Tel: +1 (203) 494-9294
Tel: +1 (203) 494-9294
It’s time to sit back, relax, and do a bit of reading. Wouldn’t you enjoy doing that on a pristinely kept vessel?
Boat detailing is the process of exalting a boat to its highest potential. This involves cleaning and restoring a boat to its original factory condition, and adding specialized marine products to shine, protect, and enhance mechanical performance.
Boat detailing is important for three key reasons. Firstly, it maintains the overall aesthetic of the boat, keeping it new and well-maintained. Secondly, it greatly extends the resiliency and life of the boat by preventing damage caused by dirt, grime, and UV rays. Lastly, it increases the resale value of the boat when it is time to upgrade.
Regular cleaning and detailing helps to maintain the appearance, value, longevity, and overall performance of your boat.
The time required for boat cleaning and detailing varies depends on the size and condition of the boat and the scope of the project, and can range from several hours to several days. For example, a Top Side Wash and Wax can take as little as 3 hours on a 30-foot vessel, while an ULTRA Detail with Add-Ons and Extras may take up to a week on a 75-foot vessel.
Please refer to our Plans and Pricing section on the Home Page for information about our service tiers.
While it is possible to clean and detail your own boat, hiring a professional ensures a thorough and effective service, and can save you a lot of time and effort.
We show up to work on your boat at a time that is befitting to our schedule, typically within 5-7 company business days of receiving your signed contract. There are times we can offer next-day service, and we accept exact date requests, but it cannot always be guaranteed.
We collect your basic contact information and other personal information in our contract.
Yes, we use contracts for our private customers. If your boat service is being orchestrated and billed through a management company, custodial agency, or service department with which we have a pre-existing arrangement, you may not have to sign a contract.
In our contract, you, the customer, grant us access to your boat by informing us of all the necessary access information pertinent to accessing your boat including lockbox codes, private community access lists and required documentation, and any other security features you have installed on your boat, so that we can prepare our trip to work on your boat well in advance of arrival.
You will receive a reply email within 24 hours with a request to schedule our 5-minute phone consultation to discuss the status of your boat, at the end of which you will be provided with 2 options for service and a price range. If you choose to purchase one of the offers, a contract will be furnished and sent to your inbox for you to e-sign and return. You will also fill in your boat location and access information and personal details on the contract. After receiving your signed contract, we will coordinate with the appropriate management personnel to arrange the service work, and notify you of when the work is scheduled to be done. Please note that the Company does not cover haul-out and launch fees, and retains the right to bill for any service fees required by the custodial agency responsible for your vessel.
You will receive an invoice in your email inbox upon completion of the service.
We accept check, Zelle® bank transfer, and cash as forms of payment.
Payment is due at the time of completion. If your work is being billed through a source that we have a partnership with, your account is considered current if payment is completed within 30 days.
All discounts are applied at the time of signing the contract. We also offer discounts on prepaid 3, 6, 9, and 12 month contracts.
Your boat must be waxed at least once per year in order to prevent the inevitable deterioration of the gel coat from UV rays and mineral corrosion.
The minimum amount of service frequency recommended depends on the frequency of use and the conditions in which the boat is stored. In general, it’s recommended to have your boat professionally detailed at least once a year to prevent damage and maintain its appearance. However, if you frequently use your boat or store it in harsh conditions, more frequent detailing may be necessary. It’s important to consult with a professional detailing service to determine the best maintenance schedule for your specific boat.
If you haven’t been keeping up with your boat detailing, your boat may be at risk for damage and wear and tear. Dirt, grime, and other contaminants can accumulate on the boat’s exterior, which can cause discoloration and corrosion over time. The upholstery and other interior surfaces can also become damaged due to exposure to the sun, saltwater, and other environmental factors. Failing to maintain your boat can result in costly repairs and a decrease in the boat’s resale price.
It’s never too late to start maintaining your boat. Even if you haven’t been keeping up with regular maintenance, you can still start now to prevent further damage and extend the life of your boat. Depending on the current condition of your boat, you may need to invest in more extensive detailing services to get it back to its original condition. However, regular maintenance going forward can help prevent the need for costly repairs in the future.
Yes, consistent boat cleaning will ensure that parts of the boat that do not normally get attention will be addressed. Caring for every single square inch of the boat also serves another valuable purpose – it is an incredibly efficient way of checking for damage and spotting issues before they become severe.
You can find a reputable boat cleaning and detailing service by checking online reviews, asking for recommendations, and verifying their credentials and insurance.
Red flags to watch out for when hiring a boat cleaning and detailing service include low pricing, lack of references or reviews, and unprofessional behavior. Companies that use dirty, worn out tools are also a huge red flag.
Common areas that boat cleaning and detailing services may neglect to clean or address include the hard top, ceiling, compartments, fish boxes, cuddy cabin, battery box, refrigerators, bilges, and engine compartment.
