Keeping your boat in top shape isn’t just about looking flash on the water—it’s about safety, performance, and making sure she lasts for years. Whether you’re cruising the coast or throwing a line in, here’s a no-nonsense, seasonal boat maintenance guide to keep your vessel in tip-top.

Autumn

If you’re not a year-round boater, now’s the time to start winding down. Flush out the engine, check the trailer bearings, and get rid of any old fuel. A solid clean now will save you from dealing with a mess next season.

For those working on the farms, autumn means extra prep. Salt and grime build up fast when you’re out there every day, so give your deck and equipment a proper scrub to stop things getting slippery. Check pumps, hoses, and winches for wear and tear—breakdowns mid-shift aren’t fun. And if your boat’s running lights are flickering, sort them now before the colder winter mornings roll in.

Winter

Winter means rougher conditions. Make sure your wet weather gear is up to scratch—there’s nothing worse than being soaked to the bone at 5 AM. Double-check bilge pumps, and keep a stash of dry rags onboard to clear fogged-up windows. Slippery decks are a hazard, so chuck some non-slip mats down where needed.

If you’re off the water – now is the time to do your big repairs and upgrade? We stock big and small upgrades at a competitive price.

Spring

Summer’s around the corner, so it’s time to wake the boat up from its nap. Check it all, it’s still not warm enough to be stuck out in the water.

Hull Inspection & Cleaning: Check for any cracks, blisters, or damage from storage. A solid scrub with a marine boat cleaner will get rid of grime and algae buildup. If she’s looking dull, a boat polish and wax will have her shining like new.

Engine & Fuel System: Swap out any old fuel, check for leaks in the fuel lines, and replace your fuel filter if needed. Give the engine a proper once-over and top up with marine-grade engine oil.

Battery & Electrical Gear: Test your battery—if it’s sluggish, it might be time for a new one. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and check your wiring, lights, and electronics like your GPS and depth finder.

Safety Gear Check: The most important – life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers—make sure they’re in good nick and not expired. Replace anything dodgy with Australian Standard-approved marine safety gear – available from us at the best prices.

Fishing & Work Boats: If you’re working on fish farms, test your bilge pumps, check deck drains, and make sure your ropes and mooring lines are strong and secure.

Summer

This is when your boat cops the most action, so keep an eye on your safety gear—life jackets, flares, and first aid kits need to be up to scratch, spares are a must – you don’t want to be watching from the shore. Saltwater’s a killer, so rinse your boat after every trip and grease up moving parts to avoid corrosion. Oh, and don’t forget to check your anchor line—losing your anchor is embarrassing and expensive.

Regular boat maintenance is the key to keeping your vessel safe, reliable, and ready for action. By following this seasonal boat maintenance checklist, you’ll prevent costly repairs, extend the life of your engine, and ensure your safety equipment is up to standard.

Whether you’re prepping for adventures or maintaining your workboat, using the right marine supplies—will keep your boat performing at its best. Stay on top of your maintenance, and you’ll be set.

Need top-quality marine products? Search our massive range of boat accessories, safety gear, and maintenance supplies today!