Does anything exceed the pride, joy, and thrill of getting a new boat? We’ve all been there–giddy with excitement as we run a finger over a gleaming chrome fixture, checking our reflection in spotless glass, huffing the delectable new boat smell in the cabin. When it’s brand new and spotless–when the upholstery, gelcoat, and varnished wood are all perfect, when the engine purrs like a cat–it’s pure bliss. If only it could stay that way forever…
Actually, it can–or pretty close, anyway. With diligent, consistent maintenance your vessel can stay in like-new condition for a long time. Invest time, energy, and money to keep your boat’s appearance and function at 100%, and you’ll enjoy a beautiful, reliable craft (with best-in-class resale value) in the meantime.
We suggest you rely on a checklist to make sure you don’t overlook anything. Here are some tips on using a checklist to ensure your maintenance program covers every inch of your craft, from bow to stern. Whether you want to do it yourself or put a service shop in charge, it’s the best way to keep your boat in pristine condition all year round.
Remember, the only thing more expensive than maintaining your boat is NOT maintaining your boat! Enjoy our tips from the team at The Boat Yard, your new and used boat dealer in Marrero, just across the river from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Observe the Guidelines in Your Owner’s Manual
New boats always come with an Owner’s Manual. It’s your best resource. For used boats, you can probably find a manual online. Hopefully, your manual has an excellent checklist in your manual, and you are good to go. Just keep up on it–you’ll always be on top of your boat’s needs. Otherwise, make and follow your own checklist.
Make Your Own Checklist
If you need to make your own checklist, hunt online for a good starting point. A good checklist states the interval of each task:
- Every outing
- Every 20 hours
- Every 50 hours
- Every 100 hours
- Every layup
Use the checklist to break tasks according to category, such as:
- Engine and drive
- Steering system
- Hull
- Interior
- Tops
- Hardware
- Trailer
- Safety gear
Find a checklist you like and customize it for your needs. After you use it for a season, consult your notes and revise it for the next season. Any time you notice something the list overlooks, make a note and alter your checklist accordingly. Pretty soon you will have the perfect custom checklist for your boat maintenance.
If you are buying (or selling!) a boat, make sure to check out The Boat Yard, one of Louisiana’s highest volume dealers of pre-owned boats! We’ve been in business for over 30 years and are located on a massive 10-acre facility. We offer a full mechanical inspection for all buyers, as well as a full load test in our 40-foot test tank. Let us find you the perfect boat at the perfect price!
