Starting a small rigging business?

[TridentOne]

Brion-
I'm interested in the possibility of starting a small sailboat rigging business, yet have zero experience in the field. I am a sailor and have owned a few sailboats of my own over the years. My passion is sailing and sailboats and I'm tired of the corporate world. Thus I have been "dreaming" of running a small business like this in the marine industry for sometime now. How long would it take for someone to gain the basic knowledge needed to start working in a official capacity? (average time) The big question is can one make a decent living in this field? (again average rigger with a good client base) Are any certifications required? What type of equipment costs initially are needed? How much does insurance cost? etc. I realize that there are many variables involved in these questions, but if you could give me any related information that would be fantastic. I believe that this field is indeed a true art form and would be very interested in pursuing this career field if I could reasonably do so. I realize you may have already answered these questions in a previous post, if that is the case could you refer me to it. Thanks again.

[Douglas]

Hi Trident One, please come to Singapore, and start your rigging business here,,,,

Why ,,,, because there is a need, and right now there is no competition. We need a resident sailmaker too.

Brion Toss, would seem to be the best person to ask your questions to; but alas he hasn't replied yet ! Drats !

From my personal experience trying to get my mast and rigging replaced here in SE Asia, I am disgusted with after market spar and rigging service, especially from a spar maker that begins with "F" , in a western state !

Here in S'pore, riggers are brought in from Oz, to do insurance repairs, and air freight costs of shipping in replacement masts from all over the world, are horribly expensive.

Because of Brion's extensive experience, his skill and knowledge, and an author, he is called upon to be an expert witness in court cases involving failed rigging, and I think, that he likes being a sluth to finding reasons why rigging has failed.

Someone told me that a Marine Surveyor needs NO credentials, only credability, which comes from knowledge,,,, you can buy a membership in their organization if you wish !

Now, are marine surveyors not commissioned to write surveys on sailboats and their rigging ? ,,,, You Bet !

You asked what insurance would be needed,,,, I wondered that too,,,, if your rigging work caused loss of life at sea , are you liable ?

I hope you get your questions answered, soon .

Douglas

[TomP]

Best advice I can give is to work in a yard or a rigging shop and "learn the ropes" that way.

Even with a masters degree in mechanical engineering and bachelors in naval architecture (artichoke-nice Brion) each boat and each rig will tax your knowledge.

"Will it work?" and "Will it fit?" will soon become the two most hated questions you will ever ask yourself.

With that aside...it is truly a rewarding vocation.

Cheers,

Tom