In water hull cleaning business?

Question

I plan on starting an in-water boat cleaning company. I am already scuba certified so I don't have to worry about that.

I was just wondering what tools I will need. I am guessing some kind of scraper or brush and several others.

What about breathing apparatus should I get a hookah system, above water tank with a long hose, or just use the regular tank on my back or will that get in the way.

Also how much should I charge or what are people you know charging. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I would think you'd want a hookah system. Otherwise you'll be refilling tanks all the time and that adds to your business expenses.  I expect you will need tanks from time to time for some jobs but not often.

It sounds like a great business! I hope it works out well for you.

Answer 2

I'm not in the hull cleaning business, but I see cleaners all of the time. To be honest, I haven't analyzed the biz that much.

Things that I do know...

Most cleaners have compressors on the dock, some just use a snorkel.

Never seen scuba... too bulky and expensive... inefficient.

If you use a scraper (typically) the boat yards will love you and the owners will hate you. The idea is to leave the bottom paint on the boat for as long as possible.

Most of what I've witnessed has been the use of the 'green scrubby'. You pretty much want to wipe the bottom clean, not scrub it.

You'll also need a couple of hand tools for replacing the zincs.

Pretty basic.

Your rate will depend on where you work. In San Diego, it's expensive.

Here is something that I found that might give you a better idea of what to expect...

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/seeking...

Good luck.