If you lined up all the boaters who have been touched by a story, column, or book Chris Caswell wrote, they would likely stretch across an ocean and back again. During his 50-plus-year career as a marine journalist, Chris held myriad editorial staff roles, but his most enduring work came as a contributing writer for brands such as Power & Motoryacht, Passagemaker, Yachting, Sail, Cruising World, and countless others. His unique blend of humor and authority earned him legions of devoted readers along with numerous industry awards. On Wednesday, May 13, Chris passed away, leaving an enduring legacy in his wake.
I first met Chris nearly 12 years ago at Ocean Reef Club’s Vintage Weekend, a favorite event of his because it married his love of classic cars and classic boats. Already established as a legend within marine publishing—a talented writer who worked diligently at his craft—we met at a time when I was just cutting my teeth in the industry. Chris gave me a warm welcome into the small, quirky fraternity that is marine journalism. He offered formative perspective and advice that I like to think still serves me well to this day.
A genuine boat nut who lived and breathed our shared pastime, Chris was fond of saying that he had owned more boats in his lifetime than he wanted his wife or accountant to know about. An ardent sailor, he again offered advice and support when I went through my own phase of sailboat restoration. When I bought my next boat, a Bertram 28, we once again found common ground. Chris had owned multiple 28s himself. Shortly after I bought the boat, Chris sent me a package of Bertram paraphernalia, including custom-made stickers. One of those stickers has held a permanent place on the laptop I’ve written with for the past five years. It will always make me think of him.
Still processing his passing, it brings a smile to my face to imagine that he’s not gone, but simply away on his final assignment, cruising atop gin-clear water. Fair winds and following seas, my friend.
