How to maintain your boating equipment
Sailing offers an unrivalled experience of relaxation and pleasure.
Whether you're an avid fisherman, scuba diver, water sports enthusiast or simply a lover of the sea, meticulous maintenance of your nautical equipment is essential for your safety and the longevity of your possessions.
In this article, we'll explore practical tips for taking care of your fishing, diving, watersports and marine accessories equipment.
Maintenance of fishing equipment
Fishing rods
Fishing rods are one of the most important items in your fishing arsenal. After each use, be sure to clean them thoroughly in fresh water to remove salt and fish residue. Reels should also be carefully inspected for corrosion, which can be caused by seawater. Periodic application of a lubricant suitable for reels will help maintain their efficiency.
Baits and lures
To preserve the freshness of your baits and the durability of your lures, proper storage is essential. Use waterproof containers to prevent moisture and seawater from damaging your baits. Lures should be rinsed after each use and dried carefully to prevent hook corrosion.
Maintenance of diving equipment
Diving suits
Diving suits require meticulous maintenance to ensure their longevity. After each dive, rinse your wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt and marine residues. Avoid the use of chemicals or detergents.
Suspend it in shade to dry naturally. Examine seams regularly for tears, and repair immediately with suitable materials to prevent further wear.
Oxygen regulators and cylinders
Regular maintenance of regulators is essential to ensure reliable operation during your dives. After each use, rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and deposits.
Oxygen cylinders must also be inspected periodically to check their condition and guarantee your safety while diving. When inspecting cylinders, be sure to:
-
Visually inspect the cylinder for cracks, dents or signs of corrosion.
-
Check date of last inspection and bottle expiration date. Oxygen cylinders must be inspected regularly by a qualified professional and requalified in accordance with current regulations.
-
Make sure the cylinder valve is working properly, with no leaks or malfunctions.
-
Please store the bottle in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Maintenance of water sports equipment
Towed buoys
If you're an enthusiast of water sports like towed buoys, it's essential to take good care of your equipment. After each use, rinse the buoy thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and marine residues. You can use a mild cleaner specially designed for marine equipment if necessary, but avoid harsh chemicals which could damage the buoy material.
Focus particularly on metal fasteners, as they are susceptible to corrosion. To prevent corrosion, you can apply a thin coat of marine grease or specific lubricant to metal parts after rinsing and drying the buoy. Be sure to wipe off any excess grease to prevent dirt build-up.
After rinsing, carefully dry the buoy to prevent mold or mildew from forming inside.
In addition to rinsing and treating metal fasteners, regularly check seams and valves to ensure they are in good working order.
Water skiing and Wakeboarding
Before each outing, thoroughly inspect the fixingsto ensure they are tight and in good condition. Also make sure the bindings are correctly adjusted to your height to ensure a comfortable gliding experience.
To prevent corrosion and facilitate movement, we recommend regularly applying a specific lubricant to spreaders, fasteners and metal parts.
When it comes to maintaining boards and water skis, farting and waxing are essential. Apply a layer of wax adapted to water temperature to the sole of your board or water skis to improve glide. Use wax to protect the board or ski cover from salt water and sun after every outing.
In addition, rinse the board or skis thoroughly in fresh water to remove salt and marine residue, then store them out of the sun to prevent fading of the coating.
Maintenance of nautical accessories
Life jackets
Lifejackets should generally not be machine-washed, as this can damage the buoyancy material. Instead, wipe them down regularly with a wet cloth to remove dirt and salt. If the vest is very dirty, use a soft brush and soapy water to clean it, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Make sure it is completely dry before storing.
Anchors and mooring lines
Maintenance of anchors and mooring lines mainly consists of rinse carefully with fresh water after each use to remove salt and residues. Store them in a dry place to avoid corrosion.
Navigation equipment
Similarly, maintenance of navigation equipment involves keeping it clean and moisture-free. Wipe compasses and charts regularly to keep them in good condition.
Lighting and signalling
Navigation lights and signalling devices must be kept in a dry and cool place. Replace defective batteries or bulbs as soon as they show signs of weakness.
Communication equipment
If you have specific at-sea communication equipment on your boat, be sure to store it in a dry place and follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance.
Conclusion
Taking care of your nautical equipment is essential to guaranteeing your safety at sea and prolonging its lifespan. Whether you're a fisherman, diver, water sports enthusiast or simply a lover of the sea, these practical tips will help you make the most of your experience, using your equipment with complete peace of mind. Regular maintenance means carefree days at sea and equipment that lasts longer.
ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT BOATING AND RIB BOATS?
Discover our products!
Read more about the world of RIBs: