Mobile Marine Mechanic Service

Provide on-location boat repair and maintenance at marinas and docks

Startup Cost
$25,000-$80,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
8-15 months
Profit Potential
$10,000-$33,000/month

Overview

Mobile marine mechanics charge $100-$200 per hour plus parts.

Servicing 60-150 boats monthly generates $120,000-$400,000 annually with 60-75% margins.

In 2025, boat owners value convenience of dock-side service.

Services include engine diagnostics and repair ($200-$1,500), winterization and spring commissioning ($300-$800), electrical system repair ($150-$800), fuel system service ($200-$600), regular maintenance ($150-$400), and emergency repairs ($150-$300 per hour).

Successful mobile mechanics operate from equipped service van, serve multiple marinas, respond quickly to breakdowns, maintain parts inventory, and build relationships with boat owners.

Peak season drives revenue.

Marketing through marinas, boat owners, boating forums, and referrals.

Required Skills

  • Marine Engine Repair
  • Boat Systems
  • Electrical/Fuel Systems
  • Diagnostics
  • Mobile Service
  • Customer Service

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lower overhead than marina shop
  • Convenience appeals to boat owners
  • Can serve multiple marinas
  • Seasonal maintenance recurring income
  • Growing boating participation

Cons

  • Highly seasonal business
  • Need extensive marine mechanic skills
  • Weather affects mobile service
  • Parts inventory investment
  • Physical demands of boat work

How to Get Started

  1. Get marine mechanic training and certifications
  2. Equip service van with tools and parts
  3. Build relationships with marinas
  4. Market to boat owners at docks
  5. Offer seasonal maintenance packages
  6. Build reputation for quality work
  7. Expand to multiple marina locations

Explore More Boat Maintenance & Repair Ideas

Discover additional business opportunities in this category.

View All Boat Maintenance & Repair Ideas →