Critter Control: How to Keep Pests off Your Boat

Jonathan Timianko

— 3 min read
Critter Control: How to Keep Pests off Your Boat

Creatures, regardless of how cute or cuddly they may appear, can cause havoc to your boat. Think: torn canvas and Isinglass, scratched teak and gelcoat and chewed-up hoses and wires. And that’s not even mentioning the various droppings, stains and other detritus you may encounter from birds, squirrels, otters, mice, rats, ducks and even sea lions (probably more a West Coast problem, but still, a problem).

In the winter, it’s mice, rats and other creatures trying to keep warm. In the summer, it’s spiders, ants and other creepy crawlies doing whatever it is they do. When your sailboat, cuddy cabin or fishing boat is closed up for the season - or if you’re away for a while - it doesn’t really matter whether it’s on a trailer in your driveway, in a boatyard on blocks or in the water at a private boat dock rental. It’s not immune to creatures. Hey, they like boats too!

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Photo: Pexels

We’ve come to the conclusion that the best way to avoid the problem of pests is to keep them away in the first place. Keep reading to discover a few new (or new-to-you) tips to keep those creatures at bay.

Critter Control on Board a Boat

  • The number one and most obvious way to keep pests off a boat is to keep it clean. Creatures like trash and things they can eat and burrow into. Remove all trash when you leave the private boat slip rental for the weekend. Clean carpet and vinyl. Store food in air-tight containers.
  • A rail line deterrent is a line of monofilament line that stretches across the top of railings to prevent birds from perching. You may have also seen this done along the docks at waterfront restaurants. To attach, simply clamp the mounts onto the railing and stretch the line across.
  • Multi-colored flags, dori poles or shiny string hung around the boat can deter birds.
  • Mice, rats and squirrels can use fenders, bumpers and lines to board a boat. If you store your boat in the water at a private boat dock rental, put it in the middle of the slip so it’s not as easy for them to jump onto and scurry across.
  • Hang metal pie pans from the dock lines. This will help keep them from boarding a boat since they move with the wind and make noise.

Leave on a light (maybe on a timer) for the nocturnal creatures like rats and mice who prefer the darkness.

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  • Another way to deter rodents from a private boat lift for rent is with a rat guard. This circular piece of plastic fits around the line. It prevents rats and mice from scurrying up the line and boarding the boat.
  • Owls are a natural enemy of mice and rats. A plastic owl can keep rodents, and other birds, away from a private boat slip rental.
  • Ultrasonic sound deterrents can work for rats and mice. The devices give off a high-decibel sound that only the critter can hear (apparently, it’s not pleasant) and will send them on their way.
  • Rodent repellent scented pouches, made with balsam oil, are perfect for boats, RVs, garages, attics and more. Ammonia has been known to repel rats.
  • Put chairs or other obstructions in front of steps and swim platforms to prevent creatures like sea lions from boarding at a private boat dock rental.
  • Peppermint oil or peppermint soap can keep spiders away. Put drops of peppermint oil and water in a spray bottle and spray down surfaces, entrances and other areas. Not only will this keep pests away, but you’ll also have a minty fresh boat! Some say Irish Spring soap works well too. Mothballs and dryer sheets are other options to keep creatures away from a private boat lift for rent.
  • Cover vents when not in use. Use mesh to keep small animals and insects from entering.


Hopefully you’ve discovered some new tips to combat pesky critters on board your boat at a your marina, your driveway or a private boat slip for rent. Happy pest-free boating!

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