Sailing Beneath the Surface: NEP Participants Experience Life as Submariners
December 2, 2025 - Royal Canadian Navy
By Thomas Russell, Submarine Sustainment, Canadian Submarine Force Headquarters
Caption
The five NEP personnels that participated in the sail in front of HMCS Corner Brook. From left to right: S3 Brandon Dubé, S3 Jennifer Lemercier-Duquesnay, S3 Brandon Sieffert, S3 Shane Hartling and S3 Nicolas Soto.
Do you think you have what it takes to be a submariner? Have you ever wonder what it feels like to sail in a submarine? Most people wouldn’t know.
Members of Maritime Forces Pacific, including participants from the Naval Experience Program (NEP), had the chance to find out for themselves on October 5.
“This was the best naval experience so far,” said Sailor 3rd Class Jennifer Lemercier Duquesnay.
The group embarked aboard HMCS Corner Brook at the conclusion of Defence on the Dock for an overnight sail. During their time at sea, they experienced life aboard a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) submarine, including daily routines, torpedo drills, and surface manoeuvres.
“Submarine operations usually happen away from the spotlight, so it’s great that there was an opportunity to show new people what we do and ways they can contribute to our mission,”
said Lieutenant-Commander Clark Hubbard, Commanding Officer of HMCS Corner Brook. “This is a truly unique opportunity that few serving in the Navy will experience.”
The Canadian Submarine Force is entering a period of growth. Personnel joining now can expect to be at the forefront as the Force lays the foundation for the future fleet, as announced by the Government of Canada. However, not everyone is suited to life underwater.
“Submarines play a strategic role on behalf of Canada every time they sail, but they do operate in an austere environment,” said Commander Kristina Gray, Deputy Commander at the Canadian Submarine Force. “The close quarters and high operational tempo can be stressful for some. Others thrive knowing that they are part of small but elite unit. It can be a great life, but it isn’t for everyone.”
Personnel interested in learning more about the Canadian Submarine Force can follow the official accounts Canadian Submarine Force / Force des sous-marins canadiens on Facebook and @cansubfor on Instagram. Those considering a career as a submariner can also contact gosubs-allezsousmarins@forces.gc.ca for more information.