Meet The Owners

Phineas Sprague Jr. and his wife, Joanna, are prominent figures in Portland, Maine's maritime community, best known as the founders and operators of Portland Yacht Services (PYS). Their journey is marked by a deep-seated passion for sailing, a commitment to service, and significant contributions to the preservation and development of Portland's waterfront.

Early Life and Sailing Adventures

Phineas Sprague Jr., often referred to as Phin, developed a love for the sea early in life. His maritime adventures began in earnest after his graduation from Harvard University, when he embarked on a four-year circumnavigation aboard the 72-foot schooner Mariah. This extensive voyage not only honed his sailing skills but also deepened his appreciation for maritime culture and the complexities of life at sea.

It was during this journey that Phin met Joanna, a registered nurse with a familial background in boating. Their shared love for sailing led Joanna to join the crew of Mariah in Panama, and the couple married aboard the schooner in Bali on Christmas Day in 1975. This partnership, forged on the high seas, would become the cornerstone of their future endeavors in the maritime industry.

Founding of Portland Yacht Services

In 1981, leveraging their sailing experiences and maritime knowledge, Phin and Joanna established Portland Yacht Services. Located initially on Fore Street in Portland, PYS began as a full-service boatyard and marina dedicated to providing comprehensive services for both motor and sailing vessels. Their mission was clear: to ensure that boat owners could enjoy a worry-free experience, whether through maintenance, storage, or extensive refits and restorations.

Under their leadership, PYS cultivated a reputation for excellence, attracting a diverse clientele ranging from small rowboats to substantial commercial vessels. The Spragues' commitment to quality service and their ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the maritime community were instrumental in the company's growth and success.

Expansion and Relocation

As the business expanded, the limitations of the Fore Street location became apparent. In the early 2010s, Phin and Joanna made the strategic decision to relocate PYS to a more accommodating site on West Commercial Street. This move involved acquiring and redeveloping a 23-acre parcel of land, transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility capable of servicing larger vessels and accommodating advanced marine technologies.

The new location featured significant upgrades, including the installation of a 300-ton Travelift and the construction of expansive service buildings equipped with large bifold doors to facilitate the maintenance of sizable boats. These enhancements not only increased the yard's capacity but also underscored the Spragues' dedication to supporting Portland's working waterfront and maritime heritage.

Contributions to Maritime Education and Preservation

Beyond their business ventures, Phin and Joanna have been deeply involved in maritime education and preservation. Phin served as the founding president of Sail Maine, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community sailing programs, aiming to make sailing accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Their commitment to preserving maritime history is also evident in their stewardship of historic vessels. Notably, they own the 131-foot gaff-rigged schooner Harvey Gamage, a vessel with a storied past in sail training and education. Under their ownership, the schooner has continued to serve as a platform for experiential learning, offering students the opportunity to engage with traditional sailing practices and maritime culture.

Challenges and Resilience

The journey of Phin and Joanna has not been without challenges. The relocation of PYS involved navigating complex real estate transactions, environmental remediation efforts, and the inherent uncertainties of large-scale development projects. Their resilience and unwavering commitment to their vision enabled them to overcome these obstacles, resulting in a thriving enterprise that significantly contributes to Portland's maritime industry.

Legacy and Impact

Today, Portland Yacht Services stands as a testament to the Spragues' dedication and passion. The facility services a vast array of vessels, from recreational boats to commercial fishing vessels, embodying their inclusive approach to maritime services. Their efforts have not only bolstered the local economy but have also ensured that Portland's waterfront remains a vibrant hub of maritime activity.

Phin and Joanna's story is one of partnership, perseverance, and profound love for the sea. Through their endeavors, they have left an indelible mark on Portland's maritime landscape, inspiring future generations to appreciate and engage with the rich nautical traditions of Maine.