Get set for launching this season

After an unpredictable two years dominated by the COVID pandemic, this year’s boating season looks set to be more ‘normal’. Restrictions are easing and whilst caution is still urged, the coast and islands are opening up to welcome visitors by sea once aga

For some boat owners it will be the first time they have used their craft in two years after opting to stay on the hard during the pandemic. Now, yards up and down the country are seeing a bustle of pre-launch preparations and launching slots are already being booked. Traditionally getting boats in the water for Easter weekend is a given, but this year many owners are looking at earlier launch dates to get more of the season under their belt. As ever, co-ordinating with your boatyard regarding lift in time is essential. Always at this time of year owners look back and wonder why they hadn’t started boat maintenance earlier. Now, with improving conditions and rising temperatures it’s time to get going on that list of jobs made when the boat was lifted out. Work required from one of the boat yard professionals should already have been booked but, if not, get in touch as soon as possible since this is the busiest time of year. If you do your own maintenance and preparation, the following will be a general guide.

Work list

Set your workload list down alongside tools and specific materials required. Add to this a general array of rags, silicone and grease, petroleum jelly, lubricating and penetrating oils, cleaning products, polish and wax brushes, wet and dry sandpaper, rollers and tray, degreaser, tape, engine spares and treatments for your water and fuel tanks. If you haven’t ordered anti-fouling, do so now.

Topsides, hull and keel

Topsides will require a thorough clean-up and polish after the winter lay-up. Repair any problem area such as chips or crazing in the gelcoat. Then apply a protective wax and polish to keep the boat looking pristine throughout the season.

Antifouling

An extensive range of antifouling is available from powerboat finishes to cruising and race coatings. The choice will depend on boat type and use and the location of mooring or marina berth. Advice from your local chandler or boatyard and fellow boat owners in the same area will ensure the best decision on product.

Deck gear, rigging and anchors

Over the winter, dirt, debris and verdigris will have built up on deck if the boat is outside and will need a good scrubbing with perhaps an anti-mould treatment. Teak decks require their own specialist treatment and there is advice on what best to use from the chandlery and online forums. Deck gear needs checking for wear and tear if this was not done at lay-up. Check the stanchion bases for any cracks and any corrosion in lifelines, particularly under plastic sheathing. Replace if suspect. Inspect rigging for broken strands and any cracking at terminals and renew if necessary. Remember if any aspect of rigging is dangerous, boat insurance could be invalid. A sail rigging specialist will carry out a rig inspection for you if you are in any doubt. It’s good to have a check over from the professionals since they can correctly tension the rig which improves efficiency under sail.

Engines, fuel tanks and gas systems

Both inboard and outboard engines need serviced after winter lay-up and this is most often done by your boatyard or an independent engineer. If carrying out your own service, do an oil change and renew filters and anodes. Check exhaust fittings and inspect impellers, engine belt tension and mounts as well as the underside of the shaft. Re-bed if any leaks are apparent.