Two couples touring Williamsburg took an afternoon sail for the History Cruise. They got more than that as we went under the Coleman Bridge and up to NWS Yorktown to see the USS Carney. Nearly hidden from view was a Navy submarine, recently arrived for an unknown mission.
I had an inkling of the sub when a Riverine fast boat bobbed and weaved at high speed down the York. They typically escort subs. Then a Moran tugboat followed an hour later, obviously from a delivery mission.
Critical Role
The Navy’s Atlantic Fleet Submarine Force, known as COMSUBLANT, plays a critical role in national defense, strategic deterrence and global maritime operations. Headquartered in Norfolk, the force oversees all submarine activities in the Atlantic Ocean, including operations, maintenance, training and readiness.
The Atlantic Fleet comprises a mix of nuclear-powered submarines, including ballistic missile submarines, attack submarines and guided missile submarines. They are designed for a range of missions. Everything from strategic deterrence and intelligence gathering to anti-submarine warfare and precision strike capabilities.
All Nukes
All submarines in the fleet are nuclear-powered, allowing them to operate submerged for extended periods without surfacing. That enhances their stealth and endurance.
Buck Dawson helmed the entire 3 hours. He plowed through 3-foot waves on a close reach and riding them diagonally on a beam reach. He mastered the technique of running the masthead through the slot of the bridge — twice.
Ballistic missile submarines, such as those of the Ohio-class, are the backbone of the Navy’s strategic deterrent. Armed with Trident II D5 missiles, these submarines patrol the Atlantic to ensure a credible second-strike capability in the event of a nuclear war.
Attack Subs
Attack submarines such as the Virginia-class and Los Angeles-class are more versatile. They conduct surveillance, support special operations, and engage enemy submarines and surface ships. Guided missile submarines carry a large payload of Tomahawk cruise missiles and support special operations. Tomahawks are what the load and unload at Yorktown NWS.
During World War II, U.S. submarines in the Atlantic were tasked with patrolling enemy waters. They also supported operations like the invasion of North Africa.
As we turned to leave the submarine, the afternoon sun reflected off the hull despite the dull black paint meant to show up as dark.
High Readiness
The Atlantic Fleet force continues to evolve with integration of unmanned systems, enhanced sonar capabilities and improved communication networks. The fleet maintains a high state of readiness to respond to threats, protect sea lanes, and uphold U.S. interests across the Atlantic and beyond.
Women enjoy sailing today more than ever, and particularly a romantic cruise. Couples get to enjoy a romantic getaway as they sit up on the bow for privacy, and Let’s Go Sail provides professional photos for free. First-time or skilled mariners are welcome to sail a modern-32-foot sailboat in a unique setting of wildlife and Fall foliage or Spring bloom. It makes for an extraordinary anniversary idea.
Let’s Go Sail
Check the “Book A Cruise” tab and pick a day for a sailboat charter. Scroll down reviews on Trip Advisor. Go back to the home page of Williamsburg Charter Sails.
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The best Williamsburg boat tour offers safe sailing daily for up to 6 people. It’s an extraordinary experience for couples. Leave your worries behind. Enjoy the thrill of moving with the wind without a care in the world. Put life back on an even keel with a romantic experience for a birthday or anniversary. 3-hour sailboat cruise as a semi-private yachting charter lets you exhale and relax as you enjoy comfort, stability and speed.
Ideal for Couples
Our York River sailboat tour offers an unforgettable boat adventure that is ideal for couples. Choose from five unique sailing charters: Adventure, Lessons, History, Boat Buying, Real Estate. We provide sailing for everyone. Couples enjoy the romance, and families enjoy the adventure. See openings at williamsburgchartersails.com under Book A Cruise.
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