To maintain the value of your sailboat and ensure a longer life, the level of maintenance you provide plays a crucial role. Drawing from our diverse service experience, today’s nautical advice encompasses areas that boat owners sometimes overlook!💡

Inspection of the hull and deck. Conduct thorough and regular inspections of composite structures and gelcoat surfaces. This helps to detect osmosis, delamination, cracks, and other structural irregularities. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods such as ultrasound or thermography are valuable for identifying hidden damage.🔎

Analysis of sail condition. “Full sails ahead” only applies if they are flawless – perform a detailed examination of sails using load tests and visual inspections of materials and seams. Pay special attention to UV damage and check for wear identifiers at solid points like reefs and attachments.☀️

Systematic checks of ropes and cables. These are often susceptible to corrosion, breakage, and wear. Test the strength and elasticity of ropes, and be mindful of material resistance to UV light and abrasion.🕵️‍♂️

Technical inspection of the engine and propulsion system. Conduct regular diagnostic tests on the engine, including compression tests and oil analysis, to detect potential issues early. Also, focus on inspecting and balancing the propeller, and don’t forget to check the condition of the shaft and seals.⚙️

Electronics diagnostics. Use a multimeter and insulation tester to identify potential faults. Assess the condition of wiring, the quality of connections, and the operation of critical safety components such as insulation transformers and grounding systems.⚡

Review of safety equipment. In accordance with international maritime regulations, pay special attention to safety along with the equipment that grants it. Include checking expiration dates and certificates for life jackets, EPIRBs, firefighting tools, and other equipment from this field.🛟

Calibration of navigation equipment. Regularly update the software for navigation equipment, including GPS, radars, and autopilots, to confidently choose your routes. Set reminders for accuracy and responsiveness tests for the navigation system as a whole.🧭

Optimization of drainage systems. Frequently test the operation of bilge pumps and drainage systems. Conduct hydrostatic tests of the hull, inspect and clean drainage channels, and filters.💦

By paying attention to the above checklist in maintaining your sailboat, you’ll significantly reduce the chances of issues at sea and ensure that your boat serves you well for a long time, retaining its value for potential resale. For those lacking time in their schedule to properly dedicate themselves to their sailboat, experts with years of experience are just one email away.➡️ service@marinap.si