Where Do Sailors on a Submarine Live When the Submarine is in Homeport?

When submarines are in their homeport, sailors have various living arrangements depending on the specific circumstances and policies of the naval base. This article explores the different living situations for submarine crews while they are not at sea.

Barracks for Submarine Crews

One of the most common living arrangements for submarine sailors is the military barracks located on the base. These dormitory-style buildings provide shared living spaces and common facilities, similar to those found on surface ships. Each barracks building may contain multiple compartments where sailors live. For instance, the submarines I served on, USS Darter and USS Barbel, were homeported in Sasebo, Japan, where the sailors lived in two-person rooms with bunks, lockers, and a small living area.

Submarine Barracks in Detail

The barracks for USS Darter (SS-576) and USS Barbel (SS-580) were located in two separate buildings: BEQ Bldg 45 and BEQ Bldg 50, respectively. Each room was designed to accommodate two sailors, with two bunks, two lockers, and a small living area. Additionally, each building had a common area with a TV room, vending machines for soda and beer, and recreational amenities for the crew.

Family Housing

Sailors with families have the option to live in on-base family housing or off-base homes. On-base family housing provides a space for service members and their families to reside comfortably. This housing is often more spacious than barracks and may include multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, and living spaces. Off-base housing offers more privacy and independence for sailors with families, allowing them to choose their living arrangements near the naval base.

Off-Base Housing

Some sailors prefer the convenience of living off-base in private apartments or houses. This option is particularly popular among sailors who value more independence or have families. Off-base housing provides a quieter environment and the freedom to focus on family life when not on duty.

Living Abroad in Homeports

When a submarine is homeported in a location overseas, such as Guam, Yokosuka, or Subic Bay, the living arrangements can vary. In these cases, sailors may live in barracks on the naval base or in on-base family housing. However, it is common for many to choose off-base housing to enjoy a more relaxed environment and access to local amenities and recreational activities.

While the Submarine is in Port

Not all submarine crew members live on the ship while it is in port. In some cases, crew members may still stay on the submarine for maintenance or other duties, but this is less common for extended periods. The watch rotation consists of shifts that include an officer, a chief or two, and the minimum number of hands required to prepare the submarine for emergent sea operations. On nuclear-powered submarines, the situation is similar, though the specific roles and duties vary.

Conclusion

The living arrangements for sailors on submarines in homeport are influenced by various factors, including naval policies, local housing markets, and individual circumstances. Whether in on-base barracks, family housing, or off-base apartments, sailors ensure they are well-prepared to swiftly deploy when the submarine is needed.