Yes, an inexperienced detailing crew can cause damage to your boat, such as swirl marks, scratches, holograms, stains, or discoloration. All of these problems are easily mitigated by using proper cleaning processes and products.
Companies that do not have strict policies with their cleaning processes are common, and sometimes they leave it up to their employees to make decisions on what chemicals to use. This can instantly undo thousands of dollars worth of investment in surface protection. It is important to ask enough questions to ensure that the work will be done properly – this goes for any boat repair service.
Maintaining a clean and well-maintained boat can enhance your lifestyle by providing a comfortable and luxurious space for relaxation and entertainment.
In addition to being a symbol and physical manifestation of your accomplishments, your boat is your private island on the water. A clean and well-maintained boat can help you feel more elite and give you a space to sit back and see life from a different perspective for a while. We understand that you work hard, which is why we provide the service that we do; so that you can be happy and satisfied every time you arrive on your boat and feel the exclusive effect of being in a perfectly kept space.
Keeping your boat clean and well-maintained can improve air quality, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
A dirty or poorly maintained boat can expose you to harmful pollutants, increase stress, and decrease the overall enjoyment of your boating experience. Additionally, dirty boats attract bugs. Bugs do not like clean boats.
Put simply, gelcoat is a type of paint, in that it is the outer surface layer of an object that is capable of transmitting a color. However, whereas paint is a thin coating layer, gelcoat is a clear, very thick epoxy-based resin layer that is mixed with a color and applied either directly to the boat’s framing material, such as wood or aluminum, or applied to the boat’s composite layer, which acts as an intermittent layer between the boat’s framing and the exterior, most often seen on wood/fiberglass boats. It is a tacky substance when it is mixed, and eventually cures to a hard, glossy surface layer with a fairly low coefficient of friction. Higher quality gelcoats have increased levels of resistance to UV radiation and gradual mineral corrosion. Gelcoats can be produced to come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, including sparkles and marble effects.
The key is to avoid doing things twice. Use a high-efficiency loadout, bring all of the equipment and products you will need, configure your water and electrical sources, and use slip-on waterproof deck boots. Keep slip-on land shoes dry and close by. Make sure that your gear bags and equipment stay as dry as possible, and concentrate on one step at a time, one section at a time – especially on larger boats. It’s important to use multiple water sources and be able to use a brush very quickly, especially when working in direct sunlight and high temperatures unless you as this can cause the soap to dry too quickly, leaving streaks and marks. When compounding and waxing, be wary of excessive speeds and high-friction compounds and surface residue that can work itself into and burn the gelcoat.
Bleach products should generally be avoided on boats, as they can damage the finish and materials. Bleach is highly corrosive and can strip away protective coatings. Rarely, it is necessary to use highly basic marine cleaning products. These can be used safely in highly concentrated areas, but it is important to fully neutralize the affected surfaces with a citrus soap before rinsing thoroughly with water.
It is recommended to use specific cleaning products designed for electronics and electrical systems to prevent damage to these sensitive components.
Chemicals should be sealed and stored upright in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, away from heat sources and flames. Keep them out of reach of children and pets. They should be tied down or fill the space completely to prevent toppling.
To keep your boat smelling fresh, use odor eliminators and ventilation systems. Scent diffusers and long-lasting fragrances are a great option for keeping your boat smelling fresh!
Dish soap is not recommended for cleaning boats as it can strip the protective finishes and damage the materials. However, it is used to great effect when stripping old coatings and preparing surfaces for new protection.
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your boat’s hull include using abrasive or acidic cleaners, using the wrong type of brush, and neglecting to rinse off the cleaning products properly.
A specialized prop and outdrive cleaner can be used to remove dirt and grime from these areas. Divers can also accomplish a great deal, but serious boat repair work should always be conducted on land.
Rust stains can be removed using specialized rust removers. It is crucially important to completely remove the rust remover gel, as it will stick to the surface like grease and burn the gelcoat the next time it is waxed with a polishing machine. It is also important to inspect rust spots with a microscope and use an extremely fine-bristle brush to completely remove any metal shavings or particles, otherwise more rust will appear as the metal oxidizes.
Marine growth can be prevented by treating your boat’s hull with antifouling coatings. You should always make the effort to inspect your boat’s hull after it has been painted to ensure proper layering and coverage. Bottom painting is difficult, tedious, and painful, and steps and sections are often skipped as a result.
Mold and mildew can be prevented by using specialized mold and mildew inhibitors, proper ventilation, and cleaning regularly.
Boat soap is formulated to be gentle on your boat’s finish and not strip away any protective coatings, while regular soap may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
Polish – pure polish is an extremely mild abrasive that is used to remove imperfections in paint and restore shine. It is sometimes used in conjunction with compounds on gelcoat finishes, and is used exclusively on paint-only finishes. It has no protective qualities.
