You have the boat, you have planned the long lazy weekend with friends on the bay and the weather is looking spot on. It's been a while since you had it serviced but you hardly use it so why spend the extra money when it ran so well last time? - It is so easy to get stuck in this very mindset when you have already spent so much on the boat, the safety gear and the full esky but getting stuck in the middle of the bay because of something that could have been prevented is no fun for anyone!
Most importantly, everyone here at Bate Bay wants to keep you, your friends and family safe while you're out on the water. But there are a few other reasons to keep on top of your servicing as well.
Looking to sell? Boats with a full service history tells a buyer a lot about the boat. A well looked after engine generally means a well looked after boat with no surprises waiting for you. Without any service history, you can assume that there will be some larger maintenance around the corner. It will also help to maintain the value of the boat- something which can drastically change with the condition of your engine.
Regular serving keeps your engine operating to it's best ability. Maintaining peak performance when you have invested time and money into your boat is what it's all about. There is no point going out if your only getting 60-70% efficiency out of it. Take the time to get it serviced and enjoy your watercraft.
When you are out there in the bay, on the ocean or up river somewhere, you are relying on that watercraft to return you and your guest safely back to the car/wharf/ mooring. Ensuring your engine has been looked after will give your peace of mind on the water.
If you have any questions about your engine/boat or what is included in your annual service, please email on tyrellduff@hotmail.com or call Tyrell 0403 954 538.
Don't get caught out putting the boat in this weekend- Check the tides at Bate Bay Cronulla here.
With less than a month left of winter, the October long weekend is in sight. It's time to think about how to get ready for some Spring/Summer cruising. Getting ready for summer doesn't take too much effort and it might save you money and a trip to the Workshop.
Chances are a lot of boats are out in the elements over winter and even with a cover, they can fall victim to moisture and the elements. Wind, Dust and water will get under those covers and into any cracks and wreak havoc on motors, soft furnishings and electronics. It's a good idea to give your boat a thorough clean both externally and internally. Getting cracks, rust and obvious damage from the weather fixed early could save you big $$$. Wipe over your surfaces inside and ensure you air your boat out and keep it dry.
Take the time to check your batteries! Keeping your marine batteries on a trickle charger over winter can prevent batteries from becoming sulphated and this will help prolong the life of your battery. Before heading out on the water ensure you battery has a full charge and old batteries have been replaced. Getting stuck on the water with a flat battery and the family on board is not ideal and is easily avoidable.
Lights, radios and electronics can blow globes, switches and fuses. Make sure they all work and organise a quick fix if needed.
You can't be on the water without your safety gear and it's not worth taking the risk. Flares, EPIRB's and fire extinguishers can expire but are a legal requirement when on the water. Life jackets, anchors etc all need to be kept in good condition and are worth checking over before the season begins.
These are all logical, easy processes but can make a big difference before heading out. We are here to help in any way and can replace items (safety equipment, batteries etc) and complete you repairs with little fuss.
Enjoy your boats and your time on the water with friends and family.
Tyrell and the team at Bate Bay
Roads and Maritime Services
The Roads and Maritime Services have put together a guide to lifejacket and safety equipment rules on NSW waters. Have a look and make sure you're ready for your time on the water.
What is it? Antifouling is the process of protecting your hull from marine growth by applying a protective paint layer to the bottom of your boat. Marine growth, when stuck to the underside of your boat can do damage to both the hull and the performance of your boat. The marine deposits increase the roughness of the hull, causing a breaking effect on the boats movements instead of your boat smoothly slipping through the water.
Wikipedia sums up the damage that can occur from biological growth in the below statement.
“Specifically, the buildup of biofouling on marine vessels poses a significant problem. In some instances, the hull structure and propulsion systems can be damaged.[3] The accumulation of biofoulers on hulls can increase both the hydrodynamic volume of a vessel and the hydrodynamic friction, leading to increased drag of up to 60%.[4] The drag increase has been seen to decrease speeds by up to 10%, which can require up to a 40% increase in fuel to compensate”
Tyrell specialises in this process on boats under 20ft and uses quality antifouling products to get the job done. The best time to get your antifouling down is in dryer weather (something we have no problem with here in Australia) and above 12 degrees to help the multiple coats dry. Spring is perfect and its always good to go into the boating season protected from the elements and marine growth particularly if your boat is sitting in water.
Head over to the gallery page to see some of the Antifouling work Tyrell has completed.
Please contact Tyrell if you would like a quote or to chat about the process.
Sutherland Shire Boat Ramps There are many hidden gems along our water ways and we don't want you missing any of them!
Why not mix it up this weekend and check out a different section of our water ways. Below is a list of boat ramps in the Sutherland Shire.