I'm interested in joining the Naval Academy and would like to know more about the training ships they use. What are the ships like, and how often do cadets get to train on them? Any personal experiences would be awesome!
The United States Naval Academy (USNA), located in Annapolis, Maryland, indeed uses training ships as part of its immersive and comprehensive education and training process.
There are two types of training vessels used by USNA: Yard Patrol craft (YPs) and Sail Training Craft (STCs). The Yard Patrol craft are twin screw, 108-foot vessels used for teaching seamanship, navigation, and marine engineering skills. There are 14 of these vessels, and they're usually manned by a crew of students led by a professional Navy Petty Officer. These patrol craft are often used in summer training, taking midshipmen on cruises to ports such as Norfolk, Boston, Philadelphia, or New York.
The Sail Training Craft are used to help midshipmen learn hundreds of skills, starting with the basics such as knot tying and progressing to advanced celestial navigation. Participating in STC programs often includes opportunities for intercollegiate competition, offshore sailing, and STC ocean races, where midshipmen can further develop their teamwork, judgement, and resilience.
In terms of frequency, it varies depending on the on-going schedule. However, it's common for midshipmen to have multiple experiences in both summer training and during the academic year with Yard Patrol craft and Sail Training Craft.
As for personal experiences, while I cannot share my own, many midshipmen have noted the value and enjoyment they gained from their training aboard these vessels. Whether testing navigation skills, engineering knowledge, or just strengthening team camaraderie, these experiences are often seen as challenging but significantly beneficial aspects of the Naval Academy experience.
Keep in mind that the Naval Academy is about much more than time spent on training ships. It is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the Navy or Marine Corps. This includes a robust academic program, physical training, and ethical and moral development.
I hope this helps you in your quest to joining the Naval Academy and best of luck in your future endeavors!
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