California State University Maritime Academy - Cal Maritime

🌺 Tahiti Welcomes Cal Poly Maritime Academy 🌺

After 17 days at sea, Training Ship Golden Bear arrived in Papeete, Tahiti, marking a major milestone in the 2026 Summer Sea Term voyage.

Cadets were greeted with a vibrant Polynesian welcome featuring traditional music, dance and hospitality as they stepped ashore after crossing thousands of miles of open ocean. For many cadets, this was their first international port call and a chance to experience a new culture while representing Cal Poly Maritime Academy abroad.

From standing watch and navigating the Pacific to exploring one of the world's most beautiful island destinations, Summer Sea Term continues to deliver unforgettable Learn by Doing experiences.

Next stop: Fiji. ⚓

Crossing the equator at sea is a milestone few experience, and one that has long been part of maritime tradition. During the 2026 Summer Sea Term, cadets from Cal Poly Maritime Academy gathered on the bow of Training Ship Golden Bear to mark the moment they crossed into the Southern Hemisphere, earning their place among those who have sailed across 0° latitude through hands-on experience at sea. ⚓

Congratulations to Cadet Reid Burk of Cal Poly Maritime Academy, winner of the Administrator’s Challenge: Resetting the Terms of Competition essay competition hosted by the Maritime Administration (MARAD).

Burk’s winning essay, “Resetting the Terms of Competition: Reframing the Maritime Landscape to Advantage the United States,” was recognized during the Maritime Administration’s National Maritime Day event, highlighting the critical role the next generation of maritime leaders will play in strengthening America’s maritime industry and national security.

The recognition comes as Cadet Burk departed on his commercial cruise, continuing the hands-on industry training that defines the cadet experience at Cal Poly Maritime Academy.

Congratulations to Reid on this outstanding achievement and national recognition. ⚓

Happy National Maritime Day! 🌊

Today, we honor the legacy, resilience, and service of mariners past and present who keep our global economy moving.

We recognize the vital role of the U.S. Merchant Marine and maritime industry in national defense, global trade, and economic strength.

At Cal Poly Maritime Academy, we’re proud to help prepare the next generation to carry that legacy forward.

📷 2026 Summer Sea Term

Happy International Women in Maritime Day! 🌊

Today, we celebrate the trailblazing women shaping the future of the global maritime industry, from the bridge to the engine room and beyond.

Thank you to all the students, alumnae, faculty, and professionals leading the way.

Proud parents, families and friends gathered in Vallejo and on the Golden Gate Bridge to see off Cal Poly Maritime Academy cadets as Training Ship Golden Bear departed for its final Summer Sea Term voyage. ⚓

Summer Sea Term is the university’s signature experience, giving cadets the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge through hands-on training at sea while preparing to be .

🛳 She's on the move! Training Ship GOLDEN BEAR is heading from Suisun Bay Naval Reserve Fleet to Mare Island where shipboard classes will begin tomorrow for our cadets. 🎉

Wishing our Cadets the best of luck as they take their U.S. Coast Guard license exams! 🛳📚✏️

⚓ Proud moment for Cal Poly Maritime Academy!
Our students shined at the SF Marine Claims Association Luncheon & Association of Marine Underwriters of SF Annual Dinner—networking with top industry leaders and representing Cal Poly Maritime Academy with professionalism and pride.

🎉 Congrats on completing the AIMU Intern Education Program and making a lasting impression!