Cruising & Diving Hulls for a Living?

[Sailmon]

I like so many have the dream of cruising, yet the cash remains a natural barrier. I have been saving for a boat and am currently in the market, but the monthly expense is the biggest hurdle for me. The plan is to work as much as is needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle while visiting ports. I have experience as a commercial diver.

Having said that, my plan is to roll around in gear as a last resort, shout out on the radio, shoot for new clients at the bar, and use my general good nature to attract clients.

In your opinion would this work considering restrictions, permits, regions? Could i survive on fish, beer, and bottom growth alone?

[killarney_sailor]

My first reaction is that it would be difficult to do. My second reaction is that it might depend to some extent on where you are located. In the Caribbean most people do their own bottoms as the water is warm and you do not need specialized equipment. In cooler and less clear water there might be more business. In most areas you would have to be careful not to make it too obvious what you are doing since locals in the dive business would not be happy - to say the least.

[Vasco]

Once you're out of your home country cleaning other boats for money is work and most places don't allow it so shouting out on the radio might not be the thing to do. I can't see making a living on cleaning boats while cruising. I know a couple of guys that do it (one freedives, good lungs) but all they get is not even enough for beer money. Don't rely on it being your cruising kitty!

[tomaz_423]

As long you stay in your home country - work as much you want.
But if you enter another country you are not allowed to work.
Depending on the country they might expel you, fine you, seize your equipment (dive gear and compressor) or all of the above.
Trying to get work permit is not easy in most countries.

[dbrock010]

Most cruisers will tell you that it costs around $40k per year, and about 25% of that goes into boat repairs. If money is an issue, you could always cruise for 6 months, and then work for 6 months in the states.

[killarney_sailor]

I don't think that full time cruising costs anywhere near $40k a year (unless you want it to). My wife and I spent less than $20k on a fully-equipped 45' last year. A smaller, simpler boat would be quite a bit less than this as long as you live simply. You still need money though and bottom cleaning might make you a few bucks but you cannot rely on it.