Are you the proud owner of a brand-new boat? If you’ve never owned your own boat in the past and you want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to look after your current boat well, there are some fundamental care tips you should keep in mind. From practicing proper towing and storage procedures to securing essential accessories and more, here are the three basics of boat care you should consider putting into practice from day one.
- Ensure You’ve Purchased All Necessary Boating Accessories
Even if you have a high-quality boat, you’ll still likely need several boating accessories in order to run the boat effectively and make the most of your time out on the water. Depending on how much you want to splurge, you can purchase just the basics or go all-out for a more luxurious boating experience. Some common (and often necessary) accessories to look for include:
- A marine GPS
- A holder for fishing rods
- Tow tubes
- Life jackets
- One or more boat lifts South Florida
- A comprehensive first aid kit
- Learn the Basics of Boat Towing and Storage
As a new boat owner, there’s a good chance you’ll need to tow and store your boat frequently. This means it’s worthwhile to learn the basics of proper boat towing and storage. To get started, remember to:
- Attach the boat trailer to the towing vehicle
- Park the boat in a safe and approved location
- Cover the boat if left outdoors during serious weather events
- Keep Your Boat in Good Shape With Responsible Maintenance
Frequent boat maintenance with every use can help you avoid larger problems and repair bills later on. Keep your boat in top shape by:
- Keeping the exterior and interior of the boat as clean as possible
- Replacing worn-out engine belts and propellers
- Replacing the engine oil as needed
- Avoiding getting water in the boat’s fuel
- Regularly replacing old spark plugs and fuel hoses
Without proper care, your boat may not hold up well over time, and you could be putting yourself and your passengers at risk. However, by mastering the fundamentals of boat care before taking your new boat out on the water for the first time, you can help ensure that your boat stays in good condition and that you and others stay safe. Make sure you have appropriate boating accessories, learn about proper towing and storage, and practice boat maintenance on a regular basis.
