We’re excited to welcome Jake Charette to the team this summer! Jake has joined Casco Bay Lines as an Administrative Assistant and the position is a phenomenal match for his skillset. He is deeply familiar with Casco Bay and Portland’s working waterfront, having come from 14 years with Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours. Jake says that he’s thrilled to be back on the waterfront.
“What I love about the waterfront here, is that while small in scale, it’s a real melting pot,” he says. “It’s a bonafide working waterfront with fishermen, water taxis, tour boats and ferries, but also working professionals, and tons of tourists mixing in as well. When you step outside the office here into the terminal, you see a mix of regular commuters that live on the islands—and families that just want to get out on the water and see our neat forts and lighthouses.”
Born and raised in Windham, ME, Jake crossed the country to New Mexico to study creative writing at the Sante Fe University of Art and Design. He then returned east to earn his bachelor’s in photography from Chester College of New England in New Hampshire.
After college he moved to Portland. He was grateful to back near the ocean and, as a big sports fan, he can often be found these days watching Hearts of Pine soccer games. He also loves cooking, gardening, riding his bike, and music in all forms. “I will often travel to see live music, so I’ve gone to South by Southwest in Austin the past 10 years.”
In his new role, Jake is assisting Caity Gildart, Director of Sales and Marketing and Nick Mavodones, Operations Manager. “It’s incredible being here,” says Jake. “So many things have changed in Portland and Commercial Street over the years, and some things have stayed the same. Casco Bay Lines is a true staple of the waterfront. It’s a real institution.”
“There’s a lot of longevity here,” he adds. “I’ve run into a lot of people, whether it’s captains or people that work in the offices, that have been here for 20+ years. People really care about what they’re doing. And I love that. Everyone’s really invested when you come to work.”
“Jake is an excellent addition to our team,” says Caity Gildart, Director of Sales and Marketing at Casco Bay Lines. “He has a lot of practical experience working with vessels, operations teams, and the wider public. It’s been a delight to onboard him and see him bring such strong ideas to the table.”
Learn more about Casco Bay Lines and view our staff directory at www.cascobaylines.com/contact-us