Meet Our Crew

Born and raised in South Portland, Maine, Derek has spent his entire life on the water. Often when boating, he reflects upon the safety lessons his father and grandfather passed onto him during their summers on Cobbosseecontee Lake in West Gardiner. He feels truly privileged to be able to continue this tradition as he advises his children, Owen and Olivia, on safe boat handling.

In March 2002, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and spent over 20 years saving, assisting, and educating mariners and recreational boaters in some of the most hazardous waterways. Derek’s technical abilities in seamanship reached a milestone in April 2011, when he was awarded Coast Guard Surfman number 455. This prestigious honor is only bestowed upon the most highly trained and skilled boat handlers who are qualified to operate rescue boats in unpredictable and treacherous breaking surf conditions. It recognizes his technical proficiency in boat handling, sound leadership, and judgement.

In addition to being a USCG Licensed Captain, Derek is also a certified instructor for both the National Safe Boating Council and US Powerboat Handling courses.

In June 2022, Derek joined the Marina Holdings LLC team, taking on the role of Director of Training for Freedom Boat Club of Maine and Maine Boating Academy. With his nearly three decades of boating experience and exceptional training style, Derek helps boaters of all calibers gain more confidence and greater skills on the water.