Decoding a Boatyard Quote
Boatyard quotes vary wildly in detail. Some give you a one-line bottom-job estimate; others itemise every step. Comparing them apples-to-apples is harder than it looks, and the line item that decides whether you've got a fair deal is often buried.
What every quote should include
- Haul, pressure wash, blocking
- Specific paint (brand, product line, number of coats)
- Prep extent (sand only, scrape and sand, full strip)
- Materials cost itemised separately from labour
- Daily hardstand rate after the included work period
- Splash (relaunch) fee
- Sales tax / VAT where applicable
- Payment terms
Common hidden costs
- Environmental fee: $50–200 typical, separate from yard fees
- Electrical hookup: Daily or weekly rate
- Water: Sometimes metered separately
- Pressure wash adders: Heavy growth = extra pass
- Block storage: Some yards charge for the wood/cradle
- Paint upgrade: Premium paint costs delta from baseline
- Findings during work: Gelcoat, fairing, hardware replacement — often discovered after start
Questions to ask before signing
- What's the daily rate after the included work period if I run over?
- What's the policy if you find additional work needed?
- Who pays if there's damage during haul-out?
- Is the quote based on hours estimate or a fixed price?
- What's the payment schedule?
- What's the cancellation policy?
Comparison framework
When you have two quotes side-by-side, normalize on three things: total all-in cost (including known adders), what's specifically excluded, and the yard's reputation for change orders. A quote that's $500 cheaper but doesn't include splash fee, environmental fee, and electrical hookup is usually the more expensive option once added up.
Frequently asked questions
What should a 40-foot bottom job include?
Haul, wash, blocking, prep, two coats of antifouling, zinc, splash. Plus hardstand for the work days.
Materials separate from labour?
Yes — always ask for the split.
Change orders?
Inevitable. Verify the policy: notification, approval, pricing method.
Fixed price or T&M?
Fixed for bottom jobs typically. T&M for refit work.
How much buffer?
20–30% over the quote for unanticipated work is realistic.