5 Tips To Prepare Your Boat for the Summer

Summertime sunshine means it’s boating season again! Whether you set sail on the open seas, down rivers, or across lakes, summer is the perfect time to make the most of your boat. Relaxing out on the water under the warm sun puts all your winter blues behind you. Get ready for a fun and successful boating season with these five tips on how to prepare your boat for the summer.

1. Conduct a Maintenance Checkup

Making sure your boat functions as intended while still on land can save you a lot of hassle in the future. Nobody wants to be stuck on the water with a malfunctioning engine, busted propellor, or a leak. After a long off-season hibernation, your vessel’s systems might be a little out of practice. Conduct a maintenance checkup to make sure that everything on your boat is still in tip-top shape for smooth sailing.

2. Review Registrations and Licenses

In most places, any vessel powered with a motor or sail requires a state registration and license. Some lakes and rivers also mandate park passes and registration. Look over your registrations and boat licenses to make sure everything is up-to-date and valid. If you plan on fishing, don’t forget to check your fishing license as well and re-familiarize yourself with local laws.

3. Clean the Interior and Exterior

Like anything else, boats collect dust after a prolonged time out of use. Depending on where you store it, it might have dirt and other debris on it, too. Cleaning your boat’s interior and exterior before putting it back into action makes your boating experience more enjoyable and keeps your vessel in good condition.

Pro Tip

Summer prep is the perfect time to give your boat a fresh paint job to spruce it up for the sailing crowds.

4. Restock and Refill Essential Supplies

Restock and refill your boat with all the essentials before embarking on your next water adventure to be prepared and in full operation when you set sail. Some liquids might need a top-off or refresh, including motor oil and fuel. In addition, you should refill supplies in your safety emergency kits. Prep your onboard supplies to get ready for a safe and smooth boating excursion.

5. Transport Your Boat Closer to the Water

Boats that spend the off-season in a garage, driveway, parking lot, or storage unit are often well away from your desired launch point or summer home. Hook your boat up to a trailer and transport your vessel closer to the water. For long-hauls, invest in a boat moving service to guarantee a safer, smoother, and hassle-free transportation process. Getting your boat closer to the water puts you one step closer to setting sail and kick-starting your boating season.

With these tips on how to prepare your boat for the summer, you’ll be ready to set sail in no time. Enjoy the warmer weather, sunshine, and refreshing waters out on a boat that’s ready for anything.