Check in with marina manager Amanda St. Peter of DiMillo’s Marinas in Kennebunkport and Portland, ME in this new edition of Port Personality.
What brought you to this marina?
When I was 15, I began working for the DiMillo family’s restaurant, which floats in the center of DiMillo’s Marina. In 2011, when the former marina manager/dockmaster departed, Chris DiMillo asked if I would be interested in moving outside and learning to drive a boat and run the marina. Then, when he purchased our second facility in Kennebunk, I started running that one, too.
What’s the most fun part of your job?
Meeting new people and having an ever-changing view!
If you weren’t working at the marina, what job would suit you best?
Teaching high school algebra. I could use so many references to boating and slip assignments as examples of how you will someday use the math knowledge you are being taught.
What are the advantages or challenges of being a woman in the marina business?
My biggest challenges are less about gender and more about keeping up with the technology and maintenance of running two busy facilities, especially when I can’t be in two places at once. I am very fortunate to have a great staff to assist me with keeping it all together and running smoothly.
Describe yourself in three words.
Friendly, loyal, determined.
Where is your favorite place to visit by boat?
With such a short boating season in Maine and such a busy marina, I don’t get to travel by boat very far. But on a free afternoon, I love going to the Dolphin Marina & Restaurant in Harpswell, ME.
Name someone who taught you that anything is possible.
I have been fortunate to be surrounded by supportive parents, teachers, employers and co-workers who have always encouraged me and stuck by my side with support and enthusiasm to pursue any challenge!
What famous person would you most like to meet?
Patriots head coach, Bill Belichick.
What book do you believe every boater should read, and why?
Chapman Piloting & Seamanship by Charles Frederic Chapman, because it is an all-inclusive guide to boating that has a little bit of focus on everything you need to know.
What is your favorite part of the day at the marina?
Arrival time! It is so exciting to meet new people and to see friends from previous years return.
What is the nicest compliment a boater has given about your marina?
Whenever boaters compliment the staff and say they will be back for another stay, I know I did a good job at managing all the aspects of my job and giving them a great experience at our facility.
