For many sailing enthusiasts, buying your own yacht can be a rewarding experience. Owning a boat is expensive, so you need to perform regular maintenance to preserve its value and ensure that it stays in excellent condition. Remember that the larger the yacht, the more complex your maintenance care should be. Here are some maintenance tips to help you keep your boat in its best condition.

Know your vessel

Aside from knowing how to navigate your yacht safely, you should be familiar with the interior and exterior and know how to carry out simple maintenance tasks. Research the manufacturer of your boat, and make sure to read the owner’s manual. You can also ask your broker any questions that you have on the servicing schedule of your yacht. It will also help if you keep a maintenance log to keep track of the work done on your yacht. This will be helpful if ever you decide to sell your boat.

Clean your yacht regularly

To keep your vessel in excellent shape, wash your yacht thoroughly after every outing. Make sure that you clean it to prevent corrosion, especially if you sail in salt water. Remove any visible elements, and make sure to use cleaning products that are exclusively designed for your yacht to protect the finish. You can also wipe off dirt using a cloth or soft sponge. If you are unsure of what products to use, be sure to consult with an expert or a yacht servicing professional to prevent your vessel from being damaged. Another alternative is to have your yacht cleaned by a professional boat cleaning company.

It is also vital that you clean the bottom of your yacht, especially during warmer months. Have a professional cleaner or diver remove any barnacles and other forms of marine organisms that may have attached themselves to the bottom of your boat.

Check the engines and systems constantly

After a trip, make sure to check all your systems. Ensure that your cooling system, batteries, air conditioning, oil system, exhausts, and pumps are functional. Beware of any damage, leaks, or rust that could harm your vessel. Make it a point to replace used oil at the start of yachting season, and always check your propeller to ensure that all parts are complete.

Properly store your yacht

One of the common dilemmas of boat owners is where to store their vessels. As a responsible boat owner, you need to ensure its safety when keeping it on the water. Improper mooring can cause irreversible and costly damages to your yacht and the surrounding vessels. While it might be tempting to take advantage of the free mooring options available, leaving your boat unattended in an unsecured location can prove to be a costly mistake. To ensure the safety of your vessel, consider investing in a private and secured berthing facility such as Emerald Landing.

While several companies offer professional maintenance services for your yacht, having the basic knowledge on how to keep your boat in perfect shape will prove beneficial in the long run. Remember that your yacht represents a considerable investment, so you need to exert the necessary effort to preserve its value.