@HammerheadFistpunch said in Freaking mechanics - UPDATE:
there is no book rate for boats
While I'm not taking a side here, this does exist, we had one at the marina where I worked. https://spader.com/product/flat-rate-manual/
I would (and do) do the same as you - DIY on the boat all the way. And I was on the other side, that's part of why I DIY! Because for one, I know how busy these places are, and how they can do exactly what they're doing to you.
I actually avoid going to my former employer to get work done for another reason. I get the "friend" discount, sure. But they also tend to say (not out loud) "oh it's [functionoverfashion] he can wait, do the loud customer with deep pockets first" and then I get put on the back burner. I've had this interaction with them and it's worse than overpaying because it doesn't get done.
This is the place, though, that let me use their shop freely to get the work done on my father-in-law's wooden boat last year. That's the kind of relationship I want to have.