Products that Help You Protect Your Boat
Buying a boat is a massive financial commitment, and you want to do your best to protect this expensive asset. Not to mention that this is a luxury asset, which means that depreciation hits it hard, and if there are any visible signs of damage, you may be losing more than you can afford to.
With that in mind, spending a bit more to buy a few additional pieces of equipment suddenly sounds like a sensible investment. Here are five such products that will help you protect your boat.
Contents
1. Boat lift
A boat lift keeps your boat raised and out of water when it’s not in use. This reduces the time your boat is submerged, protecting it from wear and tear caused by constant water exposure. According to people behind Tonka Lift, it’s a great way to extend your boat’s lifespan.
Salt water, algae, and barnacles can take a toll on your boat’s hull over time. A boat lift helps by keeping your boat elevated and away from these harmful elements, reducing the risk of corrosion, growth, or the need for constant scrubbing to keep it clean.
During a storm, floating debris or rough waves can cause serious damage to your boat. A loft can secure your boat out of harm’s way, reducing the chance of dents, scratches, or worse. It’s an effective way to ensure your boat stays safe in rough weather.
When your boat is lifted out of the water, you get easier access to the hull for inspections, repairs, and general maintenance. Tasks like checking for leaks, cleaning the bottom (scraping barnacles), or applying new paint become far simpler when the boat isn’t in the water.
2. Boat cover
A boat cover acts like sunscreen for your boat, protecting it from the intense rays of the sun. Constant exposure to sunlight can fade your boat’s paint and damage the interior, so keeping it covered when not in use is a great way to keep it looking sharp.
Bird droppings, dust, and debris can make a mess of your boat when left exposed. A quality boat cover keeps all of that off, so you spend less time cleaning and more time on the water. It’s a simple way to avoid unnecessary headaches.
UV rays can cause the boat’s paint to fade and damage the interior materials over time. Using a boat cover blocks these rays, keeping the boat’s color vibrant and preserving the interior’s condition so it doesn’t become cracked or discolored from excessive sunlight.
When rain or moisture gets trapped in your boat, it can lead to mold or mildew. A well-fitted cover helps prevent water from accumulating in the interior, reducing the chances of mold growth and protecting your boat’s materials from the damaging effects of moisture.
3. Fenders
Boat fenders act like bumpers, absorbing the shock when your boat comes into contact with the dock or another boat. This cushioning effect helps protect your boat’s hull from damage and ensures smoother docking, which is especially helpful if you’re dealing with choppy water or wind.
Scratches, dents, and scuffs are common when boats come into contact with hard surfaces. Fenders create a barrier between your boat and the dock, protecting the hull’s finish and preventing costly repairs. They’re a small investment that pays off big in maintaining your boat’s appearance.
Boat fenders are incredibly easy to install and adjust based on the height of the dock or the conditions. They’re versatile and can be placed wherever you need them most, whether you’re docking for the day or rafting up alongside other boats.
When mooring or rafting, your boat will often be in contact with other boats or structures. Fenders help prevent collisions and potential damage, making them essential for keeping your boat safe in close-quarter situations. It’s a simple, effective tool that offers peace of mind.
4. Marine wax
Marine wax acts like armor for your boat, forming a protective barrier against saltwater and UV rays. Regularly waxing your boat helps prevent the corrosive effects of salt and the fading caused by sunlight, keeping your boat’s exterior looking fresh and well-maintained.
Nothing says a well-maintained boat like a glossy finish. Marine wax not only protects your boat but also enhances its shine, giving it that jus-polished look. It’s an easy way to make your boat stand out on the water while also preserving its condition. The effect is quite similar to furniture wax that some people use to protect the interior of their home.
Over time, exposure to the elements can cause your boat’s paint to fade and oxidize, dulling its once-brilliant appearance. A coat of marine wax helps seal the paint, preventing this oxidation and keeping your boat looking like it just came out of the showroom.
Once your boat is waxed, dirt, grime, and salt are much easier to wash off. The wax creates a smooth surface that prevents buildup, so your post-trip cleaning becomes a breeze. It’s a great way to reduce maintenance time and enjoy more time on the water.
5. Bilge pump
A bilge pump helps get rid of any water that may have found its way into the bilge area, which is the lowest part of the boat. This keeps your boat dry and prevents water from collecting in unwanted places, reducing the risk of damage or sinking.
Water that sits in the bilge area can lead to corrosion over time, eating away at your boat’s hull. By regularly using a bilge pump, you ensure that excess moisture doesn’t linger in the boat’s structure, helping to extend the life of your vessel.
Excess water can wreak havoc on your boat’s electrical systems if it’s allowed to accumulate. A bilge pump helps protect vital components by removing water before it reaches sensitive areas, ensuring your boat’s electrical systems remain dry and functioning properly.
Many bilge pumps come with automatic sensors that activate whenever water levels reach a certain point. This hands-free operation means you don’t have to constantly check and remove water manually, giving you peace of mind that your boat is always protected.
Wrap up
Keeping your boat in mint condition is always in your best interest. Sometimes, this means buying a lift to get it out of the water when not using it; at other times, it means covering it to protect it from sun and rain.
Regardless of if you’re spending money on fenders and bilge pump or some quality marine wax, you have to spend some money on your boat’s maintenance if you want it to last.
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about travel. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014 and the luxury interior design blog All The Pretty Homes in 2024.
When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets planning her next adveture abroad.
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