Why regular boat servicing is essential for Kiwi boaties

If you own a boat in New Zealand, you know how much fun and adventure it can bring to your life. Whether you use it for fishing, cruising, sailing, or water sports, your boat is your ticket to explore the stunning coastline and waterways of this beautiful country.

But owning a boat also comes with responsibilities. You need to take good care of your boat and make sure it is safe and reliable to use. That’s why regular boat servicing is essential for New Zealand boaties. Here are some of the reasons why you should service your boat regularly and how to do it properly.

Benefits of Regular Boat Servicing

Regular boat servicing has many benefits for you and your boat. Here are some of them:

• It keeps your boat in running order. By servicing your boat regularly, you can prevent breakdowns, malfunctions, and costly repairs. You can also extend the lifespan of your boat and its components, such as the engine, propeller, hull, and electrical system.
• It ensures your safety on the water. By servicing your boat regularly, you can avoid accidents, injuries, and emergencies caused by faulty equipment or poor performance. You can also comply with the safety regulations and standards set by the authorities and avoid fines or penalties.
• It enhances your boating experience. By servicing your boat regularly, you can improve its performance, efficiency, and comfort. You can also maintain its appearance and value, and enjoy it more.

Tips for Proper Boat Servicing

To get the most out of your boat servicing, you need to do it properly and frequently. Here are some tips to help you:

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Your boat’s manual should have a service schedule that tells you when and how to service your boat and its components. Follow it as closely as possible to ensure optimal performance and warranty coverage.
• Use a reputable service provider. Choose a qualified and experienced technician who knows how to service your boat model and brand. Look for reviews, referrals, or certifications from trusted sources, such as NZ Marine Industry Association or Boating NZ.
• Check your boat before and after each use. Perform a pre-launch inspection to make sure everything is working properly and safely. Check the engine oil, fuel level, battery charge, water pump, propeller condition, steering system, navigation lights, bilge pump, safety equipment, and trailer. Perform a post-launch inspection to clean and flush your boat with fresh water, remove any debris or salt build-up, drain any water from the hull or engine, and cover or store your boat properly.
• Service your boat at least once a year. Even if you don’t use your boat often, you still need to service it at least once a year to prevent deterioration or damage from exposure to the elements. You may need to service it more often if you use it frequently or in harsh conditions.
• Keep a record of your service history. Keep track of when and what you serviced on your boat, as well as any repairs or replacements you made. This will help you plan your next service, monitor your boat’s condition, and prove its value if you decide to sell it.

By servicing your boat regularly and properly, you can keep it in tip-top running order, ensure your safety on the water, and enhance your boating experience for years to come.