Safe Harbor Academy
Safe Harbor Academy

Transformational “Sea Change”

We provide a structured transformational setting and educational alternative for boys, age 14-17, who may otherwise end up in harsher state-run juvenile programs.

Boys in minor trouble with the law, expelled from school, who are exhibiting bad behavior are counseled and mentored by our team. They learn responsibility, self-respect, and respect for others, while they also have the opportunity to learn a vocation.

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Safe Harbor

Helping Boys Since 1984

 

boys home and maritime academy

The Safe Harbor is a registered private school in the State of Florida, but we enroll students from across America. Our academic philosophy is built on the belief that education is a lifelong process and occurs in every area of life.

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Safe Harbor Program Summary

Safe Harbor Academy is a Christian boarding school and residential boys home in Jacksonville, Florida, helping struggling and at-risk teenage boys ages 14–17 discover a better direction for their lives. For more than 40 years, Safe Harbor has provided boys with the structure, encouragement, education, and positive relationships they need to move beyond behavioral problems, academic struggles, defiance, negative peer influences, and other challenges. In a supportive Christian environment, boys learn accountability, strengthen their character, rebuild confidence, and begin making better choices for their future.

Unlike traditional boarding schools for troubled boys, Safe Harbor offers a remarkable waterfront experience where learning extends far beyond the classroom. Seamanship, sailing, boating, maritime training, vocational education, and hands-on projects become powerful tools for teaching responsibility and preparing boys for adulthood. Students help maintain vessels, work on practical projects, develop valuable job and life skills, and may have opportunities to pursue maritime skills and certifications. Through real responsibilities and meaningful accomplishments, boys develop discipline, teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and the satisfaction that comes from a job well done.

Safe Harbor is more than a school—it is an opportunity for a young man to experience a genuine change in direction. Academics, Christian mentoring, counseling, vocational training, maritime experiences, and a structured daily routine work together to help each boy recognize his strengths and realize that his past does not have to determine his future. Safe Harbor calls this transformation a “Sea Change”—helping struggling boys leave behind destructive patterns, discover purpose and confidence, and chart a new course toward becoming responsible, capable, and successful young men.

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What People Say About Safe Harbor

“I just want to express our gratitude to you and the staff at Safe Harbor (past and present). We appreciate your efforts with Matthew and are thrilled that he has a H.S. diploma. Safe Harbor has enriched his life and his parents. Many thanks and blessings.”

-Cindy & Tom

“It has been my pleasure to day-sail with several of the boys enrolled at Safe Harbor Academy on sailboats they refurbish and maintain. Many of the boys are beginner sailors and have received excellent sailing and safe boat handling instruction from the Safe Harbor Academy staff and volunteers. The boys are alert to river traffic and understand the inland waterway navigation aides. They communicate effectively on course adjustments to operate safely on a busy commercial stretch of the St Johns River. We need more boaters on our local waterways trained to operate boats safely like these boys at Safe Harbor Academy.”

-Dale S

“I am a Past Commander and current Educational Officer of the Jacksonville Sail and Power Squadron. We are very luck to be involved with Safe Harbor and the young men instructing them on Safe Boating, Good Seamanship and Boating Skills. It is amazing to see how much the boys grow week to week. There are a lot of life skills taught you will not find a more polite group of Gentleman. A very Special and Amazing School with the dedication of Robbie, Doug and Staff.”

-Tom A

“Here are some updates on my boy…he is in college, with a 4.0 GPA (he had F’s and D’s when he first started your program). It has been fun watching him grow and become a fine young man! We attend church on regular basis, and he is looking to join a local youth group. Best regards to you and all at the Harbor and to all who work so hard and so willingly with the boys!”

-Parent

“Our son has been doing very well and has become quite motivated towards his future. He has learned so very much, and we are quite proud of him. We just cannot thank you enough for being there for us. You have been an incredible blessing in our lives.”

-Tex and Nanette

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