John diPretoro

I was born and raised in Kingston, Rhode Island with some of my earliest memories being sailing with my family on Narragansett Bay and surrounding waters. I have always been connected to the sea. After high school, I joined the Coast Guard and spent 4 very interesting years, mostly offshore on a large cutter based out of Portland, rescuing migrants, lost sailors, and seizing lots of drugs. Afterwards, I earned a BA at the University of Southern Maine, stayed in the CG reserves, taught sailing, got my master’s license and eventually made my way to the boatyards Downeast. My first hitch was as a rigger and electrician at the Hinckley Company. Eventually, a few years later, my skills got noticed across the harbor and I was hired on as new boat project manager at Morris Yachts. I really enjoyed working with owners and their new boats but especially on the service side. When a chance came to become the service manager at Brooklin Boat Yard many years later, I accepted it and spent 12 happy years working and living along the Eggemoggin Reach. Time and tide wait for no man though, and circumstances suggested that my wife Christine, two kids Michelle & Rob and I move back towards southern & western Maine where I have lots of roots. The opportunity to work at DiMillo’s was an easy and happy choice. The crew are second to none in their genuine care and attention to detail. I’m honored to be a part of this organization.

When not working, I like to sail when possible, ski in the winter, watch the Patriots and Bruins, play golf (or what passes for it!) and fuss around the house as well as relaxing with family and neighbors.

John’s certifications:
-USCG Master 100 ton Near Coastal with Sail and Towing endorsements
-Marine Travelift Operator Certified
-Fork Truck Certified

John joined DiMillo’s in 2022.