From broken bow lines and barnacles to worn belts, rusty valves and sun-dried canvas, there’s a boatload of things that can affect the appearance and operation of a boat. And let’s not even get into the mess that birds can make. While you can’t control the weather or wildlife, there are things you can do to avoid unexpected problems and major issues.

Most general maintenance can be done right at your boat slip rental. We’ve collected some tips on how to keep your boat shipshape from bow to stern and hull to hardtop.   

Seasonal Boat Maintenance

There are certain issues you’ll want to address on a seasonal basis (usually at the beginning of the boating season). Along with preventative steps, seasonal maintenance ensures that your boat operates properly when you’re ready to use it. You won’t end up with surprises when you go to start your boat.

• Change the oil.
• Check and replace belts and hoses.
• Check the fuel filter.
• Exercise thru-hull fittings (the valves below the water level that include seacocks, deck plates and drain plugs) to make sure they’re secure.
• Inspect battery terminal connections to make sure they’re corrosion-free.
• Make sure the battery is securely installed on a tray that’s bolted to the boat so that it doesn’t get banged around while underway. 
• Check the electrical panel for corrosion and proper functioning.
• Inspect ground tackle - the anchor, lines and ropes – for fraying, rust and cracks.
• Check bilge pump and automatic switch functions.
• Inspect safety gear such as flares, VHF radios and lifejackets for condition and proper functioning. This is a quick chore that can be done at your private boat slip rental.
• Check shore power cord and connections. If you’ve ever spent the night at your boat dock rental without shore power, you’ll appreciate this advance planning.  
• If your boat has a cabin, inspect plumbing in the head and galley.
• Clean and preserve brightwork (the wood on rub rails, handrails, cap rails and trim) to prevent damage from UV rays and the marine environment.

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is all the stuff you can do throughout the season to prevent bigger issues down the road (or waterway, as the case may be).

Fuel Lines, Prop and Engine Issues

• Use a fuel stabilizer additive to prevent gas from oxidizing and causing deposits in the fuel system.
• Check the prop for things like entangled fishing line and barnacles, which can reduce fuel economy.
• Get regular tune-ups on gas engines. It’s a good idea to get the service manual for the engine you have. It’ll list all of the required maintenance in detail.

Hull and Sides

• Wash the boat down with clean water and marine soap after use – especially if used in saltwater. If you keep your boat at a private boat dock rental with a lift, this is super easy to do.
• Clean and wax the fiberglass and gelcoat on a regular basis to avoid fading, cracks and salt buildup. A smooth surface protects the gelcoat and prevents barnacles.
• Have the boat hauled out of the water to repaint the bottom every two to three years. At this time, you can check and replace the boat zincs (also called zinc anodes or sacrificial anodes). These are metal discs that are bolted to the rudder. They protect metal parts, like the propeller and shaft, from galvanic corrosion, which happens when two different metals touch each other under water.   

Canvas and Vinyl

• Polish, clean and protect canvas sails, Bimini tops, vinyl, upholstery and Eisenglass with a mild detergent. You’ll want to treat canvas to a water-repellant treatment such as 303 Fabric Guard or Star Brite Waterproofing Spray.
• For the Eisenglass, use something like 210 Plastic Cleaner and Polish or 3M Marine Vinyl Cleaner and Restorer. Don’t use an ammonia-based product like Windex as it will cause cracking and dullness.
• Upholstery and seat cushions can be washed with mild soap and water. Zippers and snaps should be checked and lubricated yearly

Additionally, make sure your boat insurance and registration are up-to-date. Insurance companies rarely forget to send us our yearly bills, however, it’s always good to stay on top of things. 

Whether your boat is in a marina, docked at a private boat slip rental or stored in a boatel, it will perform it’s best with these simple maintenance tips.