About Us

Dexter A. Holaday II started his career in the marine industry at the Noank Shipyard in Noank, CT in 1985. Genealogy research indicates that he is the fifth generation of his family to have worked at the Noank Shipyard, previously the Palmer Shipyard. In 1995, Dexter graduated from Maine Maritime Academy with a degree in Small Vessel Operations, a minor in Marina and Boatyard Management and a USCG 200-ton near coastal mate’s license. From there he worked simultaneously in the family marine surveying business along with marine repair and service work employment in Maine, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Most recently, he was the service manager at Brewer Yacht Yard Cowesett, RI (now Safe Harbor Marina) for over ten years. 

Dexter A. Holaday, Sr. (founder) started working at his uncle’s boatyard, Butson’s Boatyard (now Spicer’s Marina location) in Noank, CT at the age of 12. His marine career achievements included managing the Noank Shipyard, building and managing Black Swan Marina in Old Saybrook, CT (now Between the Bridges Marina) and Bayreuther Boat Yard in Niantic, CT (now Three Belles Marina). He also performed design and drafting work for John Atkin of Atkin & Co. His surveying career began under the tutelage of John Atkin in the 1970’s and early 1980’s.