Critique my new business idea please

[Macaw_Media]

Hey all,
I've been wanting to start up my own business for a few years now, and I think I have the right pathway in mind.

I live in a prime boating location, therefore boating proves to be a very popular past time here. Many locations in my area are 'upper class' areas, with many people owning expensive yachts and such. I'd say 1 household out of 3 owns a boat. If theres any boaties on the forum (I'm one myself) we all know that the worst part of a day out on the boat is the clean up afterward!

My idea was to offer a complete boat detailing/minor maintainance service. I could offer cleaning services (in/out where applicable) such as a complete exterior wash, vacuuming etc, as well as outboard flushing etc etc. In a nutshell the owner goes out and enjoys their day, then afterward the hard work is done for them - they don't have to worry about cleaning up.

I'd most likely charge on a length basis (so much per foot). I'd really like to make this a really professional service, one which owners of large yachts would be willing to use. There is no other service like this in my area.

As I live in a waterfront community, I could begin in my local area, and then branch out, targeting the local marinas and other homes.

What do you all think? Yay or nay? What other services could I provide? Any other comments?
Thanks,
Daniel

[quelephant]

good idea - how many people wash their own cars these days?
i think i've only ever washed mine once since i started driving! A valeting service takes care of it for me at £5 per go! ....... anybody who owns a yacht i'm sure can afford a professional wash and service every once in a while.

it's a no brainer, i think, just get on with it, print out some flyers and deliver to the yachts direct! you should receive orders instantly.

make sure your prices are right for each type of service product.
Be able to explain to each owner the service you provide and if there's anything they want you to keep in mind specifically for their boat.
Have you thought about insurance should something go wrong!?
would you require licensing for yourself and your employees?

[simplegreen]

a buddy down in Miami does this and does VERY well.

His business is scraping off the barnacles of large boats and yachts but while the boats are still in the water. It costs a lot to have those boats dry docked so if you can get someone with scuba gear to do it, there's a lot of money in it.

Sounds like a great idea, i'd go for it. along with the above ideas, get in good with the owners or operators of the yacht clubs and marinas. Offer them free services or a % and they'll push the services for you..

Where are you located?