Mark Willis: PASSION and PRECISION with a commitment to EXCELLENCE.

At Willis Custom Yachts, our story is deeply rooted in a passion for the water and the art of boatbuilding. Co-founder Mark Willis grew up in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, where his love for the water grew alongside a familial passion for craftsmanship. Inspired by his grandfather, who built skiffs in a at-home workshop, Mark’s journey into the world of wooden boatbuilding began early on.

In 1982, Mark embarked on his first new build: a 30-foot inboard, single-screw boat named “Outlaw.” A self-taught tradesmen, he immersed himself in literature, publications, and hands-on experiences aboard boats, honing his skills in design and construction. This dedication laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary  era in the custom sportfish industry.

Over the years, Mark has transformed the landscape of custom sportfish yacht building with a combination of innovative technology and meticulous craftsmanship. While remaining committed to the timelessness of cold-molded wood epoxy hulls, he has embraced modern advancements by utilizing composite carbon epoxy infusion for the superstructure and CAD renderings to create a complete 3D model of the vessel and its individual CNC-cut components.. 

Today, Willis Custom Yachts stands as a testament to Mark’s vision and expertise, setting the standard for high-performing luxury sportfish yachts. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and tradition continues to drive us as we build vessels that embody the spirit of the sportfish yacht and the legacy of craftsmanship.