Meet Captain John DeBaun

Captain John DeBaun’s life on the water began at just 13 years old, when he restored, rebuilt, and operated his first boat while working at a marina in Somers Point, New Jersey. In 1976, John joined the United States Coast Guard as an Able-Bodied Seaman, serving through 1980. During his service, he became qualified to operate a wide range of Coast Guard vessels, including 44-foot motor lifeboats, and accumulated thousands of hours underway, often at night and in challenging surf and weather conditions, while performing search-and-rescue missions and towing operations.

John’s passion for boating continued long after his Coast Guard service. He owned, operated, and maintained a 27-foot center console for 31 years before earning his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License with a 100-Ton Master upgrade in February 2020. In 2021, he purchased a 32-foot sailboat, which he continues to operate for charter excursions. His experience also includes owning and operating a 33-foot Sea Ray Sundancer, and in 2026, he added a 28-foot twin-outboard center console to his charter fleet.

With more than five decades of hands-on boating experience, Captain John brings an exceptional level of seamanship, local knowledge, and respect for the water to Cape Sailing Adventures. Whether you’re joining him for a relaxing sail, a day on the water, or an unforgettable coastal adventure, you’ll be in the hands of a captain who has spent a lifetime doing what he loves.