Boat Maintenance Checklist

Boats need “overhaul ” once in a while just like automobiles. If something vital fails while boating, you can’t just pull over to the curb and call for a tow truck. Good sailors check their boat before setting sail, but there are a lot of essential things that need to be checked before boating season starts and then periodically checked and maintained that could end or postpone your day on the boat depending on the type and size of your boat, and the equipment to you have onboard.

Here’s a sample checklist of items that need to be periodically checked and maintained for safe boating:

• Lubricate all moving parts.
• Inspect and refill battery fluid levels as required
• Inspect hull fittings, and other metal objects including the drain plug for cracks and corrosion.
• Check for hull cracks.
• Check and lubricate all pumps and seacocks as needed.
• Check for debris in the bilge and bilge pumps.
• Check battery terminal connections, fuses and breakers.
• Have sufficient spare fuses and necessary replacements of all items onboard.
• Test any VHF radios, Sonar and Radar and any electronic components.
• Update radios and upgrade software and for electronic components.
• Inventory required safety items, including life jackets; PDF’s, throw cushions/safety rings, restock visual
• distress signals like flares, smoke, etc, or other signaling device.
• Ensure you have a working fire extinguisher.
• Inspect the onboard first aid kit and refill or replace if necessary.
• Verify that your onboard toolbox contains all necessary tools for necessary repairs on the water.

Of course, your boat and all that expensive and essential equipment that goes with it, needs protection even when safely docked. Investing in protective canvas coverings from CMC Canvas LLC will protect your boat and everything in it.