Boat Corrosion

Buying a boat can be expensive. There are all sorts of things that you need to purchase to go with the boat such as life vests, insurance, gas, stuff for the engine, and things to keep the boat clean. It’s a lot more difficult to maintain a boat than it is to maintain a car. You also have to have a place where you can dock your boat, which depending on the place will cost you quite a bit of money out of pocket. If you’re lucky enough, you can dock your boat on your own property but this is usually not recommended because a) most neighborhoods won’t allow it and b) it doesn’t look that great to have a giant boat docked in either your front or backyard.

When you purchase a boat, there are a number of things you need to keep in mind. One of the biggest problems that boat owners face is corrosion. Contrary to what most may think, there are all sorts of corrosion that can affect your boat. The two main types of corrosion are a) erosion and b) electro-chemical erosion.

Erosion is caused by friction. If you think about it, when your boat is docked in salt water (or just water in general), or if you’re out cruising the ocean in your boat, there are all sorts of particles that rub against your boat. The movement of the particles (ex: such as sand) in the water against your boat can eventually cause a great deal of wear and tear. There is also something called high speed water flow, which is a type of erosion that occurs when your boat is moving at high speeds through water. This type of erosion isn’t as common, but is usually characterized by a sort of pitting that can be seen on the blades behind the propellers on a boat’s engine.

Electro-chemical erosion is the main type of erosion that boat owners most often deal with. Under the umbrella of this type of corrosion are a few different types of corrosion such as electrolysis, galvanism, and crevice corrosion. Electrolysis is caused when stray currents rub against the metal parts of the bottom of the boat, causing corrosion. Galvanism is very similar and deals with the erosion of metal components of your boat due to water interacting with the different alloys. Crevice Corrosion is the most common from of corrosion found on boats made out of fiberglass. As the names suggests, it is a type of corrosion having to do with water, metal and crevices, and it’s effects are similar to galvanism.

There are three ways of detecting corrosion: 1) the appearance of oxides (which is a byproduct of a metal that has chemically changed), 2) copper-based metals like brass and bronze leave green oxides 3) Aluminum corrosion leaves a white residue and stainless steel leaves a reddish-brown residue. Corrosion is inevitable. There is no material out there that can escape the eventual effects of corrosion (including human beings). However, if you are able to detect it, you might be able to take the necessary steps to repair your boat before it’s too late.

Photographing Your Boat

While making photos along the Maine Coast, a number of people have spoken to me about photographing their boats. Basically, they wanted to know the real secrets to making their vessels look so good, especially while at anchor. Truth be told, there are no real secrets…just proven techniques that are well known to many professionals. These techniques are my pleasure to share with you.

When doing fine photography of your boat, you are faced with four areas of concern. Those areas are the vessel itself, your camera equipment and film/media selection, the shoreline in which you work and your lighting conditions. If you approach each component separately, then combine them at the time you make your photos, you should have little or no trouble.

Prepare your boat very carefully. It always surprises me how often this is overlooked. Think of your camera as the most beady-eyed, big mouthed, nit-pickin, purity-of-the-breed marine surveyor you have ever encountered and you’ll do just fine.

Any decent camera that will allow you to work without getting in your way will be more than adequate for this type of photography. I have no personal lens choice for boats, except that, whenever possible, my preference is always for the shortest usable focal length, not the other way around. Remember, it’s your boat...you can get up as close as you like. Film should always be the lowest ISO rating you can comfortably work with. People using digital medium should use the camera’s setting that yields the biggest file. The bigger the file, the more detail will be on the photo, but you don’t have to break the bank on this. Any good digital camera in the 4 to 5 magapixel range will do a nice job if you remember to fill your frame.

The shoreline in which you work is the next thing to consider. I like natural surroundings, free of a lot of clutter. Quiet coves are my favorite. Whatever you do though, don’t allow the background to fight the vessel for your viewer’s attention.

The next concern is your lighting conditions. In the end, good photography is mostly about the light. All film and digital media build contrast. You can correct this by simply making your photos with low contrast illumination. It comes as a surprise to many, but early morning light, besides many times being glorious, is usually less contrasty than mid-afternoon overhead sun. Try it! Late afternoon sun can work as well, but the possibility of haze exists. Experiment to see what works best for you.

