Danny was raised on a sailboat as a child and had sailed between Seattle and Australia with his family by age 12. He received his first Captain’s license at age 19 and has continued to increase the scope of his education at various trade schools and training facilities.

He spent 12 years as an Engineer, 1st Mate, Captain, and Shipyard Project Manager in the small passenger vessel industry. Southeast Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Mexico and Hawaii were the areas where he cut his teeth in the maritime industry and grew to love boats, wildlife, and travel.

In 2019, Danny joined the Seattle Maritime Academy team as Port Captain, then transitioned into the Port Engineer role in 2024.  He also teaches Continuing Education courses in Marine Electrical and Outboard Motor Maintenance.

Danny currently holds a USCG 1600-ton Oceans Master’s license, FAA Private Pilot (Helicopter) license, PADI diver certification and certification as an ABYC Marine Electrician.

In his free time, Danny enjoys spending time with his family and tinkering in his home workshop.

With over thirty years of maritime experience, Capt. Rob Earle is dedicated to training and
mentoring new crew members, seasoned mariners, and recreational boat owners, ensuring they are well-prepared and safe on the water. Beginning his career as a steward on a small cruise ship, he steadily worked his way up to captain, earning a 1600-ton ocean master's license and STCW 3000-ton certifications. His experience spans a variety of vessels, including cruise ships, offshore supply vessels, research vessels, yachts, and fast ferries, reflecting a commitment to mentorship, safety, and operational excellence.

As a part-time instructor at Seattle Maritime Academy since Fall Quarter 2015, Capt. Earle has developed comprehensive training programs that emphasize safety, situational awareness, and industry standards, helping students of all backgrounds succeed in their maritime careers. In addition to his teaching, Capt. Earle is a two-time winner of the Stories of the Sea contest for his maritime writing, and he currently serves as an Executive Board member of the Seattle Colleges teachers union, AFT Local #1789.