Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Boat

Inspect hull for cracks, blisters, and gelcoat damageCheck keel bolts and keel attachmentInspect rudder and rudder bearingsCheck all through-hull fittings and seacocksInspect propeller for damage and foulingClean and apply fresh antifouling paint

Pro Tip

Take photos of your hull condition each spring. This creates a valuable record over the years and helps you spot developing issues early.

Clean and polish all gelcoat surfacesInspect and re-bed deck hardware if neededCheck all stanchions and lifelinesInspect hatches and portlights for leaksCheck non-skid surfaces for wearInspect and lubricate all hinges and latches

Change engine oil and oil filterReplace fuel filters (primary and secondary)Check coolant levels and conditionInspect belts for wear and proper tensionCheck raw water impeller — replace if older than 2 seasonsInspect exhaust system for leaksTest engine start and run at dock

Important

Always run the engine with water supply connected. Running a marine engine without cooling water, even briefly, can cause severe damage to the impeller and engine.

Inspect all fuel lines for cracks or leaksCheck fuel tank ventsTest fuel shut-off valvesConsider adding fuel stabilizer if fuel is from last season

Check battery charge and condition (load test)Clean and tighten all battery terminalsInspect all wiring for chafe and corrosionTest all navigation lightsTest VHF radio and verify DSC registrationCheck bilge pump operation (manual and automatic)Test all instruments and electronics

Inspect life jackets — check for damage and proper inflationCheck fire extinguisher expiration datesInspect flares — replace if expiredCheck first aid kit and restock as neededTest EPIRB or PLB battery and registrationInspect life raft service dateCheck throwable flotation devices

Safety First

Never skip the safety equipment check. Expired flares, uninflatable life jackets, or dead EPIRB batteries can turn an emergency into a catastrophe.

Inspect all standing rigging for broken strandsCheck turnbuckle pins and cotter pinsInspect mast step and mast bootCheck all halyards and sheets for wearInspect sails for UV damage, tears, and chafeLubricate all winches and blocksCheck roller furling systems

Update charts and navigation softwareCheck anchor and rode conditionStock fresh provisions and cleaning suppliesReview insurance policy and registrationPlan a short shakedown cruise before any longer trips

Track It with ClearShip

Use ClearShip to create tasks for each maintenance item. Assign them to crew members, track progress with photos, and build a complete maintenance history for your boat.

Pro Tip

Take photos of your hull condition each spring. This creates a valuable record over the years and helps you spot developing issues early.

Important

Always run the engine with water supply connected. Running a marine engine without cooling water, even briefly, can cause severe damage to the impeller and engine.

Inspect all fuel lines for cracks or leaksCheck fuel tank ventsTest fuel shut-off valvesConsider adding fuel stabilizer if fuel is from last season

Safety First

Never skip the safety equipment check. Expired flares, uninflatable life jackets, or dead EPIRB batteries can turn an emergency into a catastrophe.

Track It with ClearShip

Use ClearShip to create tasks for each maintenance item. Assign them to crew members, track progress with photos, and build a complete maintenance history for your boat.

Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Boat

Hull and Exterior

Hull Inspection

Deck and Topsides

Engine and Mechanical Systems

Engine Checks

Fuel System

Electrical Systems

Safety Equipment

Sails and Rigging

Final Steps

Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Boat

Hull and Exterior

Hull Inspection

Deck and Topsides

Engine and Mechanical Systems

Engine Checks

Fuel System

Electrical Systems

Safety Equipment

Sails and Rigging

Final Steps