Once you have all the elements together the photo is practically made. If you are working from land, use a tripod, even if that means getting the legs wet. The tripod does two good things. First of all, it provides a steady platform for your camera. The second good thing a tripod does is force you to s l o w d o w n. This simple act of not rushing through your photos can make a big improvement in your work. I prefer to set my tripod as low as possible. This angle allows your viewer to see a much more graphic view of your boats shear line. If, however, you have just spent a hundred hours refinishing your teak cabin tops and trim, raise that tripod up all the way to display that beautiful detail work! Nobody knows your boat as intimately as you do…let that fact guide your composition. As an additional step, a little fill flash brings out highlights while adding more detail to the shadow areas. Some testing beforehand will help here. Fill flash works best when the flash itself is not noticeable.

As a final step, look closely into your viewfinder and ask yourself “what’s wrong with this picture?” We know what’s right with the photo; it’s your boat. When you ask yourself the other question a number of things may come sharply into focus. “What’s wrong with this picture? Wow, I’m clipping off the front of the bow rail…there’s a garbage can on the beach showing just under the boom…the curtains in the cabin are crooked…who left that rag dangling over the transom?” Give this last suggestion serious consideration because these are mistakes we all make. Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in what we are doing that we tend to miss important details. Spend a little extra time at this point and you will be rewarded with photos that reflect the work, care and effort you put into your vessel in the first place. Good luck.

Inspecting A Used Boat

A boat, by any stretch of the imagination, is more expensive than a car. As such, when somebody buys a used boat, that somebody had better be prepared to give it a good inspection before signing the dotted line. A used boat is a far bigger financial investment than a car in any situation, particularly when one factors in little things like maintenance. It is an accepted fact in the boating community that with modern boats, maintenance is a bigger factor than age. It is, therefore, imperative that anyone even considering buying a vessel know what and how to look for signs that a vessel was poorly maintained.

Right off the bat, any potential boat owner should know what exactly he intends to use the vessel for, for two reasons. The first reason is that there are countless models out there and picking out the right used boat from among them often comes down to a matter of the design. Knowing what design fits what purpose is vital to narrowing down one's options. The second reason is the countless regulations set by the US Coast Guard. The multitude of things that a boat in a certain category should adhere to can be daunting but must be complied with.

Another thing to remember is that there is absolutely no way to really determine how well-maintained a vessel is unless it is tested. This is because there is no real way to verify the performance capability of a used boat unless one actually takes a short cruise in it. In such a manner, a potential buyer can get a feel for just how the boat cuts through the surface of the water, along with a number of other subtle factors that can only be examined while in water. Coincidentally, a cruise test is also the best way to check if the hull has any leaks and just how bad said leaks are.

Should a cruise test be impractical at the time, there are still things that can be done to determine just how well maintained a used boat is. The most obvious thing to look for would be areas along the hull that have suffered damage. Any damage, even a slight dent, can be used as an indication of poor maintenance or some damage that can be detrimental to the performance and stability. It is also possible to check for salt damage while a vessel is not in the ocean. Since salt can and will affect all areas of a vessel, regardless of the part being above or below the water, no sensible boat owner would dodge the responsibility of preventing salt damage.

Check the hull of the used boat for corrosion both inside and outside. If the surface of the ship has not been properly protected, the boat could easily corrode, compromising the stability of the vehicle and the safety of the passengers. On certain craft, one should also be careful to check the ropes and the rigging, particularly for sailboats. Checking for cracks, particularly in aluminum boats, can also help determine just how well protected a ship was from the natural hazards of the waters. Check if the hull has spots that have suffered discoloration; such discoloration also indicates that the vessel has not been cared for properly.

Naturally, if the buyer has checked the boat, he should also check the engine. A clean engine is integral to a boat since it reduces the chances of the ship just suddenly stopping in the middle of the ocean. A buyer should not expect a used boat engine to be absolutely immaculate but, at the very least, should expect the engine to be free of any clogs and grime. The buyer should also check for rust, since a rusty engine can lead to slower speeds. Should the engine have oil, be sure to take a look at that as well. Foam build-up in the oil may be an indicator of possible seawater contamination in the fuel tanks.

In the end, all of these steps can save anyone a ton of money when buying a used boat. Understandably, not everyone will be able to spot what needs to be spotted. For buyers who have never bought a boat before, used boat or otherwise, it is advisable to bring a boat mechanic along, or someone similarly experienced. If they bought a more experienced person along, first-time buyers need not worry about being fooled by unscrupulous sellers.

Shopping For A Boat

For some people it only takes one experience on a boat for them to realize that they must have one. It probably wont take long to spot that dream boat either. Before you go and sign away your life for it though, there are some things you need to consider and some ways in which to get you the same boat but much cheaper.

