Summer season will be here soon but before you hit the water, it’s important to take the time to conduct basic checks, services and boat maintenance to ensure everything is adequately equipped and ready ahead of the peak period. Nick Jones, has been working been working in yachting for the past 15 years and recommends boaters get their checks and services done sooner rather than later.
“My advice is to plan out maintenance in advance to ensure you’re not left rushing to get it ready for the next perfect day out.”
Nick also recommends using good weather apps before you go out, suggesting, “it’s always beneficial to source weather updates from at least a couple of different sources as they tend to interpret weather models differently. And of course, always leave the dock with a plan”.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of must-dos to help get you ready for the summer ahead:
First aid and safety gear
Before you do anything, conduct a thorough check of your first aid and safety equipment. Make sure you have accessible life jackets, your first aid kit is compliant, and you have sufficient flares with new batteries in them.
Victorian requirements vary by vessel type and conditions, so it’s worth doing a quick compliance check before you head out:https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/on-the-water/recreational-boating/safety-equipment/
Engine and battery
Arrange a full engine service and battery check before you go anywhere. Boats are built to be used, so if they have been slightly stagnant during the quieter season then chances are they will be less reliable and in need of jolting back to life. The same goes for boaters – once you’ve done all your checks and services, it’s worthwhile taking the boat out briefly to re-familiarise yourself with it before taking any bigger trips and/or the family out in tow.
Insurance and registration
Make sure your insurance and registration haven’t expired and all your contact details are up to date with your providers. If your boat is berthed at Hidden Harbour Marina, check to make sure that Owner’s Corporate have a copy of your current insurance policy.
Sailboats
Your deck hardware blocks, shackles and sheet winches should be checked and serviced well before you hit the water. An assessment of any UV damage – and whether or not it is beyond a normal level – should be addressed, and while it may seem obvious, remember to keep your sails clean throughout summer to minimise salt and debris damage.
Photo credit: @artemverbo
Check Fuel Tanks For Condensation
Tanks that are not full can attract condensation, resulting in water in the fuel, which is not great for the engine. This is particularly common in plastic tanks but can also occur in stainless steel tanks.
Trailer boats
Don’t forget to check your trailer! Ensure registration is up to date and all lights are working. Things like the safety chain, winch and jockey wheel should also be checked. And most importantly, ensure the wheel bearings are greased and all tyres are intact and have sufficient air (including the spare).
Handy boating apps
- Wind maps and forecasts: https://www.windy.com/
- Tide times: https://www.mytidetimes.com/
- Local wind: https://www.seabreeze.com.au/
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