Mobile Boat Detailing Service

Provide on-location boat washing, cleaning, and detailing at marinas

Startup Cost
$12,000-$40,000
Difficulty
Beginner
Time to Profit
4-8 months
Profit Potential
$7,000-$25,000/month

Overview

Mobile boat detailing services charge $15-$40 per linear foot for full detail.

Detailing 60-150 boats monthly (average 30 feet) generates $80,000-$300,000 annually with 65-80% margins.

In 2025, boat owners value convenient dock-side detailing.

Services include wash and exterior detail ($300-$1,200 for 30-foot boat), interior cleaning and detailing ($200-$800), wax and polish ($400-$1,500), teak cleaning and treatment ($200-$800), stainless polishing ($100-$400), and monthly maintenance packages ($150-$500).

Successful mobile detailers operate from equipped van, serve multiple marinas, use marine-specific products, schedule efficiently, and build recurring customer base.

Peak season April-October.

Marketing through marinas, yacht clubs, dock flyers, and boat owner referrals.

Required Skills

  • Boat Detailing
  • Marine Surface Care
  • Customer Service
  • Route Planning
  • Equipment Operation
  • Quality Control

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Low startup costs
  • Convenience appeals to boat owners
  • Can serve multiple marinas
  • Recurring monthly customers
  • Growing boating market

Cons

  • Highly seasonal business
  • Physical demanding work
  • Weather affects detailing
  • Competition from marina staff
  • Need water access at marinas

How to Get Started

  1. Learn boat detailing techniques
  2. Invest in mobile detailing equipment
  3. Build relationships with marinas
  4. Market to boat owners at docks
  5. Offer monthly maintenance packages
  6. Provide quality detailing work
  7. Build recurring customer base

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