Travel to any of more than 100 ports of call worldwide Ports

Australia. China. Japan. Spain. What seem like far away places to most could provide the backdrop for stories you’ll write home about. With more than 100 bases and ports of call across the globe, nothing brings the world into focus more that being a member of America’s Navy. Travel will broaden your worldview, round out your experiences and expand your perspective. It will also deepen your appreciation for the vastly different cultures and customs out there.

Depending on events and circumstances, America’s Navy could conceivably be found virtually anywhere on earth. Below you can read highlights of some of the more interesting international ports of call that you may pass through in the course of service.

And keep in mind, there are also the many bases and homeports – both at home and abroad – that Navy servicemembers, ship and submarines operate out of.

Alexandria, Egypt, Port

Alexandria was built by the Greeks in 4th century BC under the orders of Alexander the Great. It was home to several of the wonders of the ancient world, including the legendary lighthouse and library, and was the setting for the story of the ill-fated Antony and Cleopatra.

Today, Alexandria is one of Egypt’s main ports. Besides a bustling trade, it is one of the Middle East’s premier resorts, with 140 miles of shoreline dotted with white sand beaches.

Alexandria is also home to numerous ruins and monuments of Egyptian, Greek and Roman origin. It is about 100 miles from Cairo, Egypt’s capital and site of the famous pyramids and tombs of the Pharaohs.

Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China, Port

As an economic and cultural center, Hong Kong is one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in the world, home to exciting nightlife, some of the best shopping in the world, and an intense pace of life.

Once a British holding, Hong Kong is now controlled by the People’s Republic of China. You’re sure to be intrigued by the city’s unique cultural background, which is part European and part Asian.

Rio de Janeiro, Port

Relax as you stroll down the long beaches of Rio de Janeiro, one of Brazil’s most attractive and popular cities. All of life centers on the shore in Rio, which is home to the legendary Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.

Rio is a major port, a tourism hotspot and one of the most tranquil, yet fashionable, cities in the world. While the beaches of Rio beckon, the hills and mountains surrounding the city offer spectacular views too. And a springtime highlight is the Carnival, a massive, Mardi Gras-like celebration.

Rota, Spain, Naval Station

Operated jointly by the United States and Spain, U.S. Naval Station Rota, serves as the gateway to the Mediterranean for America’s Navy. Just west of the Straits of Gibraltar, Rota is a major supply depot and support facility for the U.S. Sixth Fleet, which is based in Naples, Italy. (An extensive transportation system throughout Europe also gives those stationed in Rota a great opportunity for travel.)

Enjoy the semi-tropical climate of southern Spain, and venture out to visit the nearby city of Sevilla, which offers the chance to immerse yourself in Spanish history, culture and architecture.

St. Petersburg, Russia, Port

Peter the Great, Russia’s Tsar, built St. Petersburg in the early 1700s with the help of European architects and engineers. The classic European style of the city makes it a paradise for anyone interested in museums and architecture. It boasts massive palaces, grand cathedrals, and stunning canals and promenades.

During the Cold War, the city was called Leningrad. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, it’s been reopened to tourism. The city’s weather is mild despite its far northern location. It’s so far north, in fact, that the sun never sets during the last week of June.

Sydney, Australia, Port

One of America’s closest allies in the Pacific is a common stop for America’s Navy. Sydney, Australia’s biggest city and port, is host to an exciting mix of nightlife, beaches and recreation. Sydney Harbor is widely regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular bays with its world-famous Opera House.

Australia offers many outdoor activities for those who have some time to spend. Here, you’ll find surfing, sailing and diving, along with shopping and sightseeing. To the north is the tropical Great Barrier Reef, while Australia’s wilderness offers challenging hikes and other recreational opportunities.

There’s a great world out there waiting. Come and explore it in America’s Navy.