Eight Bells for Captain James Waddell
Satori Sailing, Marblehead MA
NauticEd Students and Community,
It is with heavy hearts during this holiday season that we share the news and toll the 8 Bells for the passing of Captain James Waddell from Satori Sailing, a beloved member of our extended NauticEd family. Captain “Jim” was not just an exceptional sailor but an extraordinary teacher who touched the lives of countless students with his passion, wisdom, and dedication to his students – both in education and in sailing.
Through his work with Satori Sailing, Captain Jim embodied the spirit of adventure and lifelong learning that lies at the heart of all accomplished sailors – embodying the rich history of Marblehead sailors who are renowned for their skill, intelligence, and compassion. His enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge, his calm-fun demeanor on the water, and his genuine care for every student he taught made him an inspiration to all who had the privilege of learning from him.
To honor his memory, we encourage you to take a moment during your next sail to reflect on the lessons of joy and learning that he found on the water — a joy that binds us as sailors. For those who wish to share more, please feel welcome to reach out, and we would be honored to pass your thoughts along.
Fair winds and following seas, Captain Jim.
– The NauticEd Team
About Captain Waddell
Capt. Jim Waddell was known as a builder of community and a born teacher throughout his adult life. Jim’s wonderful legacy is deeply connected with his late wife Nancy who was his great partner of 50 years. This beloved couple met at Merrimack College, were soon married and had two sons, Chris and Matt. Jim and Nancy shared a love of people along with a deep commitment to service. Jim and Nancy lived in Hampton, NH where Jim served as a New Hampshire State Representative, and as Selectman. Jim was also the Director of the Waterville Valley Adaptive Ski Program and sailing instructor for Satori Sailing and Nauticed.
Jim’s enthusiasm for the sport of sailing was felt by all his students along with his kind, jovial presence and sense of humor. Jim was a natural born teacher and sailor which made for an incredible experience for his students. Whether he was teaching sailing or adaptive skiing in the winter, Jim had an incredible commitment for teaching excellence with an inclusive approach for all of his students.
Capt. Jim will be greatly missed by all of us at Satori Sailing.
Capt. James Ashton
Founder
Satori Sailing
Testaments to a Sailing Life Well Lived
There’s no better way to honor Capt. Waddell’s dedication to his students than through their own words. He is an inspiration to all sailing instructors—a true sailor and an extraordinary educator whose passion and guidance left an indelible mark on everyone he taught.
What does 8 Bells mean?
In sailing tradition, “8 bells” is a symbolic way to honor a sailor who has passed away. It signifies the end of their watch and is a solemn tribute to mark the completion of their life journey.
On ships, time is traditionally measured in four-hour watches, with a bell struck every half-hour. Eight bells indicate the end of a full watch, and in the context of a sailor’s passing, it represents the completion of their final watch in life. Eight Bells is often accompanied by the sentiment of “fair winds and following seas,” or sometimes just a toast “to those at sea,” wishing the departed sailor peace and calm on their next journey.
These traditions carry deep respect and are a meaningful way to honor the life and contributions of a sailor. It’s also a responsibility to others to follow in their wake.
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