Start-up cost: $2,000–$10,000
Potential earnings: $30,000–$60,000
Typical fees: $75 per hour
Advertising: Marinas, boat retailers, Yellow Pages, brochures
Qualifications: Know the mechanics of a boat and the types of boats
Equipment needed: Cell phone, tools, cleaning supplies, dock, storage space
Staff required: No
Hidden costs: Repairs to equipment (you will need to maintain your
trailer on at least an annual basis), insurance
What You Do
Boat owners are nuts about their boats, and while they enjoy being out on the
open seas, they often hate keeping up with the maintenance end. After all, boating
is about getting away from it all, right? Usually, your clients have a lot of disposable
income, since they’ve invested a great deal of cash in the boat itself; that’s how you
can be sure of your own earning potential. On a more practical note, this business
is for you if you don’t mind a little grease under your nails and working out in the
hot sun occasionally. Know your boat types (fiberglass, wood, steel, aluminum)
and what type of chemicals you can use on each without causing any damage.
Certification as a boat mechanic will be helpful but not required. Advertise where
people buy dock space and at boat retailers. Try to get the businesses (such as
restaurants) along the shore to carry your brochure.
What You Need
If you are a good mechanic to begin with and have your own tools, your start-up
costs could be minimal (about $500). You’ll need storage space, possibly a dock,
and all types of cleaners, paint, and detergents. Your basic fee to do a tune-up
would likely be $50 per hour; add another $25 per hour to clean. Your salary will
be in the $30,000–$60,000 range.
Keys to Success
This is a big undertaking, as boat owners usually pamper their boats. You have
to be truly committed. If you like working with your hands and tinkering with
engines, this would be a great opportunity for you. The payoff in the end could
be great, too, as there are hundreds of thousands of registered boaters today. If
you space your jobs out well, this could be a full-time job, and you could add staff
before you know it.
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