Honoring Captain Jim Chambers

Good evening everyone,

Tonight, Liberty Yacht Club has the privilege of recognizing someone who has not only been a cornerstone of our community, but also a true force in New York Harbor. It is my great honor to celebrate and award Honorary Membership to a man whose name is synonymous with dedication, generosity, and getting things done—Captain Jim Chambers. 

Board of Governors member Greg Kyle, Commodore Caroline Kornutik and Capt. Jim Chambers. Photo: Cristina Hubbell

Jim cut his teeth in boating as a sailor around City Island, New York—an early beginning that gave him the seamanship, grit, and love for the water that would carry him through a lifetime on the harbor. From those formative years, he grew into one of the most trusted mariners in this region. Many of you also know that before fully devoting himself to the maritime world, Captain Chambers served as an officer with the New York Police Department, marine division. In addition, he has shared his knowledge and experience as an expert witness on marine casualty cases—further underscoring his reputation as one of the most respected voices in the harbor community.

Board of Governors member Greg Kyle and Capt. Jim Chambers. Photo: Caroline Kornutik

Today, Jim is the proud owner of Osprey Maritime Services, a company known for its reliability and professionalism throughout the harbor. But beyond his business, Jim has always been the go-to person when something needed to happen—whether it was coordinating with agencies, solving problems, or lending a steady hand to ensure success. Jim is truly an elder statesman of Liberty Yacht Club and the New York Harbor community. His wisdom, experience, and steady guidance have helped shape not only our club but the broader maritime network that thrives here.His contributions extend far beyond his business. Many of you know Jim as a long-standing member of Liberty Yacht Club, someone who has given not only his time but also his resources to help our club flourish. For years, Jim has generously donated the use of his boat as our committee boat—providing the backbone for the Liberty Cup Regatta. Thanks to his support and commitment, the Liberty Cup has grown into the premier event it is today, drawing sailors from near and far, and this weekend we celebrate the 14th running of this extraordinary regatta.

Jim’s impact is also felt in his partnership with organizations across the harbor. Working alongside Liberty Yacht Club and colleagues in the US Coast Guard, he has helped strengthen relationships, reinforce safety, and elevate sailing in the region. His quiet leadership and willingness to step up time and again have left a lasting mark on all of us.

Captain Chambers, tonight we honor not just your accomplishments, but your spirit of generosity, service, and camaraderie. You embody what Liberty Yacht Club stands for, and it is with immense gratitude and pride that we present you with Honorary Membership. Please join me in celebrating and thanking Captain Jim Chambers—our friend, our elder statesman, and our inspiration on and off the water.

LLa Penich, Capt. Jim Chambers' boat at Liberty Cup Regatta September 2025. Photo: Kevin LeCompte