BOOK APPOINTMENT

How to Detail a Boat

We’ve honed our boat detailing process over years and years across Cape Cod, MA until we’ve found the perfect methods at making our clients’ boats showroom-ready.

Here’s what we do:

Exterior Detailing:

  1. Wash the Hull and Deck:
    • Use a boat-specific soap and a soft brush or sponge.
    • Rinse thoroughly to remove salt, dirt, and grime.
  2. Clean Canvas and Upholstery:
    • Use a marine-grade cleaner for canvas, vinyl, and upholstery.
    • Scrub gently and rinse with water.
  3. Polish and Wax:
    • Apply a marine polish to restore shine and remove oxidation.
    • Follow up with a wax to protect against UV rays and water.
  4. Clean and Polish Metal:
    • Use a metal cleaner to shine stainless steel fittings and rails.
  5. Clean Windows and Hatches:
    • Use a specific cleaner for marine glass or plexiglass.
    • Polish with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine.
  6. Detail the Engine and Lower Unit:
    • Clean the engine compartment and lower unit.
    • Use appropriate cleaners and degreasers for engine components.
  7. Inspect and Treat Non-skid Surfaces:
    • Clean non-skid surfaces with a non-skid cleaner.
    • Apply a protective treatment to maintain grip and prevent stains.

Interior Detailing:

  1. Vacuum and Clean Carpets and Flooring:
    • Vacuum thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
    • Use a carpet cleaner for carpets or a gentle cleaner for other types of flooring.
  2. Clean Interior Surfaces:
    • Wipe down all interior surfaces (wood, fiberglass, plastic) with a boat-specific cleaner.
    • Pay attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas.
  3. Condition and Protect Interior Surfaces:
    • Apply a UV protectant to prevent sun damage to interior surfaces.
    • Use a conditioner on leather seats or upholstery.
  4. Clean and Condition Wood Surfaces:
    • Use a wood cleaner followed by a wood polish or conditioner.
  5. Clean and Organize Storage Areas:
    • Remove items from storage compartments.
    • Clean these areas and organize items neatly.
  6. Check and Clean Electrical Components:
    • Ensure all electrical components are clean and functioning.
    • Use electrical contact cleaner if needed.

Final Touches:

  1. Inspect for Touch-Ups:
    • Check for any areas needing paint touch-ups or repairs.
  2. Apply a UV Protectant to Rubber and Vinyl:
    • Use a UV protectant on rubber seals and vinyl trim to prevent cracking.
  3. Check Safety Equipment:
    • Ensure all safety equipment is in good condition and properly stored.
  4. Apply Marine Grade Protectants:
    • Use a marine-grade protectant on all surfaces for long-lasting protection.

Detailing a boat requires attention to detail and the use of products specifically formulated for marine environments to ensure the best results and longevity of your boat’s appearance and performance.