To keep a boat in good operating and aesthetic condition it is necessary to establish a maintenance schedule. We suggest an annual schedule that includes services to the hull, machinery and accessories.

Annual hull care should include a fresh coat of antifouling bottom paint and topside cleaning, waxing or periodic painting, depending on the hull material and condition. All through hull fittings and attachments should be inspected. Zinc anodes should be replaced as necessary. The moisture level in the bottom of fiberglass vessels should be checked. High moisture content could be the sign of gel coat blistering. Early detection can reduce costly repairs. Above decks all watertight fittings should be checked, including but not limited to: cleats, stanchion mounts, hatches, ports, antenna mounts and the hull to deck seal. The interior should be checked for water stains, which could indicate a leak. Repairs should be made immediately.

Annual machinery care should include regular oil and filter changes for the main engine(s) and auxiliary generator. (suggested minimum: every 100 hrs or annual which ever comes first). All fluid levels should be regularly checked. The engine(s) should be inspected for any oil or fuel leaks. Gasoline engines should be tuned up annually, electrical parts should be replaced as necessary. All hoses and drive belts should be routinely inspected and replaced when worn or cracked. The starter motor and alternator should be inspected. All wiring and contacts should be checked. Wire insulation should be intact and contacts should be secure and clean. Painted surfaces should be maintained and annually a light coating of oil applied to reduce corrosion. Transmissions and outdrive units should be inspected and serviced annually. Transmission fluids and gear oil should be checked for water and changed periodically. Outdrive units should be pressure checked. Universal joint, gimbal bearing, propeller spline and unit fittings should greased. Bellows and water seals checked and replaced as necessary. If the vessel is berth in salt water zinc anodes should be checked and replaced as necessary. The outdrive unit should have a coat of copper free antifouling paint applied to reduce fouling.

Annual auxiliary and accessory care should include inspection of the electrical system. All circuits should be tested for proper operation. Exposed wiring, fuse/ breaker panels and electrical equipment should be inspected. Any defective parts should be replaced. Any loose wiring should be properly secured. Batteries should inspected and tested. Batteries should be in approved boxes or trays and securely fastened. The fresh water system should be flushed and chlorinated. All fresh water lines and connections should be checked for tightness. Repairs and or replacements should be made as necessary. The mechanical side of all systems should be checked for proper operation. These systems include but are not limited to: hydraulic trim systems, air systems, anchoring system, bilge and sanitation systems. All safety equipment should be checked: PFDs, flares, fire extinguishers, and any others. Out dated or damaged equipment should be replaced. Covers and upholstery should be inspected and cleaned. Repairs should be made early to any damage. Immediate attention can save the cost of a large repair later.

Sailing vessels should have all standing and running rigging checked. Sails should be inspected. Dirty or mildew sails should be cleaned and repairs made as necessary. Winches, blocks, turnbuckles and other mechanical equipment should be properly lubricated. Any damaged equipment should be repaired or replace.

The above is a general guide to those items that will need attention in order to maintain your vessel in good condition. A well maintained vessel is a pleasure to use and retains a high resale value. Let us help you protect your investment by establishing a program of regular maintenance.