Boat detailing is all about paying attention to the specific areas of your vessel that need the most care. Yes, you want regular cleaning and maintenance on the exterior, but there is something to be said about proactive care for areas frequently at risk of scratches, sun damage, salt buildup, or excessive mildew.

Boat detailing in Fort Lauderdale is slightly different from the North-East Coast, West Coast or Northern New England. Everyone gets salt damage from open ocean waterways, but Florida has a lot of sun, averaging over 230 days a year, with high UVs. Then there are unexpected afternoon thunderstorms, flight traffic, and the heavy roadways of I-95 and Turnpike that can whip up some dirt and debris that will leave your yacht in less than desirable condition.

In general, you should schedule a thorough boat detailing a minimum of every four weeks. However, if you use your boat more than average, you will want to increase that frequency, such as bi-weekly. 

Start with Products

Start by gathering all your various detailing materials that are stored onboard. Then, ask our team at Ten-Tex Boating to review and advise on the best dependable, eco-friendly materials recommended to keep your particular boat well-maintained. In general, you want:

• Spot removers to treat rust rings and deck stains
• Polishes for stainless, glass, and isinglass enclosures
• Terry cloth and microfiber towels
• Water hose with a plastic spray nozzle
• Compound, polish, and wax

Create a Schedule

The various exterior surfaces of your boat will determine your boat-specific detailing checklist. Preferably, this will be a laminate sheet to keep onboard for reference whenever you or anyone else is inspecting and detailing your vessel. 

For example, list what you need to do by time period. Something like:

Monthly: 

• Wash down and chamois from roof to waterline.
• Spot wax exterior.
• Spot compound any oxidized/weathered paint or gelcoat surfaces.
• Wax any stainless handrails or other larger surfaces.
• Polish isinglass enclosures.
• Treat windows for any salt deposits.
• Clean and protect all vinyl cushions and covers.

Quarterly

• Wax the entire above deck surfaces.
• Inspect the condition of the hull and treat any salt deposits. Wax as needed.

Annually

• Have a knowledgeable friend or family member walk with you to perform a comprehensive inspection.
• Re-treat sunbrella canvass.

On an annual basis, consider repairing any paint or gelcoat damage that accumulated over the past year. 

The easiest way to get your boat detailing completed regularly is to hire our team at Ten-Tex Boating. We can create a custom schedule so you get all the services needed for a pristine, protected, and beautiful finish to your boat or yacht. Give us a call today for any questions you may have, and let’s schedule your next visit.