We will send you an email to reset your password.
Whether you own a boat for weekend getaways, daily transfers, or watersports, regular cleaning is one of the most important parts of boat care. A clean hull improves fuel efficiency and speed, while a well-maintained deck keeps your boat safe and looking great.
But when is the best time to clean your boat or speed boat? And how often should you be doing it? Let’s break it down.
Best Time of Year to Clean the Hull
If you're based in the Maldives or any tropical region, the dry season (December to April) is hands down the best time to clean your boat’s hull. Here's why:
- Calmer seas make haul-outs or dockside cleaning safer and easier.
- Less rain means your cleaning products stay on longer without being rinsed off prematurely.
- Lower humidity allows for better drying and stronger bonding of polishes or antifouling paint.
This is especially important if you plan to apply a new coat of antifouling or give the hull a deep clean and polish.
How Often Should You Clean the Hull?
It depends on how and where you use your boat:
- For boats kept in the water and used regularly, hull cleaning every 1 to 3 months is ideal to prevent marine growth.
- Speed boats, which rely heavily on clean surfaces for performance, may need more frequent cleaning to maintain efficiency.
- If your boat stays on a trailer, a good clean before and after the season will usually do the trick.
Remember: even a thin layer of algae or barnacles can slow your boat down and increase fuel usage.
Best Time to Clean the Deck
Deck cleaning can be done all year, but early mornings or late afternoons are the best times of day to do it. The midday sun can dry out soaps and cleaners too quickly, leaving streaks or residue.
We recommend:
- A deep clean in November or December to kick off the season.
- Another thorough wash around April or May, especially if the boat won’t be used much during the wet season.
Regular maintenance is key:
- Rinse with fresh water after every trip.
- Use proper marine cleaners for non-skid surfaces, stainless steel, and glass.
- Don’t forget drainage areas. Clean gutters and scuppers to avoid mold and blockages.
Pro Tips
- Go for eco-friendly products that are safe for marine life.
- Keep a maintenance log. It helps track what was done and when.
- Book a professional hull polish at least once a year for best results.
Final Thoughts
Boat cleaning isn’t just about keeping things shiny. It directly impacts your boat’s performance, safety, and resale value. By choosing the right times to clean and staying on a regular schedule, you’ll make the job easier and your boat better.