Annual Checklist for Yachts and Boats

Reduce failure risks and boost performance with the annual maintenance checklist for yachts and boats. Don’t neglect antifouling paint, engine oil, and safety systems.

4 min read

An annual maintenance plan for yachts directly affects vessel safety and performance. Taking time for regular checks prevents unexpected failures. Planned maintenance also protects your budget. You can perform regular maintenance using the guide created by Marisonia.

Before starting, don’t forget to check out Marisonia for your boat maintenance routine!

Hull and Underwater Maintenance

The fundamental maintenance on boats is cleaning the hull. Biofouling significantly reduces boat performance; therefore, seasonal maintenance is necessary.

Renewing Antifouling Paint

Antifouling paint increases hull roughness, which decreases speed. A two-coat application is required to keep the surface uniform. Sanding and pressure washing can be done before application.

Looking for an antifouling paint alternative? Meet Marisonia!

Anode Replacement

Anodes stop galvanic corrosion. If wear exceeds 50%, install new ones to protect the hull and propeller surfaces.

Propeller and Shaft Inspection

Notches or bends on the propeller increase fuel consumption. Shaft alignment should be measured with a laser. Tight flap (trim tab) connections reduce vibration.

Chain and Windlass Lubrication

Chain rollers are coated with hard grease. The windlass gear is cleaned of sea salt. Regular lubrication reduces friction when anchoring.

Using Antifouling

Environmentally conscious antifouling solutions delay biofouling in the short term but are harmful long term and carry high hidden costs.

Engine and Mechanical Systems

Engine oil and mechanical system health affect all components. Fuel performance to electronic parts all depend on mechanical systems.

Engine Oil and Filter Change

Oil change is one of the most critical maintenance steps. Change engine oil at least once a year. New oil reduces friction and prevents overheating. Filter changes trap dirt particles.

Fuel and Water Filter Maintenance

Fuel filters protect injectors by trapping sediment. Water filter replacement keeps freshwater lines clean. Synchronizing both filter changes extends engine life.

Bilge Pump Test

Run the pump in automatic mode and monitor water flow. Replace parts if float switch fails. A clean bilge prevents bad odors.

Generator Service

Check generator oil, belt tension, and exhaust hose. Voltage should remain stable during load tests. Regular servicing ensures uninterrupted cabin power.

Electrical and Electronic Checks

Proper functioning of electrical and electronic systems is vital. Without it, navigation errors or fire risks can arise. Follow these steps during maintenance:

Battery Maintenance and Charge Test

Battery voltage should not drop below 12.6 V. Apply dielectric grease on terminals to prevent oxidation. Chargers must provide stable amperage. This is a critical precaution.

Electrical Cable Oxidation

Green oxide reduces conductivity. Clean cables with a wire brush and cover with heat shrink sleeves. Proper connections reduce sparking risks.

Radar, GPS, and Software Updates

Firmware updates enhance navigation safety. Map databases provide current marina info. Screen calibration improves sensitivity.

NMEA Network Health Check

Measure backbone voltage and terminator resistance. Replace connectors if any device is offline. A healthy network ensures accurate sensor data.

Safety Equipment

Safety gear protects you during emergencies. No compromises should be made on safety, preventing issues like sinking or fire during voyages.

Fire Extinguisher Replacement and Test

Expired extinguishers don’t provide protection. Pressure gauge should be in green zone. Upside-down test disperses chemicals.

Liferaft and Lifejacket Check

Send liferaft for service if certificate is expired. Weigh CO₂ cartridges in lifejackets. Check that whistle and light accessories work.

Smoke and Gas Detector Inspection

Press sensor button to test alarm. Replace battery when low. Gas detector should be near the hose connection.

Comfort and Equipment Systems

Don’t sacrifice comfort on blue cruises. Air conditioning helps reduce weather impacts.

Watermaker Maintenance

Membrane cleaning solution dissolves lime. Low pH wash extends membrane life. Replace pre-filter set every six months.

Air Conditioning and Heating Filter Replacement

Clogged air filters reduce cooling capacity. New filters prevent odors. Checking condensate pump avoids water overflow.

Sail and Mast Equipment Inspection

Main sail halyard should have even tension. Replace rusty mast pins. Lubricate wind direction indicators.

Winterizing and Document Renewals

Store your boat safely off-season and renew documents to sail worry-free next season.

Winterizing Procedures

Rinse engine with fresh water. Add fuel stabilizer. Keep cabin ventilation clear.

Insurance, Registration, and Certificate Renewals

Check insurance coverage. Apply for license renewals before deadlines. Also verify VHF license validity.

Marina Maintenance Service Price Comparison

Marinas announce maintenance campaign rates early in season. Compare prices for crane, painting, and storage packages to save budgets.

Add Marisonia to Your Routine!

Regularly checking your annual maintenance list ensures peaceful boating seasons. Including Marisonia adds many benefits. It eliminates biofouling without harming the environment.

It prevents barnacles from attaching with ultrasonic frequencies so low they can’t be heard. No biofilm build-up means fuel savings.

Join hundreds of subscribers today to say goodbye to biofouling problems for good.