When spring and the good weather approach, we recall how good it felt anchored with our boat in one of the paradisaical coves of Menorca. But we also remember the need to have it in good working order so that nothing upsets the magic of the moment. This always means an annual revision and maintenance of our boat, so that everything works well. What should be done?
- Dry dock for cleaning and painting of the hull.
- Control and replacement of the sacrificial anodes.
- Checking of the hull valves.
- Control of the engines axils.
- Control of the steering mechanisms.
To avoid surprises in this revision, we advise you to check everything once a month yourself or entrust it to an expert. It doesn’t have to be a mechanic; it can be a skipper, but someone with basic knowledge of leisure boats. In the case of any major occurrence (storm, rissaga or nearby fires…), this also requires a check of the boat.
In the monthly inspection you should control the moorings and that the exterior is all in order. Inside the boat you should check whether there is water in the bilges and bale it out if there is. Control the hatchways and openings to check that they are well closed, and that the baling pump (or pumps) work, check that the valves of the toilets are closed, review the voltage of the batteries and turn on the engine or engines for one hour. Have a checklist at hand and going over it point by point is a good way of not forgetting anything. As in life, Prevention is better than cure because it will also mean a major saving in costs.
