December 12, 2022
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Fall Boat Care and Maintenance

Fall is a beautiful time of year in Southern California, and as the leaves begin to turn and a crispness lingers in the air, it’s the perfect time to prepare your boat for winter. To ensure that your boat stays in great condition all season long, follow these simple steps for fall boat care and maintenance.

Take All Personal Items Out of Your Boat

Whether you’re getting ready for winter storage or just taking your boat out of the water for the season, it’s important to take all your personal items out of your boat. This will help ensure that your boat is properly maintained and protected from damage.

Some key things to look out for when removing personal items from your boat include:

  • Removing loose objects like fishing poles and tackle boxes, which can shift around during storms and high winds and cause damage to your boat or its equipment.
  • Taking any cushions, covers, or other soft materials off your seats and surfaces, as these can trap moisture and might develop mildew over time.
  • Removing electronics or other expensive equipment that could be damaged by excess moisture or other elements.

If you take the time to properly remove all your personal items from your boat, you can protect your investment and ensure that it is in good condition for years to come.

Man washing the front of yacht

Clean and Vacuum the Inside of Your Boat

Looking after your boat is an important part of maintaining it and keeping it in good condition. One of the best ways to care for your boat is by regularly cleaning and vacuuming the inside.

To clean and vacuum your boat, start by removing any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the floor or seats. Use a soft brush to gently sweep away any loose material, then use a damp cloth to wipe down any areas that still need cleaning.

Next, focus on vacuuming the interior of your boat. Use a sturdy vacuum with a hose attachment to thoroughly clean every surface, including hard-to-reach corners and crevices.

Take Steps to Prevent Mildew

Mildew can be a serious problem for boat owners, particularly during the fall season when temperatures begin to drop and moisture levels increase. To prevent mildew from forming on your boat, follow these simple steps:

  • Keep your boat clean and dry at all times by regularly washing it down with fresh water. This will help remove any moisture build-up and prevent mold and mildew from taking hold.
  • Protect your boat from the elements by storing it in a dry storage location, or at a slip in a marina, when it is not in use. Ideally, you should also invest in high-quality covers or tarps to keep out excess moisture and limit exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
  • Consider using an anti-fungal treatment on your boat’s hull and other surfaces prone to mildew. These treatments are typically available at marine supply stores and can help prevent fungal growth even in the presence of moisture.
  • Regularly inspect your boat for any signs of mold or mildew growth and take steps to remove it as soon as possible. This may involve scrubbing away stains with a stiff brush and cleaning solution, or applying special sprays or mixtures designed specifically for removing mildew from boats.

By taking these steps, you can effectively prevent mildew from forming on your boat and keep it looking its best all year long.

Clean the Boat’s Exterior and Wax

When fall arrives, it’s important to take the time to clean and wax your boat’s exterior. This will help keep it looking its best throughout the season, while also protecting its surface from harmful environmental factors like rain, dirt, and UV rays.

To start, you’ll want to begin by cleaning your boat with a quality cleaner specifically designed for marine applications. Depending on the condition of your boat’s exterior, this may involve scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush or pressure washing. Next, apply a layer of high-quality marine wax to protect the surface and enhance its shine.

Book a Boat Slip at California Yacht Marina in Southern California

Looking for a great place to store your boat during the fall season? Look no further than California Yacht Marina in Southern California! Our state-of-the-art marina facilities in King Harbor and Los Angeles Harbor feature convenient boat storage options that will keep your vessel safe and secure all year long.

Our wide variety of in water boat storage options includes marinas in both Santa Monica Bay and San Pedro Bay featuring boat slips for boats size 25’ to 43’, allowing you to choose the best marina location near you to serve your specific needs. Whether you need easy access to your boat or prefer more privacy, we have a solution that will work for you.

So why wait? Book your boat berthing spot at California Yacht Marina today and start enjoying peace of mind knowing that your prized vessel is in the best hands possible. We look forward to hearing from you soon! Contact us today at 424-201-0467 to learn more!

Fall is a beautiful time of year, and as the leaves begin to turn and a crispness lingers in the air, it’s the perfect time to prepare your boat for winter. To ensure that your boat stays in great condition all season long, follow these simple steps for fall boat care and maintenance.