I'm pretty sure it’s "Sea for the Shore" copyright 1987 by James Keelaghan, Cathy Cook and Stephen Fearing.

From the blurb included with James’ "Timelines" CD which was re-issued in 1992:

"This was written, mostly in my sister’s front room in Vancouver, from where it is very easy to hear the call of the freighters. I have to take responsibility for the words and the intent (i.e. that giving oneself to love always entails the loss of part of yourself. I like to think of it as trading up however). This is the Calgary version of the song. For the Vancouver version you’ll have to get Stephen Fearing’s album."

Frank Phillips