Essential Recommendations to Extend the Life of Your Boat

Maintaining your boat should be considered an investment: it increases its value and extends its lifespan. Regular and preventive maintenance is key to sailing safely, reducing fuel consumption, and avoiding major breakdowns, preventing unexpected and costly repairs.

Below, we share the 8 most important recommendations for maintaining your vessel:

1. Constant checks while sailing

Some inspections can only be performed while the boat is in operation. Take time to check each part of your boat while sailing and note any details or issues you observe. This habit will help you better understand your vessel and address minor problems without relying on a professional.

2. Budget for maintenance

It is estimated that the annual cost of maintaining a boat is approximately 10% of its value. This includes engine checks, propeller maintenance, hull cleaning, and antifouling.

It is advisable to have a contingency fund for unexpected repairs or replacement of long-life equipment.

Approximate lifespan of equipment and accessories:

3. Engine

The engine is more than just your boat’s propulsion: it powers the batteries for the fridge, lighting, electronics, and also for starting the engine itself. Some engines also include a coil around the cooling and exhaust system to heat water for onboard use.

For proper engine maintenance, pay special attention to the following:

• Keep the engine clean, including the bilge, to quickly detect any fluid leaks.

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Change the oil and fuel filters annually or after reaching a certain number of hours, whichever comes first.

• Keep fuel filters clean.

• Regularly check oil and coolant levels.

• Inspect the cooling pump impeller, one of the most common failures, which is easy to repair without special tools.

• Check the alternator belt tension (with the engine off). If the alternator isn’t charging properly, this is the first thing to inspect. Always keep a spare belt on hand.

• Lubricate transmission systems (gearbox, shaft, or outdrive).

• Check sacrificial anodes to protect metal parts from galvanic corrosion.

• Ensure proper shaft alignment and stuffing box sealing.

• For outboard engines, clean the internal circuit of salt after using seawater. Once you reach port, run fresh water through the engine for 3–5 minutes to extend its lifespan.

4. Mast, rigging, and sails

On sailboats, the rigging should be inspected annually. Check lights, antennas, anemometer, wind vane, halyard blocks, and shroud attachments.

When lowering the mast, clean and lubricate the mainsail track, terminals, and sail protection. If you don’t want to climb the mast, seek professional help.

5. Hull

The hull below the waterline must be protected from water and moisture:

• Apply primer before antifouling: change every 5–7 years.

• Inspect the hull when lifting the boat, checking for impacts or osmosis bumps.

• Check metal through-hulls for possible dezincification.

• Inspect seacocks and bilge pumps to ensure proper operation.

6. Teak

Its resistance to the marine environment and its hardness make teak the ideal material for outdoor surfaces that are exposed to the elements. Despite this resistance, teak requires regular maintenance to prevent deterioration and ensure its durability and appearance.

When new, it has a vivid color and a beautiful shine, but it quickly becomes dull and takes on grayish rather than brown tones.

The care of teak decks has always been a priority on all boats, as well-maintained teak speaks volumes about the boat and its good upkeep. We recommend thoroughly cleaning teak between one and three times a year, depending on its condition.

The process for maintaining teak decks on boats is as follows:

1. Cleaning: Use teak cleaner, a soft bristle brush, and plenty of fresh water.

• • You will need teak cleaner, a hose with fresh water, a bucket, and a brush.

  • First, rinse the surface with plenty of water and sprinkle the cleaning product on top.

  • Leave it to work for a few minutes and rub gently with the brush across the grain (it is important to use a soft bristle brush so as not to damage the teak).

  • Finally, rinse with plenty of water.

2. Polishing: Restore the original intense color.

• • Once again, start by soaking the area with plenty of water and diluting some polish in a bucket of water.

• • Spread it generously over the surface, leave it to work for a few minutes, and then rinse again.

• • Allow the surface to dry completely before continuing with the wood nourishment process.

3. Nourish: It is advisable to treat teak with oil or sealant. This will keep the material nourished and make it last longer.

• Remember that you should not use oil and sealant at the same time, as this will form a paste that is very difficult to remove. You should choose one or the other, depending on your preference.

• Once the deck is completely dry, apply the product with a brush.

• Try to remove any excess with a cloth.

• Leave it to dry and, a couple of days later, if you think it needs it, apply another coat.

By following these simple steps, you will maintain the teak surface of your boat for many years to come. It will be the envy of the whole harbor!

7. Electronics

Unless you are experienced, it is not easy to service electronics, but you can check for moisture by opening the central instrument panel or control panel.

It is also important to ensure that the log and depth sounder transducers are clean.

8. Batteries and electrical system

The key to a good electrical installation is organization: cables should be clearly labeled to identify which equipment they power.

• Record the last battery replacement date to track lifespan.

• Check charge and retention with an ammeter.

• If possible, have two separate circuits: one dedicated to engine starting and one for services. This ensures the engine battery remains charged in case of service battery drain or faults.

• The battery compartment should be dry and ventilated, with terminals clean and secure.

• Sulfation on terminals is common; clean them to ensure proper contact and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion:

Regular and preventive maintenance not only protects your investment but also ensures safety, efficiency, and the long-term durability of your boat.