Repairs in the Caribbean

[smileymac]

Hi

My wife and I (and 2 children) have just bought a 23.5 m steel sloop as a live aboard and run adventure sailing cruises on. we are taking her to the caribbbean to have her converted to more basic facilities and more bunks. she also needs some welding and deck work.

does anyone know a good boat yard in the caribbean that can do a good job at reasonable cost?

I have sailed into chagaramas (spelling) in Trinidad and there seems to be some fairly heavy duty repair work going on but does any one know what the work done is like? does anyone know if slipway in Antigua is any good?

Thanks

Niall

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Niall.

Good luck with your adventure cruise business.

[s/v Moondancer]

Most yards in the Caribbean are now close US prices but not always close to US standards of work and in the last few years Chagaramas prices have risen to US or above. Only really good value I know is Cartagena.

Noonsite: Recommendations: Good Workers in Cartagena

[atoll]

jolly harbour antigua has a travel lift that can handel that size vessel,and budget marine chandelery in the yard dont know current details of boatyard mafia for work.

cmo puerto la cruze in venezuela also can haul a vessel that size though marine supplies limited.

chagaramus used to be on of the best places to do work,apart form the climate,would think it still is.......

[anglooff]

Trinidad is also suffering from an economical downturn and some bad publicity regarding dinghy thefts have reduced boat visits therefore you may be able to get a good price. The benefit of steel is that you will find capable work in most southern caribbean locations, including Venezuela, columbia etc. I personally had work done in venezuela and was happy with the result and costs.

Your needs are rather vaguely stated. Could you eleborate on what is needed and maybe we can help further.

Finally welcome to the forum and good luck on your new venture

Regards

Alan