Diesel and Refrigeration

[Shawn_GP]

First off -- I''m a long time observer and first time contributor, so I''ll make this short and sweet. I''ve noted several of you touting an education in refrigeration and/or diesel mechanics. Sound advice, I agree. All you good folks have said that one can make a nice living around the marina''s and such, so I was just wondering what a ''nice living'' would be. And whether you meant it as a sort of supplement while one cruises or a full time pursuit. My thanks in advance, your wise words -are- appreciated.

[h37skipper]

Good question and one that I once gave some thought. Then I looked into being a licensed HVAC engineer. I would have to quit sailing for two reasons. One is to sell the boat to pay for the classes. But that''s OK because there would not be time to sail anyway. I expect that being a licensed diesel mechanic might be the same.

Now if you are young and without a job and other responsibilities both could be lucrative in the right geography.

On the other hand there are early retirees in my marina who seem to do well enough. They do a lot of odd jobs for the yachties and still have time to sail. Best of all they are always on the water.

[GordMay]

Generally, the Marine Tradesman (employee) is poorly paid-recompensed, compared to his shore-side peer. He has similar (analogous) complaints with his employer, as those of the customers.
The self-employed Marine Tradesman can do very well, after establishing a peerless quality for quality and character.
The leading trades, for the cruiser seeking occasional (casual) work (perhaps in foreign ports), are Electrician, Mechanic, & HVACR (in no order). Often, the most employable cruiser will have a combination of those (& perhaps other) competencies.
Hope this helps,
Gord