Casco Bay Island Transit District, also known as Casco Bay Lines, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Dinsmore as its new General Manager. A seasoned maritime professional with over 25 years of global experience, Dinsmore brings deep operational expertise, strategic leadership, and a personal understanding of Maine’s island communities.
The Casco Bay Island Transit District is a quasi-municipal, non-profit corporation established in 1981. It has provided continuous public transit service to and from the islands of Casco Bay, seven days a week, 365 days a year for almost 45 years. Dinsmore’s appointment follows a national search and a unanimous vote of the Casco Bay Island Transit District Board of Directors. In his new role, he will guide the transit district through key initiatives, including fleet and operations modernization, capital planning, and continued service reliability.
Jennifer Lavanture, President, CBL Board of Directors said “The Board is excited to welcome Ben as our new General Manager following a robust search process. Casco Bay Lines is a cornerstone of our island communities, and we believe Ben not only brings the skills and vision to guide the District forward, but also the ability to lead and support the dedicated team that keeps the boats running every day. With Ben at the helm, we’re confident in a strong future for the District, its employees, and the year-round island communities we serve.”
Raised on Maine’s coast and the son of a Maine State Ferry Service captain, Dinsmore has built a career rooted in maritime leadership. He has captained large commercial vessels, overseen new vessel construction, and held senior roles overseeing marine operations in both offshore oil & gas and renewable energy sectors. He also previously owned R.E. Thomas Marine Hardware, a Downeast Maine-based engineering company that manufactures marine driveline components for a variety of vessels, including the iconic Maine lobster boat.
A graduate of Maine Maritime Academy with a degree in Marine Transportation, he later completed his MBA at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. His career includes eight years of commissioned service in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
“Growing up on the coast of Maine, I developed a deep respect for the working waterfront and island communities,” said Dinsmore. “I understand the seasonal rhythms of life on the islands and the unique challenges they bring. Casco Bay Lines is more than a ferry service; it’s a lifeline, a connector of communities, and a reflection of the people who call these islands home. I’m honored to help steward that mission.”
“Ben brings the strong leadership Casco Bay Lines needs as he steps into this new role,” said Nate Mills, President of the Casco Bay Lines’ union and Maine Maritime Association, and Senior Captain. “From captaining commercial vessels to leading offshore operations and running a Maine-based marine company, he will be a real asset to our crew and community.”
Dinsmore lives in Brunswick, Maine, with his wife Mary and their three teenage children. He officially assumed his new role on September 15, 2025, and has already begun connecting with crew, passengers, and regional stakeholders as he prepares to step into the role.