Spring isn’t just in the air—it’s in the water, too. Now that everything is thawing out, it’s time to stretch your sea legs and get your boat back in action. But before you launch your vessel on its first voyage of the new year, there are a few crucial steps before you get your boat ready for the spring, that you should cross off your spring maintenance checklist.
Maintain The Nuts and Bolts
Your boat’s mechanics are what propels it through the water, so it’s crucial to keep your mechanical parts in check. If you are mechanically inclined, then checking your vessel’s mechanical parts should be a breeze. If not, you can always hire a professional to take a peek.
Here are a few important components you should test and check before setting sail:
- Check the battery and wire connections
- Check the steering and shifting
- Reinstall the propeller
- Test the bilge pump
- Check the seacocks
- Replace zincs
You should also check your coolant level, hoses, and oil pressure before starting your boat up from its winter slumber. Regardless of whether or not you hire a mechanic, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with your boat’s moving parts in case of an emergency.
Check Your Cabin Essentials
Now it’s time to venture into the cabin. When you’re not enjoying the sunshine reeling in a big catch, you’re most likely spending time in your cabin. You should always keep your cabin clean and free from any excess moisture.
Ensure that you have:
- Plenty of lifejackets onboard
- Checked all switches and appliances
- Checked your faucets and showers
- Stocked adequate food
This is also a good time to load up your towels and linens. Remember to stow away an ultra-absorbent towel for the ride to wipe away any excess water.
Don’t Forget Your Safety Gear
The last thing you want is to find yourself in the middle of an emergency. However, if you find yourself in this position, you should always have easy access to your safety gear.
Take time to double-check the gear that matters the most and:
- Inspect your lifejackets
- Inspect the dock and anchor line
- Inspect anchors and shackles
- Check fenders and fender lines
- Check your flares
Inspect the Deck and Hull
Your deck and hull make up the majority of your boat, so it makes sense that these areas see a lot of wear and tear. Oftentimes, the deck and hull of your boat can accumulate some rust stains and other flaws such as sun damage.
Before you launch your boat into the water, take the time to:
- Remove all rust stains
- Clean the deck vinyl
- Use a UV protectant on your vinyl
Set Sail Into Spring With the Absorber®
There’s a reason why boaters across the country don’t leave the docks without their Absorber®. This super absorbent towel is the perfect sidekick for handling moisture, spills, and splashes of any size. The Absorber® lasts for years and comes in a handy tube for easy storage on your boat or yacht.
Set sail this spring and shop our collection of cleaning and drying products.