If you’ve been boating for a while, your eye is tuned in to the difference between a freshly detailed boat and one that’s been neglected. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for the effects of detailing to wear off, leaving a vessel looking just a little tired and faded. 

We’re here to remind you that detailing isn’t just about appearance. Yes, a detailed boat is a beautiful boat, but detailing is also critical maintenance. From a practical perspective, detailing protects your boat from the elements and it’s a great opportunity to inspect it closely and notice any issues before they get out of hand.

In other words: If you expect to sell your boat, you should keep up on the detailing. If you expect to keep your boat, you should keep up on the detailing. The only way to get out of it is to hire someone else to do it, which is a fine strategy. However, if you want to do it yourself, here are some tips on detailing your craft from the team at The Boat Yard. We are just ten minutes from New Orleans in Marrero, Louisiana, right across the river.

Gather Your Supplies

The first step is gathering your supplies. Make sure they’re compatible with the finishes on your boat. For example, surfaces like wood and gel coat have specific needs. The exact products you require depend on your surfaces, but may include high-quality marine soap, wax remover, wax, glass cleaner, vinyl cleaner, carpet shampoo, metal cleaner, and metal polish.

For washing, you’ll want soft-bristle brushes, sponges, washing pads, towels, a couple of buckets, chamois cloths for buffing, a vacuum or blower for debris removal, and stain removers. You’ll also need a hose with an adjustable spray. 

For detailing, gather brushes and applicators for cleaning surfaces, sponges, waxing tools, and microfiber towels. A rotary polisher or a random orbit polisher saves labor when applying wax. 

How to Wash and Wax Your Boat

Start by rinsing the whole boat thoroughly, starting at the top. Next, wash and rinse the boat in sections. Never scrub dry surfaces, only scrub when they’re lubricated with plenty of soap and water. When the wax is in good condition, just buff after washing. 

Wax your vessel every two to four months to protect its finish. Remove the old wax with a dewaxing product or acetone. Use plenty of rags and turn them frequently so you don’t just redistribute the wax. Apply new wax according to product instructions and buff after application. 

How to Detail Your Boat

Clean all the glass, including windows, windshield, and mirrors. Clean and polish all the metalwork and chrome trim throughout your boat. 

Next, clean all vinyl surfaces and seating. Start with a damp cloth, switching to vinyl cleaner if needed. For stubborn mildew stains, use a 4-to-1 water and ammonia solution. If your boat has a cabin, clean and detail it thoroughly. Vacuum and clean the carpets. 

Inspect Your Vessel

During all steps, keep a close eye on the condition of your boat, and make notes of anything that needs follow-up, such as cracks, loose fixtures, failing finishes, etc. Take care of these issues while they’re still minor. 

Now take that beauty on a victory lap out in the bay, and enjoy yourself! You’ve earned it. 

Please remember The Boat Yard when you are ready to buy or sell! We are just ten minutes from New Orleans in Marrero, Louisiana, right across the river.