How to Spring Clean Your Boat Like a Pro

Spring is in the air! It's been a much needed, very snowy winter for our crew in Bend, Oregon. Even our Knoxville, TN, location felt the season drag on. If you're eager for those first days on the water, it's time to get your boat ready for the season ahead. Whether you're an avid wakesurfer all geared up in your drysuit or just looking to enjoy an early season cruise, a clean and well-maintained boat is essential for an enjoyable, hassle-free experience. In this post, we'll provide you with some tips and tricks for spring cleaning your boat so you're ready for the season.

Boat Spring Cleaning Checklist

I. Exterior Cleaning
A. Wash the hull and non-skid surfaces
B. Clean the windows and hatches
C. Polish metal and chrome accents
D. Clean the canvas and vinyl covers

II. Interior Cleaning
A. Remove and clean all cushions, life jackets, and stowed items
B. Clean out your beverage cooler (and restock!)
C. Wipe down all surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner

III. Mechanical Inspection
A. Check the engine and battery
B. Inspect the fuel and electrical systems
C. Check the ballasts systems and pumps

IV. Safety Check
A. Check the life jackets and other safety equipment
B. Inspect the fire extinguishers and flares
C. Check the navigation lights and horn
D. Check the first aid kit and emergency supplies

Spring Cleaning Your Boat

Step 1: Start with a thorough cleaning
The first step to getting your wakeboat ready for the season is to find your headphones, choose some good tunes or a solid podcast, and gather your supplies. It's time to give your vessel a thorough cleaning.

Even if your winterization routine included cleaning your boat, winter storage can still leave it looking a bit dusty and grimy. Start by washing the exterior of the boat with a mild detergent and water, scrubbing the hull, and cleaning the windows and windshield. You'll also want to clean any vinyl surfaces, such as the seats and upholstery, and give the flooring a good scrubbing.

Step 2: Check and replace any worn parts
Once your boat is clean, it's important to inspect it for any signs of wear and tear. Check the propeller for damage, and replace any worn parts, such as the impeller or hoses. Do a check on the battery and electrical systems. Again, replace any damaged or worn parts, and perhaps stock a few spare fuses.

Step 3: Inspect and maintain the engine
Vroom, vroom, party starter. Your engine is the heart of your wakeboat, so it's important to make sure it's in good working order. Change the oil and filter, and check the spark plugs and fuel filter.

Step 4: Clean and maintain the ballast system
If you've already dialed in your wake with the perfect ballast system, you'll want to clean and maintain it before the season starts. Check the ballast tanks and inspecting the pumps and hoses for any signs of wear. Clean the tanks with a mild detergent and water, and flush the system with fresh water. 

Step 5: Check the safety equipment
Before you hit the water, it's important to check all of the safety equipment on your boat. Nobody wants to put on a moldy life jacket. Eww. Check that your PFDs are clean and undamaged. Check your flares, fire extinguishers, and other emergency gear. Make sure everything is in good working order and replace any expired or damaged items.

To wrap up, spring cleaning your wakeboat is an essential part of getting ready for the season ahead. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your boat is in top condition and ready for you to have fun on the water!