John Guilliams

Woodshop manager

Joined the Crew in 2022

John Guilliams joined the Portland Yacht Services team in 2022 and brings two decades of hands-on craftsmanship to the wood shop. With ten years of experience in furniture making and three years in marine carpentry, his background is as rich as it is diverse. Before entering the boating industry, John restored brownstones in Washington, D.C., and built custom furniture for Broadway shows in New York City. Drawn to the complexity and problem-solving nature of yacht work, he found a perfect fit in the unique world of marine carpentry.



A fine art and art history graduate, John combines his creative eye with technical skill to tackle intricate yacht interiors and structural repairs. One of his most memorable projects was working on wooden-masted schooners, as well as a yacht equipped with both a submarine and a helicopter—an experience that speaks to the scale and uniqueness of the vessels he works on. He’s also an avid sailor himself, having spent 40 days last season aboard his 1974 Vineyard Vixen 29.

Outside of work, John enjoys live music and time on the water. What he values most about being at the boatyard is the shared pride and craftsmanship among his team. For him, the best part of the job is being surrounded by talented coworkers whose support and expertise help him achieve a level of precision and excellence demanded by high-end yachts. His advice for fellow boaters? Always check the weather—and develop a taste for canned fish.