FAQ
Boat repair questions, answered
The questions Clearwater boat owners ask most before bringing a boat to the shop.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a boat repair take?
- Small fiberglass and gelcoat repairs usually turn around in a few days. Transom or floor work typically runs two to four weeks depending on how much structure is involved. Full rebuilds can take several months — Thomas gives you a realistic schedule up front and keeps you updated with photos as the project moves.
- Do you give free estimates?
- Yes. Estimates are free. Call the shop at (727) 330-5786, or send photos and a short description through the contact form and you'll get an honest ballpark before the boat ever comes in.
- Do you handle insurance claims or survey work?
- Yes. Harper Marine Services documents damage with photos and written detail for insurance claims, and works from pre-purchase survey punch lists so you know exactly what was corrected.
- What types and brands of boats do you service?
- Center consoles, bay boats, flats skiffs, bowriders, cuddy cabins and small offshore boats — generally up to about 30 feet. Brand doesn't matter: Hydra-Sports, Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Grady-White, Key West, Carolina Skiff and plenty of older no-name hulls have all come through the shop.
- Do you work on engines?
- The shop specializes in structure and finish — transoms, floors, stringers, fiberglass, fuel tanks and paint — plus general repair and maintenance around the boat. For major engine rebuilds Thomas will point you to a trusted local mechanic and coordinate the work around it.
- Where are you located and what areas do you serve?
- The shop is at 1337 N Highland Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755. Boat owners bring work in from Dunedin, Largo, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Belleair, Tarpon Springs, St. Petersburg and the rest of Pinellas County.
- Can I drop my boat off on a trailer?
- Yes — most boats arrive on their own trailer. Call ahead so Thomas has space ready and can walk the boat with you when you drop it off.
- How do I book an appointment?
- Use the booking page to request a date and time. It's an appointment request, not a live calendar — Thomas confirms or suggests a new time within one business day.
- How much does a transom or floor replacement cost?
- It depends entirely on how far the rot travelled and what the boat is. Nobody can quote it honestly from a phone call alone, but after a look at the boat you get a firm scope and a straight number before any work starts.
Still have a question? Send it over or request an appointment.
Need a straight answer on your boat?
Call the shop or send a few photos. Thomas will tell you what the job actually takes.