Nova Scotia Boatyards a Bargain?

Lahr · #1 (**permalink**) 01-23-2002

With the Canadian currency so weak against the dollar, major projects like engine replacement, a hull awlgrip or osmosis treatment ought to be very cost-attractive at a good Canadian yard. Any experience or recommendations for say Nova Scotia as a venue for East Coast sailors?

SHIMSHON · #2 (**permalink**) 01-23-2002

Its very common for boats in the Maine area to go up to Nova Scotia to have major work done. I don''t have any personal experience in doing this but several friends have had work done up there and were very happy with both the quality of work and price. Typically an end of the season cruise winds up in NS and the work is done over the winter with the boat ready in the spring for a return cruise to New England or an extended cruise throug the Maritime Provinces. Honesty also seems to be a common characteristic amongst the yards up there and they seem to like Americans. Only problem is that it is difficult to get up there to examine the progress of work. Labor rates are about 1/2 of what they are in the States and that usually makes up 75-80% of the bill unless you are adding major equipment. Also tariffs on imported materials tend to be high. So, if you are looking to do some major labor intensive work ie stripping and varnishing, awlgrip or bottom work, NS is probably a good place to have the work done and save a substantial amount of money.

Lahr · #3 (**permalink**) 01-24-2002

Great endorsement. What will help now are specific references. Thanks all. Jack

Lahr · #4 (**permalink**) 01-24-2002

Great endorsement. What will help now are specific references. Thanks all. Jack

SHIMSHON · #5 (**permalink**) 01-25-2002

Jack,

I''ll talk to my friends about the yards they have used. Also you might try the internet and search for repair facilities in NS and interview them via email and also ask them for US references.

mikehoyt · #6 (**permalink**) 01-25-2002

South Shore Marine in Mahone Bay does great work. You can find a link on www.sunnybrokyachts.com that points to this boatyard or a phone number.

I recently had work done on my boat at Herring Cove Marine in Halifax. I am very pleased with the results. 902 477-8010
Charles Brown is the proprietor and the shop is wonderful to deal with.

Regards,

Mike Hoyt
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