After months in storage, your boat is ready to see the sun again. But before you hit the water, it’s worth taking the time to prep and protect it properly. A little effort now can help prevent wear, damage, and unnecessary cleaning later in the season.
Here’s how to get your boat ready for summer—inside and out—with long-term protection in mind.
1. Inspect Everything. Then Inspect Again.
Start with a thorough inspection. Look for cracks, rust, or loose fittings. Check fluid levels, belts, hoses, and electrical systems. If your boat has been winterized, reverse that process carefully: charge your battery, replace filters if needed, and reconnect your fuel system.
The goal here isn’t just to get your boat running—it’s to make sure you’re not setting yourself up for mid-season breakdowns.
2. Deep Clean the Exterior
Winter grime and mildew don’t stand a chance against a proper washdown. Choose a marine-safe cleaner like DiTEC’s Boat Soap, which lifts dirt and salt without harming your paint, wax, or the water you’re floating on. It's a great way to restore shine and set the stage for protection layers to follow.
For tough bottom stains or discoloration along the waterline, Hull & Bottom Cleaner is your go-to. It safely removes buildup without damaging the surface beneath.
3. Restore and Seal Teak
If your boat features teak decking or trim, it needs extra attention. Winter exposure can leave it gray, faded, or moldy. Start with a quality teak cleaner like Teak Clean or Teak Magic to lift the grime, then brighten the wood for that rich, golden tone. Read about the differences between Teak Clean and Teak Magic here.
To keep it golden and beautiful all summer long, apply a sealant like Triton Teak Shield. It helps block out moisture, UV rays, and future stains so you’re not deep cleaning again in a few weeks.
4. Protect Metal and Other High-Wear Areas
Don’t let rust or corrosion sneak in during the summer months. Stainless steel, chrome, and aluminum fixtures need protection from salt, sun, and water. Metalon PX cleans, polishes, and leaves a protective layer to help keep metal parts shining and strong.
Now’s also a great time to clean and coat other surfaces that take a beating. Protect your windows and other glass with Glasstec. This protective product blocks UV rays, reduces buildup, and prevents you from having to clean as frequently. Think of it like magical sunscreen for your boat.
5. Stock Up, Check Safety Gear, and Organize
Double-check your safety gear: fire extinguishers, life jackets, first-aid kit, flares, and navigation lights. Make sure everything’s in good condition and up to date.
While you’re at it, restock essentials like rope, fenders, cleaning wipes, microfiber towels, sunscreen, and spare parts. Staying organized now saves stress later.
6. Apply a Lasting Protective Finish
If you want your boat to stay cleaner longer and look better all summer, apply a surface protectant after washing like PROTEC 1. This step makes future cleanup faster and shields against UV damage, oxidation, water spots, and more.
Whether it’s your hull, metal, teak, or vinyl, sealing and protecting is the smartest move you can make for the season ahead.
Protect Now, Enjoy Later
Protect your investment so it stays in great shape all season long. A few hours now can save you days of scrubbing, repairing, or replacing later.
Need help choosing the right products for your boat’s surfaces? Just ask the captain by clicking the orange button on your screen.
