Haul Out for Bottom Work / Hurricane Season

[stxChris]

Those of us in the Carribean durng hurricane season are exposed in numerous ways. I am interested in determining the level of interest in setting up a DIY boatyard in the USVI. Don't want to take work away from the full service yards but want to see if a market is untapped for low-cost "on the hard" storage and maintenance facilities. I expect that price point will affect interest so would appreciate input as to what rates would be considered a fair deal to you for your particular situation.

Environmental issues and safety would need to be addressed and monitored at all times. Somewhat thorny but doable if the market is deep enough.

[Eleven]

There would be distinct advantage too in bulk purchasing of tools and materials. Genuine cruisers would certainly take advantage of a brief time ashore if the location was close to small town facilities.

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by stxChris

... want to see if a market is untapped for low-cost "on the hard" storage and maintenance facilities ...

I wouldn’t think you have any difficulty developing a market for a “low-cost on the hard” ANYTHING in the USVI.

[anjou]

Canal boaters in the UK are always moaning the cost of bi annual haulouts to re black the bottom. Its either crane out or dry dock. Ive mentioned a few times that its worth looking into and getting a group who all need it at the same time so labour can be pooled and a steam cleaner hired, plus a larger order of paint is more leverage on price.

Do they listen? Nah.

[osirissail]

There are already DIY yards in the USVI - at least on St Thomas - so that is not going to be a major factor - but total cost is a factor along with making more space available than the existing yards have. They have been known to fill up fast and you have to wait quite awhile to get hauled.
- - But unless you are a financial masochist running a boat yard in anyplace subject to US environmental/OHSA/etc. rules and reg's is not a happy way to live and try to make money. Move down island, invest in building a boatyard that employs locals and you will be welcomed with open arms and near total lack of rules and reg's. That significantly lowers your costs and raises your profits.

[Laidback]

Originally Posted by osirissail

Move down island, invest in building a boatyard that employs locals and you will be welcomed with open arms and near total lack of rules and reg's. That significantly lowers your costs and raises your profits.

Where do you suggest - half a dozen places ?

[osirissail]

Off the top of my head on places where cruisers like to visit and currently have no facilities - I would try Dominica (Portsmouth); Montserrat; Bequia. Places that have yards but could use more include: Carriacou; Grenada (Clarkes Court Bay); St Lucia (Marigot).