Charlie Balsamo of South Bay Boat Repair in Patchogue is a master wooden boat builder and restorer. Born in Gibraltar, he came to Long Island in the 1950s where he has worked continuously. Charlie has worked on large scale wooden vessels including ferries, yachts, launches and other commercial boats. He also restores historic wooden boats, assisting his customers and clients alike. Balsamo is featured in the Long Island Traditions’ exhibit “From Shore to Shore: Boat Builders and Boatyards of Long Island and Westchester.”
