[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by JeremyD

You bet - owning a boat makes racing a Porsche seem reasonable.

The guys down here start on craigslist as "Mobile Mechanics" build their client base, then set up shop.

Most boat stuff is pretty reasonable (as in easy to work on) the harder stuff for me is the newer outboards - they look nothing like a traditional engine

This would be a good approach.

I've had several boats (18' Tahoe, 23' Monterrey current) and always DIY'd the work. At least in regards to a modern I/O or inboard you'll mostly be working on GM V-6 and V-8 engines. They are dead simple, the only real complication is learning about the outdrive and getting access. In my Monterrey you have to remove the back seat to get to the front of the engine (belts, fuel filter, impeller, water pump, etc) which is a huge PITA. This is pretty common, access in boats sucks. There are several boat shops in Wichita, they both charge about $80/hr, have wait-lists that can approach 2 months in the summer, and are astoundingly mediocre in customer service and aptitude. Around here, someone with skill and professionalism could make a killing, especially if they brought the convenience of being a mobile mechanic. Researching your local market will really be key, you need to identify if there is really a need or if you will be trying to take share of a limited market from some well established and respected shops.

If you were to go this route, you should consider diversifying into fiberglass repair, boat detailing, and trailer repair. Could be a good opportunity to bundle services and make yourself more appealing.