It is important to take regular care of the boat, because that way it stays in the best possible condition for as long as possible. Regular cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your boat and reduce the overall amount of maintenance required. Cleaning and maintenance are extremely important both in the springtime before the start of boating season and also at the end of it. Here are some general instructions, which will hopefully be useful for beginners and serve as a checklist for the more experienced.
For normal cleaning, fresh water and a soft brush or sponge are usually sufficient. Special boat care or mild general purpose cleaning agents may be used if needed, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember to avoid alcohol-based agents, solvent based agents or cleaning agents that contain acids. Solvent-based cleaning agents must also not be applied to the consoles and other plastic components. Drainage holes should be cleaned regularly to remove any dirt and prevent blockages.
You can clean the boat’s windshield with mild general-purpose cleaners, dishwashing liquid or glass cleaners with a lint-free soft towel or sponge. Never use a dry cloth or paper to wipe the boat’s plexiglass windshield. Windshields with wipers are made from tempered glass and can be cleaned in the same way as plexiglass windshields but are less prone to scratching.
Chafe, oxidation and stubborn staining can be removed from non-surface treated aluminium surfaces mechanically using fine-grade abrasive polish. After abrasive polishing, the aluminium surfaces can be protected using waxing products or protective oil. Do not use abrasive polishing or wax products on anodized aluminium surfaces, such as fittings and railings.
It is also important to regularly wash and maintain the hull of the aluminium boat. After lifting the boat out of the water, wash the exterior hull immediately, as it is easiest to remove any algae and dirt when the hull is still wet. You can use a pressure washer or brush with fresh water.
Aluminium surfaces above the waterline can be protected using a thin layer of protective oil for aluminium hulls or similar multipurpose oil. Before winter storage, spray a generous layer of protective oil onto the aluminium hull, but do not wipe it off. Instead, leave the oil on the surface and wipe it clean only in the spring. This will also remove any dirt and dust that has accumulated during winter storage.
Wax protects the boat’s fiberglass parts and makes it easier to keep clean. Always clean your boat thoroughly after the boating season and apply wax to the fibreglass surfaces before the start of the next boating season.
More detailed instructions can be found in the following link below.