Rob Benson

Service Writer

Joined the Crew in 2002

Rob Benson has been an integral part of the boatyard since 2002, serving as a Service Writer with an impressive 55 years of experience in the maritime industry. His expertise spans a commercial background, time as a yacht captain, and handling vessels from 10-foot dinghies to commercial vessels. His extensive training includes a Maritime Deck certification from 1981, studies in design at the Landing School in 1990, and as a Landing School systems instructor assistant. Rob’s deep-rooted passion for boating started early—his family's first boat, a Cheoy Lee Offshore 31, delivered in 1968, sparked a lifelong love for cruising, sailing, and racing. Growing up around Chick’s Marina, he learned the value of hands-on experience, advice, and teamwork in maintaining and repairing boats.

Rob enjoys working on older boats, particularly those made of wood and fiberglass. One of his most memorable projects was restoring a 15-foot wooden skiff built in the 1940s-50s, featuring an engine well and double-diagonal planked bottom. Another standout project involved refoaming the deck of a 17-foot Whaler used in the oyster industry and customizing its interior with a sleek sport-style finish. His commitment to honesty is at the core of his customer service—he ensures boat owners understand the costs of services upfront and provides clear, reliable information. His key advice to boaters is simple but crucial: always watch the weather and plan accordingly.

Outside of work, Rob enjoys mountain biking on local trails and is an avid skier, having started at the age of five. When he’s not on the water or in the boatyard, you can often find him following the ski resorts in the winter. What he values most about working at the boatyard is the strong sense of teamwork, especially in the office. Whether answering customer questions or finding solutions, the team collaborates to provide the best service possible.

For Rob, the best part of his job is starting the day early, opening up the office, and seeing projects progress from start to finish. He takes pride in discussing jobs, providing answers, and being part of a company that has grown from a small operation into a thriving shipyard with nearly 60 employees. His wealth of experience and dedication make him a vital part of the team and a trusted resource for boat owners.