Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

Updated: September 11, 2023
In this Article

    The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, also known as the Portsmouth Navy Yard, is a United States Navy shipyard located in Kittery, Maine. The primary mission of the shipyard is the overhaul, repair, and modernization of submarines. 

    Base Operator:
    207-438-1000

    Address:
    Kittery, ME 03904

    Portsmouth Naval Shipyard History

    Established on June 12, 1800, during President John Adams’ term, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the Navy’s oldest continuously operating shipyard. Initially, it focused on building warships, launching its first, the 74-gun Washington, in 1814. The shipyard later transitioned to constructing submarines during World War I and evolved into the Navy’s hub for submarine design and development post-World War II.

    Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Housing

    There are some housing options with the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. To find what’s best for you, either on-base or off-base, call the Housing Referral Office at 207-348-2732.

    PCS and TDY Lodging

    Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers temporary lodging options on-base. The Combined Bachelors Quarters (CBQ) and the Navy Gateway Inn & Suites offers limited lodging units. Reservations can be made up to 90 days prior to arrival.  For more information, call 207-438-1513.

    What is the BAH for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?

    The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard varies depending on rank, years of service and dependency status. Visit the Maine state BAH page or see the chart below for more information.

    PORTSMOUTH, NH/KITTERY, ME BAH Rates

    Military Housing Area: NH194

    Grade With Dependents Without Dependents
    E01 $2,568 $1,974
    E02 $2,568 $1,974
    E03 $2,568 $1,974
    E04 $2,568 $1,974
    E05 $2,784 $2,211
    E06 $3,204 $2,403
    E07 $3,294 $2,574
    E08 $3,390 $2,874
    E09 $3,606 $2,991
    W01 $3,225 $2,502
    W02 $3,336 $2,871
    W03 $3,456 $3,006
    W04 $3,666 $3,225
    W05 $3,918 $3,315
    O01E $3,309 $2,778
    O02E $3,435 $2,967
    O03E $3,702 $3,198
    O01 $2,841 $2,346
    O02 $3,201 $2,712
    O03 $3,453 $3,051
    O04 $4,005 $3,294
    O05 $4,404 $3,351
    O06 $4,443 $3,438
    O07 $4,479 $3,495

    For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.

    Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Surrounding Area

    The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a United States Navy shipyard located in Kittery, Maine, near the city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The shipyard is situated on Seavey’s Island in the Piscataqua River, which is known for its swift tidal current that prevents ice from blocking navigation to the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding area boasts a rich history of shipbuilding dating back to colonial times, with nearby towns offering a variety of outdoor and recreational attractions.

    Healthcare

    On-base medical services can be found at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Branch Medical Clinic. This facility provides a range of specialty care services throughout the week, but is closed over the weekends. 

    Note: There is no emergency care services offered on-base, and would need to be sought at a nearby hospital. 

    Childcare

    The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard offers a Child Development Center on-base. It offers full day care for infants, toddlers and preschool aged children. There’s also school year care available for students during the school year. Summer camp care options are also available. 

    Schooling

    To learn about schooling options, contact the School Liaison Program at 207-438-2466.

    Written by Veteran.com Team