Greetings from Guantanamo Bay
Located near the southeastern tip of Cuba, the NSGB is warm and humid with rain at different times throughout the year. There’s a combination of flat land and hilly areas with a variety of tropical and desert plant life. NSGB is situated on the bay with access to several beaches. The views of the Caribbean ocean from here are spectacular.
W. T. Sampson is a Unit School, providing educational opportunities for approximately 250 NSGB students from Sure Start/Pre-K through 12th grade. The enrollment size allows its teachers the opportunity to better learn and address their students’ academic strengths and needs. Even though the school is small, extracurricular activities are offered, including student clubs and athletics. The construction of an entirely new 21st century replacement school is currently underway and is scheduled to open in 2021.
- Free family housing equipped with major appliances and free utilities
- Access to on-base school and activity centers for teens and youth
- Employment opportunities for accompanying family members
- Very short commutes from housing to work sites and free public transportation
- Cell phone and Internet service is available
- Holiday (Christmas) break paid travel orders for round trip travel to Jacksonville
- Free or inexpensive recreation like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, golfing, cycling, bowling, boating, and beach activities
- Free 24-hour Fitness Center
- Free nightly movie showings of first-run movies
For more details about the benefits, services and amenities available at NSGB, take a look at the Info for Applicants and Reassignments and other information sources listed under Resources.
Living and working at NSGB is not, however, for everyone. There is no access to the rest of Cuba, and transiting on and off base (via air only) may be difficult at certain times, as getting a seat on a particular flight is not always guaranteed. The weather is either hot or warm all year long, with little change in seasons. While there is an on-base hospital, those with medical conditions requiring frequent visits or treatment may not find their particular services available. Mail and package delivery also takes longer than at Continental United States locations. Security considerations can impact photography and other hobbies.
Life at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay offers adventure, challenge, and opportunity unequaled in any other locale. Your adventure awaits!