such as not disclosing sensitive information about the ship or its mission.

The amount of free time that sailors are given can vary depending on the ship's schedule and the nature of the stop. If the ship is only docked for a short time, the crew may only have a few hours to explore. If the ship is docked for a longer period, they may have a day or more to explore the area. In some cases, sailors may even be allowed to stay overnight in a hotel or other accommodation.

It's important to note that not all sailors on a navy ship will be given the same privileges when it comes to going ashore. For example, officers may have more freedom to move around than enlisted personnel. Additionally, certain specialised roles, such as medical staff, may be required to remain on the ship in case of emergencies.

Overall, while joining the navy can provide an opportunity to travel and see new places, there are rules and restrictions in place to ensure the safety and security of both the sailors and the ship. These rules can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the ship's stop in a new place.

Frequently asked questions