Boat Maintenance: 3 Ways To Save Money on Maintenance Costs

You know that taking care of routine boat maintenance is essential if you want to keep your craft water-worthy. But do you know how much routine maintenance will cost each year?

The average boat owner spends almost 10% of their boat’s purchase price on maintenance. Luckily, you’re not the average owner. You’re smart, savvy, and willing to put in the work if it means you can keep your boat in good condition without breaking the bank.

Here are a few easy ways to lower your boat maintenance costs so you can reinvest your hard-earned cash into boat accessories that make your time on the water more fun!

1. Handle Basic Boat Maintenance on Your Own

You don’t have to outsource all of your boat maintenance to an experienced professional. Instead, you can and should do some of the basic tasks on your own.

Things like cleaning the boat’s exterior and interior, waxing fiberglass, checking fluid levels, and prepping the craft for storage are simple enough for most owners to do on their own.

The more maintenance tasks you can handle yourself, the more money you’ll stand to save over the course of the year.

2. Give Your Engine Regular Tune-Ups

One of the biggest sources of high-cost repairs to modern boats is the engine. And what causes those high-cost repairs? A lack of preventative maintenance.

The best thing you can do is give your engine regular inspections and tune-ups.

Follow your manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule. Inspect the fluid levels before each outing and add fluids as needed to keep the engine running well. Replace any belts or components as soon as they show signs of wear.

If you’re comfortable doing these things yourself, great. If not, let an experienced mechanic handle the tune-ups and repairs for you. You’ll still save money by reducing your risk of unexpected breakdowns and more expensive repairs down the line.

3. Shop Around for Tools and Equipment

The cost of tools and boating equipment can vary widely from retailer to retailer. If you simply buy your tools from your local marina or watercraft supply store, you may end up paying more than you should.

The best thing you can do is to start comparing prices online. When you’re ready to shop for boat props, cleaning equipment, replacement belts, batteries, and other tools, make a list of the items you need and tailor your search to those items.

Compare the prices for each item, shipping costs, and customer reviews in detail. Choose the retailer that offers you the highest quality customer service with the most affordable pricing. This way, you’ll work with a supplier that you can trust every time you place an order.

Lowering Your Boat Maintenance Costs Is Possible

Boating doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. As long as you follow these money-saving boat maintenance tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water without worrying about your wallet.

Looking for more ways to save so you can treat the people you love to fun and relaxation? Check out our latest tips to help you boost your savings each month.