Your first task is to decide what type of boating you will be doing. Some boats are more for relaxing on the lake and taking it easy. Other boats are all about water sports. Some are a little bit of both. To make sure you step into the right boat, make sure you think carefully about what you would like to do now and in the future with your boat. Another factor to consider is the size of the bodies of water that you will be taking your boat out on. Obviously if you live in a landlocked area with small lakes there is no need for a boat that is designed for rough seas and big waves.

You should also decide if you want a new or a used boat. In general a used boat will cost letter and is usually a little better equipped for the money you spend. There may be some additional expenses due to repairs and upgrades that may have to be done. With a used boat you want to make sure you research that specific model to identify any potential performance and safety issues. A new boat will not only be more expensive, but will be worth less the minute it leaves the dealers floor.

Going to a boat show is your best opportunity to make comparisons between models you are interested in. Ask lots of questions and don't commit to anything. If you already have a pretty good idea of what you want before you get to a boat show, you may be able to negotiate deals, especially if the companies competing for your business are side by side.

If you don't choose a model from a boat show, then your next step would be to see a broker. A broker is going to walk you through the rest of the process and should help to make it an easy process for you. A broker will help you make the right decisions about engine size and any other features that are important. If you haven't thought seriously about owning a boat before, maybe you should.

Winterizing Your Boat

Winterize your engine in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction manual. This will normally include draining and flushing the cooling system; draining and refilling the crankcase; applying oil to inside of each cylinder through the spark plug holes; and other preservative actions. Thoroughly clean the exterior of the engine; sand and touch up with paint any scarred areas to prevent rusting.

- Thoroughly clean the bottom, decks, cockpit, bilge, all compartments, and lockers.

- Apply a coat of good anti-fouling paint to the bottom, and sand down and prime all other marred surfaces.

- Drain fuel lines, pumps, and carburetor; drain tank or fill completely and add stabilizer.

- Drain and flush out all water systems and tanks; drain the toilets. When water freezes it expands and will usually cause damage.

- Remove the batteries from the boat; store in an area not subject to freezing temperatures; test periodically with hydrometer and charge if necessary.

- Place a light coating of grease over all chrome plated metal surfaces.

- Leave all floorboards up, doors ajar, ports and skylights open, hatches partly open, drawers and lockers open.

- Carefully fit a well-made winter cover, provided with ventilation ports, if boat is to be stored outdoors.

Additional Diesel engine winterizing tips.

- Drain crankcase and transmission and refill with fresh lubricant as specified in owner's manual. Change oil filters.

- Drain and clean all fuel filters and change elements, gaskets and seals. Bleed all air from fuel system.

- Start engine and bring up to operating temperature. Slowly remove the radiator cap on expansion tank. Using an antifreeze hydrometer, check the antifreeze for proper protection (add antifreeze to lower the freezing point of the antifreeze solution). If the antifreeze solution is dirty, more than 2 years old, or weak it should be completely drained and replaced with the proper mixture of permanent antifreeze and water.

- Close the sea cock, remove the raw water pick up hose from the raw water pump. Attach a 4-foot section of hose to the raw water pump and immerse one end into a 5 gal. bucket of antifreeze solution. Start engine and run till antifreeze solution comes out exhaust stack or until bucket is empty. Attach the raw water pick up hose to the raw water pump. Tighten all clamps.

- Loosen water pump and alternator belts to lessen tension on belts during winter.

- For engines equipped with a hand crank - pull compression release levers and turn engine slowly with the hand crank. Slowly pour about 2 ounces of engine oil into the intake pipe or manifold while hand cranking the engine. This will allow for a thin coat of oil on the valves and upper cylinder. DO NOT USE the starter to turn engine or serious engine damage may result.

- Tape the opening of the intake and exhaust manifolds with duck tape to help prevent corrosion of the upper cylinder during lay up.

- Scrape all rust or corrosion from exposed metal parts and surfaces. Scrub all metal surfaces with detergent and rise thoroughly. Paint any bare metal.
Place a dust cover over engine. Do not leave the engine exposed to rain and sea breeze.

- Disconnect the battery cables, remove the battery from the boat. Clean the terminal ends and battery with a solution of baking soda and water, rinse thoroughly with clean water. Apply a light coat of grease on the terminal end of the battery and cables. Store the battery in a cool dry place. Use a trickle charger to keep battery charged. Do not charge battery near any open flame or in a confined area.

