Billy Martinelli has left his mark on his profession. In the early 70s, he learned his skills by working on, and restoring, historical ships at the San Francisco Maritime Museum. There he met antique vessel restorer and tugboat captain, Harold Sommer. Harold kindled Billy's interest in maritime history and recruited him as one of the principal craftsmen on the 13 year restoration project of the German pilot schooner, WANDER BIRD, built in 1881. Also, during the 70s, he maintained the beautiful Alden schooner, MAYAN, owned by rock musician, David Crosby. In the 80s, Billy spent two summers exploring the canals of France with Sterling Hayden on his canal barge. In the 90s, he began realizing his dream of building a replica of a San Francisco hay scow

He laid the keel for the boat in June 1990. In 14 months, Billy completed the magnificent 50 x 19-ft. hull of GAS LIGHT. After her launch in 1991, GAS LIGHT began her 10 year transformation into the awe-inspiring schooner that she is today. On December 28, 2000, GAS LIGHT became U.S. Coast Guard certified to carry 49 passengers.

Shipwright and master joiner, with over thirty years experience in the woodworking trades. Billy is a fine craftsman, custom cabinet maker, designer and builder of yacht interiors.