Sam Darling
Owner/ President
Over 15 years in boat building and repair.
Sam grew up sailing on Lake Champlain aboard his parents’ Herreshoff Rozinante, where his appreciation for classic boats—and the lake—took root early.
He began working at Darling’s Boatworks while in high school and continued through summers in college, learning the craft from the ground up. After graduating from Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Sam spent three years sailing as a mate for Otto Candies, operating supply and subsea inspection vessels in the Gulf of Mexico.
In 2016, he returned to Vermont and rejoined the shop during breaks between offshore shifts. By fall 2017, he transitioned to working full time. In the spring of 2024, Sam completed a multi-year buyout of the business, stepping into ownership with deep respect for its legacy and a clear vision for its future.
Today, Sam leads the business with a focus on craftsmanship, customer collaboration, and thoughtful growth. He is committed to maintaining the high standards the shop is known for while adapting to meet the evolving needs of modern boat owners. Under his direction, the team continues to blend traditional techniques with smart innovation, ensuring every project—whether restoration or repair—is handled with precision and pride.
Sam and his partner, Caroline—owner of Mola Hoods—live in Charlotte. Caroline is an avid sailor who races in regattas throughout the Northeast. Together, they enjoy time on the water, working on their homestead, and making the most of Vermont’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
George Darling
Founder / Consultant
Over 50 years in boatbuilding and repair
These days, George can often be found sailing the coast of Maine as he gradually eases into retirement. He and his wife, Pam, live in Charlotte and are avid sailors, skiers, and cyclists who enjoy making the most of Vermont’s seasons.
George began his career in the 1970s at Shelburne Shipyard, where he quickly rose to the position of shop foreman. In 1985, he founded Darling’s Boatworks, working out of a repurposed horse barn at Point Bay Marina. As the business grew, it relocated to its current facility just a few miles inland. When Point Bay Marina later expanded and built a new shop, George recognized the value of maintaining a presence there—an enduring partnership that continues to this day.
Pam Darling
Varnish Specialist- retired
Over 40 years in Varnish and Painting
For over 40 years, Pam mastered the art of varnishing—balancing the precision of her craft with the equally demanding work of raising a family.
Her steady hand and eye for detail became hallmarks of the shop’s finish work. Outside of the workshop, Pam finds joy in her gardens and has recently embraced pickleball with the same enthusiasm she brought to her craft. When winter arrives, she trades the paddle for skis, enjoying both cross-country and downhill days on the snow.skiing.
Peter Russett
Paint Foreman / Expert in fiberglass and wood
Over 40 years in boat building and repair
Peter began working alongside George at Shelburne Shipyard and has been with Darling’s Boatworks for over 40 years.
In addition to his work at the shop, he has contributed to notable projects beyond its walls—most prominently, building Miss Universe in collaboration with Tom Hill. Peter brings a diverse and well-honed skill set to every job and takes great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of his work.
Ben Swanton
IYRS Graduate/ Shipwright/ Schooner Aficionado.
Over 10 years in boatbuilding and repair
Ben grew up sailing on his family’s boat in Michigan before making his way to the East Coast. After attending IYRS, he gained valuable experience working with French and Webb as well as Wooden Boatworks. When he and his wife moved to Vermont, he joined the Adirondack Guide Boat Company. Ben began working at Darling’s Boatworks in 2018, where he has established himself as a talented shipwright with a deep understanding of wooden boat construction and repair methods.
Lucia Pendolino
Merchant Mariner/ Refinishing/ Rigger.
Lucia grew up in South Hero, Vermont, and developed her passion for boats early on. She has worked at the Lake Champlain Community Sailing Center and with the Whistling Man Schooner Company. It was there, with the Schooner Company, that she first took on maintenance tasks and learned the ins and outs of caring for a vessel that regularly carries many passengers.
Lucia joined us for the winter season of 2023–24 before heading off a summer of adventures. She rejoined in November of 2024 and continues to learn and grow her skill set within the company.
Oliver Berry
Composite Repair/ Fabrication/ Refinishing Specialist/ NMEA certified.
Over 15 years in boatbuilding and repair.
Oliver began his career at Crawford Boat Building in Massachusetts, where he specialized in building Melonseed Skiffs. This experience helped him develop a diverse skill set that he now applies to the wide variety of projects we take on at the shop.
When he’s not working, Oliver enjoys fishing, hiking, and farming. Recently, he has been focused on improving land which he plans to transform into an integrated garden system.