What Does a Naval Academy Summer Cruise Involve?

I'm thinking about applying to the Naval Academy and heard about the summer cruises. Can someone explain what these are like and what kind of experience or training they involve?

Sure, I'd be glad to give you some overview on the summer cruises involved in the U.S. Naval Academy training.

Summer cruises are an integral part of midshipmen's professional training at the Naval Academy. They usually happen between academic years. The purpose of these summer cruises is to give midshipmen real-life, hands-on experience in military life and operations, and to expose them to the challenges and demands they'll face in their future naval or marine careers.

The nature of your summer cruise will vary depending on your year at the academy. Plebes (first-year students) are typically placed on a large Navy vessel, like a destroyer or an aircraft carrier, to familiarize themselves with basic seamanship and naval routines. They work alongside enlisted sailors, observe various aspects of the ship's operation, and learn the responsibilities of a Junior Enlisted sailor.

In their second year, midshipmen get an introduction to small unit leadership by shadowing a junior officer aboard a Navy ship, submarine, or with a squadron. This experience, known as PROTRAMID, offers exposure to various warfare communities including Surface Warfare, Submarine Warfare, Aviation, and the Marine Corps.

On their First Class cruise (before senior year), midshipmen serve in a more active leadership role under the mentorship of a junior officer and get a clearer sense of what their service selection might involve.

Each type of vessel or unit provides unique experiences and challenges and gives the midshipmen a broad perspective of the range of naval operations. These cruises can take midshipmen to various locations around the globe. It's a chance not just for professional development but for personal growth and adventure as well. Keep in mind, while these are demanding experiences, they are also learning opportunities that will enhance your skills and prepare you for your future role as an officer in the Navy or Marines.