Boat repair and refit specialist

Private boat owners, marinas, sailing and rowing clubs, fishing operators and small charter businesses.

Hourly rate or fixed quote per job, plus materials. Winter storage and spring commissioning jobs can give steady work between launch season peaks.

• Fibreglass, aluminum or wood repair
• Diagnosing damage and quoting fairly
• Working safely with resins, tools and heights

• Commercial general liability insurance, plus cover for customers' boats while in your care, so check what a marine insurer offers
• Marinas may require proof of insurance and may restrict outside contractors, so ask before you start
• Resin fumes and dust, so check WHMIS training and protective equipment requirements in your province
• Work is seasonal in most of Canada, so plan indoor winter jobs or cash reserves
• Structural repairs may need to meet Transport Canada safety standards, so check before taking on work on commercial or passenger vessels

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your tools, vehicle, materials and insurance. Costs rise if you need more equipment for fibreglass, aluminum or wood work.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on the jobs you take, the season and your hours. The estimates assume at least about 15 hours a week.

Check commercial general liability insurance, plus cover for customers' boats in your care. Ask marinas about proof of insurance and contractor restrictions. Check WHMIS training in your province, and Transport Canada standards for commercial or passenger vessels.