Start a small boat tour operator business

Tourists, local families, wedding and party groups, and corporate or school groups.

Ticket price per passenger for set departures, plus higher-value private charters for groups. Extras like food, drinks or gear hire can add to each booking.

• Safe boat handling and navigation
• Looking after groups and customer service
• Local knowledge to guide the trip
• Scheduling, bookings and maintenance planning

• Commercial vessels generally need survey, safety equipment and certified crew, so check the national requirements with AMSA and your state marine authority
• Skipper certificates and, where relevant, a first aid qualification
• Specialised commercial vessel and public liability insurance can be costly
• Berth, mooring and landing permits, plus any marine park or national park permits for tours in protected areas
• Weather, seasonal demand and maintenance costs can swing income
• Check when you must register for GST and workers compensation if you hire crew

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on the vessel, safety equipment, insurance and permits you need. Commercial vessel insurance can be costly, so get quotes early.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your routes, group bookings and season. Weather, seasonal demand and maintenance costs can swing income, so plan for quieter periods.

Check national requirements with AMSA and your state marine authority on survey, safety equipment and certified crew. Also check skipper certificates, first aid, berth, mooring and landing permits, marine or national park permits, insurance and workers compensation.