Here are some things we’ve learned that will make your boating life better

A luxurious superyacht is the reality for some, but an aspiration for most other boaters. These crafts have everything and the kitchen sink in them, so there’s usually little you can improve on them – and we don’t recommend doing so either, unless the new fittings come from the shipyard themselves. In this article, we will focus on smaller boats and yachts that will benefit from these upgrades, and if done tastefully, it will not hurt – and in some cases, even enhance – the resale value of the crafts. These 5 tips will touch on various parts of boating, like protection and performance, so there is something for everyone here.

Keel bands

This is one of the simplest and cheapest little upgrades a boat owner can perform. A keel band is a strip of metal (preferably stainless steel) that protects the keel from abrasion and impact. The keel is the bottommost structure on the boat, and so naturally it will experience the most bumps and scrapes. If you love to pull up on a secluded beach, this is a great little improvement for you.

Coolers

As mentioned earlier, bigger boats will have everything, including a fridge. Smaller yachts may not, and so before you go looking for a plugged solution, consider first a cooler, or a coolbox. These power-free solutions are simple and compact, and the high end ones can keep perishables and drinks chilled for days. Look for coolers with tie-down slots that can be easily secured onto the boat, and bonus points are given to those that have a telescopic handle and wheels (so you can pull it along like a luggage bag).

Electric Auxiliary Outboard Motors

An auxiliary outboard motor is both a necessity and luxury on modestly-sized boats. You don’t want your kids (or your guests) to paddle back ashore in the event of an engine failure, after all. These backup propulsion systems are traditionally internal combustion units, so they are heavy and large. Thankfully, electric units are becoming more and more available today. They may be expensive, but their weight and space savings are worth it.

Propellers

Propellers are a dark and mysterious science that elicits debate and confusion even amongst seasoned seadogs. The one thing everyone agrees on is that finding the right combination of shape, diameter, pitch, blade number and material for your boat is a journey of many errors. The final result is worth it, however. Aluminium and alloy props are relatively cheaper, so boaters keen on experimenting should start with them. Once you decide on all the various variables, upgrade to a steel prop as they are stiffer and therefore faster (not to mention sexier as well).

Make your electronics water-resistant

There are two major reasons boaters get stranded out at sea – running out of fuel and electrical failure. The latter is a problem that is more pronounced on fast and affordable planning boats. Some liberties have to be taken when producing a cheaper craft, and coupled with their constant impact with the surface and frequent ingress of water, this puts them at high risk of shorting circuits. Thankfully, the solution is uncomplicated. Replace any old wiring, route them properly with protective tubing and fasten them neatly. Label them, and for added security, use heat-shrink connectors to make them water-resistant. This will make your life easier, and if you do sell your vessel, prospective buyers will be highly impressed.

If you don’t know where to start, this short list is good for that, and as you delve into the depths of the internet to do more research on propellers and keel protection, just remember that your boating experience is unique. No two boats will see the same use and upgrades to the craft will follow your very own usage. You can always get in touch with us too for more ideas and information as well.