Start an online boat accessories shop

Boat owners, liveaboards, canal boaters, small sailing clubs and DIY restorers.

Profit on each item sold, usually a mark-up on wholesale prices. Bundles such as mooring kits or winter care packs can lift the average order.

• Knowledge of boats and fittings
• Online selling and product listings
• Customer service and returns handling

• Safety equipment such as lifejackets and flares may have extra rules, check what you can sell and how
• Consumer rules on returns and distance selling, check the current requirements
• Public liability and product liability insurance, ask an insurer what fits
• Storing stock at home may need permission from your landlord or mortgage lender
• VAT registration once turnover passes the threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on whether you dropship from wholesalers or hold a small amount of stock yourself. Your website, stock levels and insurance choices will affect where you land in that range.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £300 to £4,000, depending on your range, how much stock you carry and how well you reach boat owners and canal boaters. That figure is revenue, so remember to allow for your costs.

Check whether safety equipment such as lifejackets and flares has extra rules, and review the current consumer rules on returns and distance selling. Ask an insurer about public and product liability cover, and check VAT registration once turnover passes the threshold.