5 Actionable Tips to Extend Your Boat’s Lifespan
Like cars, boats need to be maintained regularly. They’re lifelong investments. That’s why it’s important to look after them.
Boats come in different sizes and are made from steel, aluminum or fiberglass. They can last between 40 and 75 years. With proper handling and regular upkeep, you can further expand your boat’s lifespan.
In this article, we’ll explore simple tips to ensure your boat remains seaworthy so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Table of Contents
#1 Rub a Dub Dub
Taking your baby onto the wide open seas is an experience second to none. But salt can cause damage to the exterior.
Our Culture says using marine-specific cleaning products is vital to getting rid of dirt, algae and salt. Pay attention to the parts exposed to saltwater. Even a simple spray of water is enough to get the job done until you can give her a proper wash.
To prevent long-term damage to the hull, wax it periodically. This helps protect against UV damage and keeps it looking clean and attractive. The wax should be high quality and provide UV protection. Make sure the surface you’re waxing has already been cleaned and dried.
#2 Interior Upgrade
Boat owners tend to forget the interior such as upholstery. If upgrading some of your interior furnishings, boat and bunk carpets are a great option for an instant revamp.
A carpet for boats is not only for aesthetic purposes. Boating experts suggest investing in a boat carpet with non-slip capabilities which you can count on during wet and windy sailing.
Boat carpets can be used as replacement flooring for marine and powerboat enthusiasts. Some products are specifically designed to be used as marine carpet, indoor-outdoor carpets or pool deck carpets.
There’s also the option of bunk carpets for boat trailers. If you’re in the DIY frame of mind, bunk carpet installation kits are available to shop online. You can glue them down or use a stapling technique.
Cuda Powersports advises customers to check color samples for aesthetic appeal and choose a material that lasts.
#3 Deal with Stains ASAP
Whenever your boat is in the marina, take the opportunity to check for fresh stains on the hull and interior carpets.
You’ll need different cleaning products specialized to be used on specific surfaces. Mildew remover works on most surfaces. The bilge is known to attract bacteria and mold, so keep a bottle handy.
The majority of boat seats are made from vinyl because the material withstands environmental conditions such as regular exposure to water.
Magic eraser sponges aren’t given enough credit when getting rid of unsightly stains. It’s a staple in so many homes, so why aren’t boating enthusiasts using them? All you have to do is wet, wipe and watch the marks magically disappear.
#4 Invest in an Emergency Repair Kit
Your emergency repair kit should include repair sealant for a short-term fix until you can get the boat to a dry dock or a marina.
Sail Magazine suggests fiberglass patches for sealing cracks and fixing dents on fiberglass boats. Make sure the patch you choose is moisture-absorbing and has a smooth finish.
Multitools aren’t designed to replace full-size toolkits, says Yachting Monthly’s Fox Morgan, but they’re agile and convenient in an emergency.
While chatting with the Practical Boat Owner, competitive sailors shared their sailing boat kits. Not part of your emergency repair kit per se, these are practical mechanisms that can ensure your boat doesn’t run into trouble at sea. The last thing you want is a damaged hull.
The ARC+ is an annual sailing event with stopovers in Mindelo, Cape Verde. Thanks to a reliable communication channel, one of the boats ordered a new forestay and had it flown to Cape Verde in time for their arrival.
Weather apps are another must-have for many sailors. Government sources like America’s NOAA and Europe’s ECMWF are freely available.
No sailing vessel can go without boat radar. The technology navigates a boat through sea squalls and poor visibility. It allows boats to prepare for a downfall or changing course.
#5 Wood and Water
It’s a given that wood and water aren’t good friends. Water damage to wood is sometimes irreversible.
Monitor the quality of your boat if it is predominantly made from wood. Include it on a regular inspection checklist.
Now that you have our five top tips to ensure your boat’s longevity, the next best thing is to enjoy sailing it. Go out there and make memories. Look after your boat and maintain it. And don’t forget, safety first.
