Charter Operations?

I am doing a little research into the charter boat industry in the islands and had a few questions. First, I notice a lot of dive charter boats moored in the bays...is this normal so the company doesn't have to rent space? If so, can you use public docks to pick up customers? My last question for now is whether or not you have to be living in the islands to start the setting up process of a new business? Thanks for all the help.