Local boat trip operator

Tourists, families on holiday, day trippers, and groups such as parties, clubs and corporate outings.

A price per passenger on set sailings, plus higher fixed prices for private charters and group bookings. Income is seasonal, so busy months need to cover quieter ones.

• Safe boat handling and a good knowledge of the local water
• Friendly, confident commentary and customer service
• Planning around tides, weather and bookings

• Boats carrying paying passengers usually need to meet Maritime and Coastguard Agency rules, so check the right code and certification for your vessel
• Skipper qualifications and crew requirements, which vary by where and how you operate
• Passenger liability and hull insurance, which can be costly, so get quotes early
• Harbour, mooring and landing fees or permissions from the harbour authority or waterway owner, as rules vary across the UK
• Seasonal and weather-dependent income, so plan your cash flow for the winter

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £75,000, depending on the vessel, its condition and the insurance and certification it needs. Getting insurance quotes early helps you see where you may land in that range.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your location, the number of trips you run and how seasonal and weather-dependent your bookings are. Plan your cash flow for the winter.

Check Maritime and Coastguard Agency rules, including the right code and certification for your vessel. Also check skipper and crew requirements, passenger liability and hull insurance, and harbour, mooring or landing fees and permissions where you plan to operate.