MARINE SPOTLIGHT: M&L Mobile Detailing

Marine Spotlight: Luis of M&L Mobile Detailing

This week’s Marine Spotlight features Luis, owner of M&L Mobile Detailing, a James Island-based business that’s grown steadily thanks to hard work, word of mouth, and a deep respect for the detailing process.

Luis got his start in the industry working as a finisher at Sea Fox and Scout Boats, where he spent his days buffing and polishing new boats. On the weekends, he began offering detailing services to his managers and their friends. “It started out as a side hustle,” he says, “but before I knew it, I was making my full week’s paycheck in just two days.” That experience gave him the confidence to take a leap and start his own business — something he hasn’t regretted since.

With over five years in the detailing world and four of those spent running M&L, Luis now leads a small team that focuses on consistency, quality, and customer trust. “We’re based out of a shop in James Island,” he explains, “and we’ve got two mobile units that take care of maintenance clients and out-of-town jobs across the state. Boats are our main focus, but we also detail cars, RVs, and planes.”

When it comes to products, one item always stays in his kit: Koch Chemie Green Star. “It’s super versatile,” he says. “With the right dilution, we use it on just about everything—from boats to cars to aircraft.”

Luis also shared a simple detailing tip that makes a big impact: pay attention to the small spaces. “Cup holders, center consoles, all the places customers actually touch—those are the areas they notice most. Always double check them before you finish a job.”

What he values most about this work is the independence it offers. “I like being able to manage my own time and support my team,” he says. “Building relationships with customers and seeing them happy with the result—that’s what keeps me going.”

For anyone thinking about starting their own detailing business, Luis offers this advice: “Underpromise, overdeliver. Focus on doing good work and treat it like a real business from day one. People will notice.”

You can check out more of Luis’s work and follow his journey on Instagram at @mlmobiledetailing.