The words spring boat maintenance might not spark excitement, but a little prep work now means smooth sailing all summer long. To help you tackle the essentials, we spoke with the experts at Ancasta Yacht Services for their top tips on getting your yacht in peak condition before the season begins.
Inspect the Hull
If your boat spent the winter on the hard, this is your chance for a thorough hull check. Look over the keel, skeg, and rudder for any scratches, gouges, or abrasions. Pay special attention to through-hull fittings and the area around the rudder—catching small issues now prevents bigger problems later.
Freshen Up the Decks
No matter where your yacht was stored, a deep exterior clean is a must. Use marine-specific products: a mild detergent for the hull, a good polish for metalwork, and specialised cleaners for teak decks. As you clean, clear scuppers and drains and check window seals to prevent future leaks.
Inspect & Maintain Deck Hardware
Start at the bow and work your way sternward, checking:
- Stanchions, pulpits, lifelines – ensure they’re secure
- Chain plates and cleats – look for corrosion or weakness
- Anchor system – clean and grease as needed
- Winches – service and lubricate for smooth operation
- Hatches & portlights – test for leaks and replace seals if necessary
Tackling these tasks now keeps you sailing instead of stuck in repairs mid-season.
Restore Sails & Canvas Covers
Sails, biminis, dodgers and covers often bear the brunt of winter storage. If you didn’t remove and launder sails before lay-up, inspect them now for chafe and wear. A little TLC can extend their lifespan and keep them looking sharp.
Rigging Check: Safety First!
A faulty rig can be dangerous and costly, so a pre-season rig check is essential. While a professional inspection is recommended, you can start by:
- Ensuring split pins and rings aren’t missing
- Checking shackles are locked and seized
- Inspecting wire rigging for fraying or breakage
- Making sure guard wires are secure
Many insurance policies require a rigging inspection—better to be safe than sorry!
Engine Servicing: Keep Things Running Smoothly
Your engine is the heart of your boat, so keep it in top shape with regular servicing. Depending on usage, a full engine service should be done at 50, 250, 500, and 750-hour intervals.
A standard service includes:
- Visual inspection & general clean
- Oil & filter change
- Gearbox oil level check
- Inspection of air filters, V-belt, impeller, and anodes
Stock up on essential spares like fuel filters, coolant, and engine oil—it’s always better to have them on hand than be caught off guard.
Electrical System Check
Your boat’s electrical system powers everything from navigation to galley appliances, so give it a thorough check-up. Make sure:
- Connections are clean, tight, and corrosion-free
- Wiring is inspected for wear and chafe
- Batteries and shore power are in good shape
- Spare bulbs and fuses are stocked—especially for nav lights
Upgrade Your Tech
Got new gadgets over the winter? Now’s the time to install, update, and integrate any new systems. If you’re adding power-hungry appliances, consult a marine electrician to assess your power needs, especially for bluewater cruising.
Deep Clean & Refresh the Interior
After months of winter storage, cabins can feel stale. Start by airing out the space, then:
- Deep-clean upholstery, carpets, and surfaces
- Restock the galley
- Service the heads and freshwater system
A professional valet can work wonders, leaving your interior fresh and ready for guests.
Safety Equipment: Check & Service
Your safety gear is only useful if it works. Make sure:
- Liferafts, lifejackets, EPIRBs, and MOB equipment are up to date
- Flares aren’t expired—replace and dispose of old ones properly
Ready to Set Sail?
By working through this checklist, you’ll ensure your yacht is shipshape for summer. But if it feels like too much, the experienced team at Ancasta Yacht Services is always on hand to lighten the load and get your boat ready for the best season yet.
Fair winds and happy sailing!
