Boat owners planning to go cruising this summer are being encouraged to plan and book their summer hull maintenance now, before boatyards and marine trades enter their busiest period.
A little preparation in spring can help prevent delays, unexpected costs and cancelled cruising plans when summer arrives.
“It’s tough when boat owners leave maintenance until the last minute and then find the haul-out, tradespeople or parts they need aren’t available,” says Sam Happy, Senior Regional Marine Biosecurity Advisory with Auckland Council.
“Make a list of the maintenance your boat needs, talk to your boatyard and book your contractors early. That gives you time to deal with any additional problems uncovered during the haul-out, without putting your summer holiday at risk.”
“Clean boats perform better, use less fuel and help prevent marine pests from being carried to new locations,” says Happy. “Biofouling can build up on the hull and in less visible areas such as propellers, shafts, intakes and around the keel. An up-to-date antifoul coating or recent clean is the best way to manage it.”
“This is particularly important for boats travelling between regions or visiting high-value ecological areas. Different marine biosecurity requirements apply around New Zealand, so boat owners should check the rules for their destination before setting out. Best practice is to maintain a clean hull with no more than a light slime layer”
“You don’t want a maintenance issue to spoil your holiday, and you don’t want to arrive at your destination and discover your boat doesn’t meet the local biofouling requirements,” she says.
Planning should cover more than antifouling. Boat owners may also need to arrange engine servicing, anodes, propeller or shaft work, electrical repairs and safety equipment checks. Some boatyards recommend opting for a thorough clean ahead of summer and booking in the big jobs when things get a little quieter towards the end of summer.
Boat owners can find practical hull-maintenance advice, biofouling rules, and a directory of haul-out facilities at www.marinepests.nz.
