Our History

Marco Shipyard Early Years

Marco Shipyard, originally known as Marine Construction & Design Company (MARCO), was established in 1953 by Peter Schmidt in Seattle, Washington. Schmidt’s vision was to create a shipyard that combined innovative designs with advanced construction techniques, catering primarily to the Pacific Northwest’s fishing industry.

Innovation and Growth

From its inception, Marco Shipyard was recognized for its innovative approach to shipbuilding. One of its most significant contributions was the development of the Marco Automated Brailing System, which revolutionized the way fish were unloaded from purse seiners. This innovation not only in-creased efficiency but also significantly reduced labor costs, setting a new industry standard.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Marco Shipyard experienced rapid growth. The company expanded its product line to include a variety of fishing vessels, tugboats, and specialized maritime vessels, making a name for itself in both domestic and international markets. As Marco Shipyard grew, it diversified its operations beyond just fishing vessels. The company began constructing research vessels, pilot boats, and other specialized marine equipment. This diversification helped the company weather eco-nomic fluctuations and changes within the fishing industry.

Challenges and Adaptation

Despite its successes, Marco Shipyard faced several challenges, including economic downturns and shifts in the fishing industry. The company adapted by focusing on niche markets and leveraging its expertise in marine technology. This strategic pivot allowed Marco to maintain its competitive edge and continue delivering high-quality vessels and services.

Sale to Don & Sharry Stabbert

In 2005, Don and Sharry Stabbert purchased Marco Shipyard with a vision to create a premier waterfront office campus and full-service marina facility. Their dream was to develop a superyacht marina that offered comprehensive marine services right at the dock. Before building the office campus and marina, eight structures and hundreds of creosote-soaked pilings were removed from the shipyard, in addition to 1,100-ton and 2,000-ton drydocks. The first of six new buildings and the marina opened in 2008.

Conclusion

Marco Shipyard’s history, from its founding by Peter Schmidt in 1953 to its acquisition by Don and Sharry Stabbert in 2005 and their subsequent developments, reflects a dynamic journey of innovation, growth, and adaptation. The Marco Shipyard legacy is a testament to the importance of visionary leadership and the ability to evolve with changing industry demands.

Our Team

Don & Sharry Stabbert

Cofounders

Kelly Allison

Chief Financial Officer

Deke Jones

General Manager

Andy Rogers

Chief Marketing Officer

Sara Wyckoff

Operations Manager

Mara & Tucker

Our Marina Dogs

The Puretic Power Block

Invented in Seattle by fisherman Mario Puretic by MARCO Global, — revolutionized seine fishing in the 1950s. This mechanized pulley is suspended over a ship’s deck and allows small crews to bring in large hauls quickly.

Testimonial

Don Stabbert, Cofounder,
Salmon Bay Marine Center

“Our goal was to establish a top-tier waterfront office campus and a full-service marina.

We aspired to create a world-class superyacht marina, providing comprehensive marine services directly at the dock.”

Testimonial

“Our goal was to establish a top-tier waterfront office campus and a full-service marina. We aspired to create a world-class superyacht marina, providing comprehensive marine services directly at the dock.”

Don Stabbert, Cofounder, Salmon Bay Marine Center