So You Want to be a Washington State Sailor? Top Docks to Check Out
Ah, the Pacific Northwest! Lush evergreens, stunning mountains, and...uh...rainy days? But hey, if you can handle a little drizzle, you might be considering a naval career stationed in the beautiful state of Washington. And let me tell you, Washington knows how to do Navy right! But with all those stunning inlets and islands, you might be wondering: just where are the party boats, I mean, important naval bases stationed? Don't worry, shipmate, we've got you covered.
The Big Kahuna: Naval Base Kitsap
This isn't your average one-horse town (well, maybe one-horsepower submarine?). Naval Base Kitsap is actually a giant umbrella term for several locations around the Kitsap Peninsula. Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure for sailors!
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- Bremerton: This historic shipyard is where those massive aircraft carriers go to get pampered (or maybe get a new coat of paint?). Fun fact: It's the only West Coast dry dock that can handle those behemoths!
- Bangor: This spot is all about the silent service. Homeport to a fleet of ballistic missile submarines, it's where things get serious (but hopefully never used!).
Whidbey Island: Take Flight with the Aviators
If you're more of a "Top Gun" kinda sailor, then Naval Air Station Whidbey Island might be your jam. This base is a beehive of activity for fighter jets, helicopters, and all sorts of aerial awesomeness.
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Everett: A Port of Call for Your Needs
Naval Station Everett is kind of the all-purpose player. It provides support for ships, submarines, and even has facilities for deploying troops. Think of it as the friendly neighborhood Navy service center.
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What Naval Bases Are In Washington State |
Bonus: Not-So-Secret Agent Guide to Washington Navy Life
Here's a heads up, because we like you:
- The weather: Hey, it's the Pacific Northwest! Be prepared for rain (but also those glorious bursts of sunshine).
- The lingo: Get ready to learn a whole new vocabulary of nautical terms. "Bosun's locker" is not a pirate's booty, and "bulkhead" is not something you wear on a beach trip.
- The friendliness: Washingtonians are a pretty chill bunch. Just don't ask them to skip a cup of coffee at sunrise.
Frequently Asked Sailor Questions (FAQ):
How to get stationed in Washington? Ah, that's a question for your recruiter, but good taste in Navy bases, shipmate!
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How to deal with the rain? Embrace it! Invest in a good raincoat and some waterproof boots. Plus, there's a reason Seattle is the birthplace of grunge music - it goes with the mood.
How to speak Navy? There are plenty of resources online and during bootcamp, but remember, the best way to learn is to ask your shipmates. They'll be happy to explain things (once they stop laughing at your "fore and aft" confusion).
How to survive on Washington coffee? Slowly. It's strong! But seriously, there's a fantastic coffee culture in Washington, so enjoy exploring all the amazing roasters.
How to find things to do off-duty? Washington is an outdoor paradise! Hike, bike, kayak, explore the Olympic Peninsula, or just relax in a cozy coffee shop and watch the rain (see, we told you it could be fun!).