Memorial Day is the traditional start of the boating season, which means the start of boat maintenance season. To keep the boat running right, the long holiday weekend is perfect for a few pre-season projects.
We’ve compiled a list of the top maintenance tasks and found the best price on the gear to get the job done. Just roll up your sleeves and use our tips to make the boat shipshape.
Save up to 20% Off
Sailing Hardware and Sailing Lines
A cold, dry winter and warm, wet spring present perfect conditions for rotting boat lines and corroding hardware. Check dock lines, anchor lines, and rigging for wear and tear before heading on the water. Prepare for the season by fixing broken hinges and latches, sprucing up trim and accessories and replacing corroded nuts, bolts and screws. West Marine’s Memorial Day Sale is a good time to stock up on hardware and parts that most often need replacement.
West Marine Inflatables and Rigids
Don’t get stranded on shore. It’s time to replace the rigid inflatable tender. If the boat’s vinyl is cracked or worn and the metal parts are loose or damaged, don’t take a chance with a leaky teaky. A new tender with an aluminum or fiberglass deck is ready for shore-side trips and dock-side parties for years. Learn more about owning and operating an inflatable dinghy.
Recreation and Lifestyle
The boating lifestyle is all about creature comforts. This is the year to add a gas grill, replace the deck chairs or pick up a kayak to explore the coast at the next anchorage. Nothing beats a hot, juicy burger at a Memorial Day sandbar party. Portable gas grills mount to the boat rail or a rod holder for an impromptu picnic. Over the years, a deck chair’s upholstery cracks, and the foam takes on water. When it’s time to replace boat seating, upgrade to more comfortable and durable deck chairs.
Safety Gear
The most important pre-season check assures safety equipment is in perfect condition and ready for an emergency. Review the expiration dates on flares, fire extinguishers and the life raft. Recharge the CO2 cartridges in inflatable life vests. Inspect life vests and throwable cushions for wear and tear. If there’s any doubt, throw it out and purchase a replacement for peace of mind. Check out Boating Mag’s complete list of pre-season safety checks.
Anchors, Dock Lines, Fenders and More
Don’t miss out on the dock party. Worn dock lines, damaged bumpers and unsecure storage put the boat at risk. Freshen the lines and bumpers each season so they will secure the boat through thunderstorms and extreme tides. A new dock box keeps gear and rigging dry, safe and secure so it’s there when you need it. Anchor lines aren’t just for the sand bar party, a solid anchor and strong rode secure the boat in an emergency. Inspect the length of the anchor rope, chain, pins and links for corrosion and damage. If the boat loses power, throw the anchor to secure the boat and prevent it from drifting into danger.
Cleaners and Paints
From washing and waxing to scraping and painting, cleaning and protecting the boat’s exterior is a constant battle against the elements. Start the season with a fresh coat of paint and a thorough compound and wax. Then keep the boat looking good with soap and solvents that remove dirt and grime and protect surfaces from wear and tear. Make the job easier with a fresh deck brush and boat bucket. Learn more about washing a boat and protecting the finish to keep the boat looking and running great.
Engine Care
Everyone knows water and electricity don’t mix, that’s why inspecting and replacing batteries and lights is a regular routine for boaters. Batteries require replacement every couple years and lights go out when you need them most. Don’t let a dead battery strand you in the middle of nowhere, carry a portable charger to get the motor started and charge other smartphones and other electronics. Before tackling engine maintenance, use Boating Mag’s picks for the best pre-season tools.
Up to $1,500 Savings on Electronics
Marine electronics are getting better and better and more and more expensive. Saving a few bucks on the latest fish finder and navigation hardware makes the boat safer and boating more fun. Upgrade the boat with the most powerful charting and navigation software and the most detailed and versatile sonar with the hardware and tools to make installation a breeze. Get great ideas for electronics packages to meet your needs in Boating Mag’s guide to marine electronics.
Apparel, Accessories and Footwear
Before the weather turns nice it’s time to go through the closet and throw out last year’s old, worn clothes and shoes. Update the wardrobe with fresh threads and kicks featuring the latest sun-protective and water-resistant fabrics. Prepare for the summer showers and afternoon squalls with advanced rain gear featuring breathable and water-resistant material and ergonomic and comfortable fit.
BOGO 50% Off
Go-Anywhere Chairs and Beanbags
For the long ride out and watching the sunset at the end of the day, a good deck chair is worth its weight in gold. When the boat is rocking and bouncing, an overstuffed bean bag smooths the ride. When the seas calm and the party starts, durable and comfortable folding dock chairs let everyone join the fun. Stainless steel construction and UV-resistant material keep the chair looking and feeling great. A wide stance and rubber tipped legs keep a chair planted in rough seas.
