It's the first question every boat owner asks and the one most detailers dodge: what's this going to cost? Here's how boat detailing is actually priced on the Emerald Coast, why two 24-footers can quote hundreds apart, and roughly where your boat will land — so the number you get back isn't a surprise.
Almost every reputable detailer down here quotes boats per foot of length, then adjusts for condition. On the Emerald Coast the going range is about $15–$30 per foot. That spread exists because "detailing" covers everything from a quick wash to a multi-stage compound:
Multiply the per-foot rate by your length and you're close. Rough all-in ranges for a wash-and-wax in good-to-moderate condition:
To keep small boats worth the trip there's a $250 minimum, and larger or badly oxidized hulls are quoted after inspection so nobody's guessing. For reference, a recent 23-ft center console that needed oxidation cut and sealed came in at $925 — condition, not just length, is what moved it.
Beyond the base package, the extras that boat owners on the coast actually ask for:
SB Detailing is mobile — we bring water, power and the whole setup to your boat, whether it's on a trailer in the driveway or in the water at the dock. You're not hauling it anywhere or losing a weekend to it. That convenience is the whole point, and it's built into the price above, not tacked on.
Not sure what shape your gelcoat is in? Read how to tell oxidation from dirt (and what it takes to fix), or see how often a saltwater boat really needs detailing.
Text us your boat's length and a couple photos of the hull. We'll send back an honest quote — usually within the hour — and come to your slip or driveway.
For a wash-and-wax in reasonable condition, plan on roughly $475–$725. If the gelcoat is chalky and needs compounding, or you add a marine ceramic sealant, a 24-footer can run $800–$1,000+. The exact number depends on oxidation and how the vinyl and non-skid have held up.
Boats are bigger, the gelcoat oxidizes far faster than automotive clear coat in salt and sun, and non-skid, vinyl and hardware all take extra hand-work. A 24-ft boat is simply more surface and more labor than any car.
No surprise trip fee inside our normal service area (Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Navarre, Mary Esther, Niceville, Pensacola). We're fully mobile with our own water and power. Very long hauls are quoted up front.
Almost always oxidation. A boat that looks 'just dirty' but is actually chalky needs machine compounding, which is the biggest labor item. Sending a couple of photos before we quote keeps the number accurate.
Text us your boat's length and a few photos (especially the hull sides and any faded areas). We send back a real quote, usually within the hour — no on-site sales pitch.
