Bishop Skinner

Yacht Maintenance Checklist

yacht maintenance

• 1. Engine and fuel system

• After heavy usage (such as a single, long trip) 

• Check coolant and oil levels, and top up if necessary

• Check for, follow up and address any fluid leaks

• Check oil pads and replace as necessary    

• If you have reached 100 hours of usage (or as per manufacturer’s instructions), replace the oil and filter 

• Monthly routine

• As per manufacturer’s guidance, apply WD40 to engine, components and control panel to prevent corrosion

• If the boat has not been used that month, start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature 

• Clean the water strainer 

• Annual checks

• Check engine belts for wear and tension. Replace as necessary.

• Check the fuel tank for rust and/or contamination

• Ensure the hoses are not cracked and provide enough slack to account for vibration

• Thoroughly inspect the tank, hose and fittings for evidence of leaks

• Prior to winter storage, check antifreeze level and replace as necessary. Fill the tank prior to storage as per manufacturer’s instruction

• 2. Electrics

• After heavy usage

• Test all batteries for capacity level. Replace if necessary

• Check that all wiring remains neatly bundled and secured and is well-clear of the exhaust system and bilge

• Monthly routine

• Check all running and interior lights and replace bulbs where required

• Inspect bulkhead and engine connections to ensure there is adequate flex with no fraying

• Check that wire connections and terminals remained sealed, with no evidence of corrosion

• Annual checks

• Check water level of battery

• Clean exterior bulb contact points and apply anti-corrosion spray

• 3. Preventing corrosion

• Monthly routine

• Inspect the hull for evidence of corrosion such as leaks, blistered or peeling paintwork, deposits around stainless steel fixtures or whitish powder on an aluminium hull

• Inspect the hull for evidence of corrosion such as leaks, blistered or peeling paintwork, deposits around stainless steel fixtures or whitish powder on an aluminium hull

• Check steering cables, engine cables and connections and gear casings for corrosion

• Annual checks

•  Replace zincs (either annually or every six months as per manufacturer’s instructions)

• 4. Hull maintenance

• Monthly routine 

• Inspect for hull, keel and rudder damage and arrange for any necessary repairs immediately. Treat any scratches or gelcoat damage as per manufacturer’s instructions 

• Check the condition of the teak and renew as necessary

• Annual checks

• All yachts require an annual haul-out for anti-fouling, zinc replacement (and repainting, where necessary). Contact your maintenance engineer well in advance of your preferred haul-out time (usually winter) in order to arrange this 

• 5. Bilge pumps and through-hulls

• Monthly routine

• Even where using automatic pumps, inspect blges frequently to ensure they are clean and free to circulate

• Check through-hull strainers, intake and discharge components to ensure they are not blocked by debris or marine growth

• Ensure valve handles are securely attached to enable quick and smooth closure in an emergency

• Inspect plugs and hoses for cracking

• 6. Ensuring crew safety

• Pre-departure checks should include checking the presence and placement of all personal flotation devices, first aid kit and flares. These further checks should also be carried out on a monthly basis:

• Thoroughly inspect flotation devices for wear or abrasion. If inflation devices are incorporated into a PFD, ensure the cartridges are secure and charged.

• Check the use-by date on flares

• Ensure fire extinguishers are in their designated accessible positions, and that they have been professionally inspected and appropriately tagged as up to date

• Ensure lifelines or rails are in good condition

• Test to ensure CO and fire alarms are working

• Ensure you are up to date with galley stove inspection and servicing