- 501 (c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Call Us - 772-283-8130
Call Us - 772-283-8130
“. . . There is a magic about the sea. I believe if someone tries to make his life’s work out of it, he will find fulfillment no other work can offer. I believe the magic will rub off on many who would never had the opportunity without the School to which I have proudly lent my name . . .”
– Charles Fredrick Chapman, Co-Founder, 1971
The Charles F. Chapman School of Seamanship, Inc. was founded in 1971 by the late Glen D. Castle and the late Charles Frederic Chapman and incorporated in Florida in 1972. Castle, an experienced mariner, and Chapman, the veteran boating editor of Motor Boating & Sailing and author of the best-selling Chapman Piloting & Seamanship, made an interesting combination.
Because of their love for the sea and concern for the lack of maritime vocational training other than from four-year institutions, they joined together to found the nonprofit institution to which Chapman gave his name.
Classes began at the School on board a 93 ft. former Canadian Coast Guard cutter gifted by Canadian monks. From its humble beginnings, the School grew from one vessel/classroom to a 9-acre campus. Enrollment went from 3 students to over 1,100 a year and to a training fleet of up to an average of 30 vessels. After weathering some stormy seas early on, the School is now recognized as a world-renowned maritime institution.
Charles Chapman’s influence in the yachting community combined with Glen Castle’s experience as a yacht captain opened doors to careers in the marine industry and enjoyable boating for well-trained men and women.
Following Captain Castle’s death in 1983, his widow, Jennifer Castle Field, steadied the helm for over 40 years by providing determination, a strong business sense, and building a talented, dedicated crew to successfully guide the School into its fifth decade of operation. Jennifer recently retired in January 2024 and currently serves on the Board of Directors.
The premier maritime educational institution that meets the evolving and expanding training and certification needs of tomorrow’s mariners.
Founded in 1971, Chapman School of Seamanship provides certifications for professional mariners, and safe boating instruction for recreational boaters, through “learn at the helm” and classroom instruction.