There are several books about winterizing that may help you. Chapman Piloting has good instructions on winterizing your boat. The Boat Repair manual by George Buchanan , Upgrading The Cruising Sailboat by Daniel Spurr, Illustrated by Bruce Bingham has some good ideas on winterizing your boat. These are just a few winterizing things that must be done. I would suggest getting the books I listed above, they will help you winterize your boat. Also, sometimes you can get good information from the other boat owners who are docking in your area.

Boat Charters

Charter boats are an excellent way to get away from it all whilst on holiday. Whether you decide on a bareboat charter boat, where you don’t have a crew to assist, or a crewed boat, there are many benefits of choosing a charter boat holiday.

A crewed boat is the better option if you are inexperienced, as it will allow you to enjoy the freedom of the seas without the worries of navigation and changes in the weather. Many of the crewed boats also supply a chef so you won’t even have to worry about your meals.

There are many destinations throughout the world where you can charter a boat. What could be more romantic than a holiday on the seas of the Caribbean or the Mediterranean?

The are various types of charter boats, from floating hotels to the more budget boats where you are getting just the bare necessities.

For long durations on the seas it is essential to get a boat that has all the facilities to maintain a comfortable lifestyle for extended periods.

You would need a good kitchen with enough storage for all your food and cooking requirements.

This is where is might be wise to select a boat charter that has been organised by recommended charter business that knows what will be required on the holiday and preferably supply an experienced crew.

It is especially important to get an experienced crew if you are boating in unfamiliar waters.

Any decision for a charter boat holiday needs careful planning to ensure that it will be a holiday that will be remembered for a lifetime.

A well-planned holiday will ensure you will be sailing on smooth seas whether the weather gets rough or not.

The location that you decide to take your vacation will also have a bearing on the type of boat you charter, as there are both motorised and non-motorised (sailboats) to choose from.

Boat Loans

Do you dream to drive a boat of your own exploring the vast sea? If yes, then you can choose a powered speed boat to a narrow boat from a house boat to a smaller cruiser, whichever boat you wish to own. But, do you have the money to buy it. If yes, then everything seems to be at the right place. But, if it is the other way round then you are in a big trouble. How will you buy your dream boat? You need not panic; boat loans are here to help you realize your dream to own a boat.

For some a boat is a passion and for others a luxury item. Boat loans are specifically designed to cater the need of UK residents who wish to buy a boat. Boat loan makes the idea of owning the boat look much easier and affordable. It is very similar to a car loan.

Boat loan can be approved quickly and easily. Boat loans are available for any amount ranging from £10, 000 to £10,000,000 taking into consideration the repayment capacity, value of the collateral and credit history of the borrower.

Boat loans are of two types – secured and an unsecured boat loan. A secured boat loan is secured against collateral a home or the boat itself. This loan is available at a low interest rate with flexible repayment options. Unsecured boat loan is not secured against any collateral. Though, it is offered at high rate of interest but the borrower is on the safer side as his property or boat is not at risk. Tenants can also apply for this loan.

One should also give utmost care to the rate of interest on the loan. Annual Percentage Rate or APR is another name for the interest rate. APR of a boat loan ranges from 7.9% to 16%. A little search on your side can help you find boat loan at cheaper rates.

A borrower needs to decide the type of loan that will work best for you. There are fixed as well as adjustable rate loan. Fixed rate loan involve fixed monthly payment by the borrower. The rate of interest is decided in the beginning of the loan, which continues till the end of the loan term. This type of loan is best suited for people with fixed and regular income.

Adjustable rate loan implies that the rate of interest varies with the market rate of interest. It is suitable for people whose monthly income is not fixed such as business entrepreneurs.

Identify the fees associated with the boat loan. It involves various kinds of loans such as processing, underwriting fees, appraisal fees, the cost of a credit report, commitment, wire transfer fee, dockage fee and many others.

There were limited boat loan providers in the past. Internet has revolutionized the whole finance market with the entry of online lenders. It has become very convenient for a borrower to apply for a loan saving his time and efforts. One can access infinite number of online lenders at the same time through the internet. It is easy to apply for a loan online. Few clicks on the website, filling the online application form and you are through with the loan process. The application is easy and the privacy is ensured. But, don’t relax. Just a simple effort from your side can help in saving hard earned money. Collect loan quotes from various lenders and compare them. This will ensure that you get best boat loan deal.

You may dream to sail around the world. Boat loans can work as an important source to realize your dream. Before signing the loan contract make sure you compare all aspects of the boat loan and not just the interest rate.