Brian Larkin’s family has been in Brooklin since 1740, and as much as coastal Maine resides in Brian’s blood, so does boatbuilding. His grandfather and great-grandfather were both boatbuilders and captains, so it seems only natural that he would make wooden boatbuilding his career. Today, Brian is one of the best.   

Brian started at Brooklin Boat Yard in 1987 after college, and he’s filled many different roles since. By his mid-30s, he held the job of Lead Carpenter, and he held the position of Project Manager until January of 2023 when he assumed the role as President.

Brian says his heart leans toward restoration work because of the challenge. “You get to push the envelope; nothing is ever the same,” says Brian. Here, he points out the beauty of combining traditional work with modern technology. “Almost every job here demands some sort of new innovation,” says Brian.  

Brian admits that managing people didn’t come easy to him, but he’s no stranger to a challenge. He’s built over forty boats while working for Brooklin Boat Yard, and every boat required problem solving. 

“It’s all down to personality here,” explains Brian, “As long as you’ve got the right attitude and have an open mind, you’re our kind of crew member.” 

Brian lives in Brooklin with his wife and his Great Pyrenees, Torrey. He is both a father and a grandfather.