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Sailors can be deployed across the world on extensive deployments that can last months. From supporting British Overseas Territories hit by humanitarian disasters, to full scale Carrier Strike Group deployments, personnel spend intensive periods on duty while travelling thousands of nautical miles.
For the families, the hope is their nearest and dearest can be back home with them in time for Christmas. The biggest Royal Navy homecoming took place on November 30, as HMS Prince of Wales sailed to HMNB Portsmouth alongside HMS Dauntless and Norwegian frigate HNoMS Roald Amundsen.
Thousands of people lined the Hot Walls and other parts of the city to welcome the UK Carrier Strike Group home. Families of personnel held brilliant signs and dressed in bright costumes to catch the attention of their loved ones on the ships.
Here are a selection of pictures from festive Royal Navy homecomings over the years. Be sure to click through all the pages to see if you can spot yourself.
1. Royal Navy Christmas homecomings over the years
Warrant Officer Daz Hemmings (54) reunited with his family at HMNB Portsmouth. HMS Duncan conducted a Christmas homecoming from the Mediterranean in December 2024. | Mike Cooter (081224)
2. Royal Navy Christmas homecomings over the years
Petty Officer Gary Russell (35) with his daughter Rosie (3). HMS Duncan conducted a Christmas homecoming from the Mediterranean in December 2024. | Mike Cooter (081224)
3. Royal Navy Christmas homecomings over the years
Commanding Officer Commander Daniel Lee (40) with daughters Jemima (9) and Abigail (8). HMS Duncan conducted a Christmas homecoming from the Mediterranean in December 2024. | Mike Cooter
4. Royal Navy Christmas homecomings over the years
Family and friends gathered to welcome the arrival of HMS Duncan at HMNB Portsmouth. HMS Duncan conducted a Christmas homecoming from the Mediterranean in December 2024. | Mike Cooter (081224)