Compound – compounds are mild- to heavy- abrasives that are designed to cut through surface oxidation and smooth out the outermost layer, erasing small scratches along the way. Compounds come in many different forms and combinations, ranging from low-viscosity heavy-cut liquids to high-viscosity glue-like substances. Each one has a unique polishing system that can be used to achieve optimal results. They also do not carry any protective attributes.
Wax – pure wax is used to protect paint, gelcoat, and other surfaces from the elements and provide a protective barrier. Wax provides a protective layer and enhances shine, and sometimes contain polish and rubbing compounds that simultaneously clean and de-oxidize the surface.
Choosing the right cleaning and detailing products for your boat depends on its specific materials and surfaces. Consult with a professional or manufacturer recommendations.
Canvas or sailcloth materials may require a specialized cleaner and protective coating to prevent damage from UV rays and moisture. There are also products available that greatly increase the waterproof capabilities of canvas and other fabrics.
Boat polishing pads vary in their material, density, and level of abrasiveness. The best one for your boat depends on the type of finish, the level of oxidation, and the type of polishing, compound, or wax product being used. Foam pads are available in a variety of densities and polishing efficacies, and are most effective for medium, fine, and ultra-fine polishing finishes, whereas wool pads and synthetic wool pads are better suited for heavy oxidation removal and intermediate polishing. Dense foam pads are also used for such purposes, but are consumed gradually by friction. Wool pads last much longer, but leave holograms and swirl marks on the surface when they are not properly maintained or used incorrectly. Consult with a professional or the manufacturer for recommendations.
Rotary buffers spin buffing pads in a circular motion, and are typically more powerful, while dual action buffers use an orbital motion to move the pad back and forth, and are usually less aggressive. Rotary buffers are typically more suitable for high-intensity work such as oxidation removal that requires hours of movement, whereas dual action polishers are better suited for polishing, removing swirl marks, paint correction, and waxing.
Look for equipment that is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and comfortable to hold. Adjustable handles and ergonomic designs can help reduce strain and fatigue.
There are several types of vacuums that can be used for boat cleaning, including handheld, cordless, and shop vacuums. It’s important to select a vacuum that is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and has strong suction power. Look for vacuums that have crevice tools and upholstery attachments to make cleaning hard-to-reach areas easier.
When it comes to pressure washers, it’s important to select one with adjustable pressure settings to avoid damaging your boat’s finish. Look for pressure washers with a PSI range of 1500 to 2500, and choose one with a high-quality spray nozzle that can be adjusted to provide different spray patterns.
When choosing equipment for boat cleaning, look for tools and equipment that are specifically designed for use on boats and marine surfaces. Choose equipment that is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and has adjustable settings to avoid damaging your boat’s finish.
Cleaning equipment such as polishing pads and brushes should be replaced when they become worn or damaged. It is important to note that cleaning equipment should also be cleaned and properly maintained in order to achieve optimal results and avoid inadvertently creating damage.
Ceramic coating is a protective coating that is made from nanoparticles of silica dioxide or titanium dioxide, which create a hydrophobic layer that repels water and other liquids.
The benefits of using ceramic coating on your boat include increased durability, protection against UV rays and saltwater corrosion, and easier maintenance due to its hydrophobic properties.
Ceramic coating typically lasts between 2-5 years, depending on factors such as climate, usage, and maintenance. It is generally considered worth the investment due to its long-lasting protective properties.
While it is possible to apply ceramic coating yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure proper application and maximum effectiveness.
Ceramic coating provides longer-lasting protection than traditional waxing or polishing and requires less maintenance.
Ceramic coating creates a protective layer on top of the boat’s surface, while paint protection film is a clear film that is applied directly to the boat’s paint or gel coat.
The frequency of reapplication depends on factors such as climate, usage, and maintenance. It is generally recommended to reapply ceramic coating every 2-5 years.
Ceramic coating can be applied to most surfaces, including non-skid surfaces, although specialized coatings are necessary for some surfaces such as vinyl, stainless steel, and glass.
Ceramic coating typically does not change the appearance of the boat, although it can enhance the shine and depth of the color.
To maintain a boat after applying ceramic coating, regular washing with a gentle soap and water is recommended. Avoid using abrasive cleaning products that can damage the coating.
Ceramic coating can be removed if desired, although the process can be time-consuming and may require professional assistance.
Teak is a dense hardwood that is highly resistant to water, making it ideal for boat decking.
Teak wood should be cleaned regularly and treated with specialized teak oils to prevent discoloration and damage.
To maintain teak decking, you should have it oiled several times a year by a professional. If you prefer the patina look, you can instead clean it with a teak cleaner and brightener once per year. Keep in mind that the sun will patina the wood again as the wood dries out.
Using a teak oil or sealer protects the wood from sun damage, water absorption, algae growths, stains, and fading, all while giving it a rich golden sheen.
There is no difference, they are interchangeable marketing terms. The only variation among teak oils is the type and concentration of natural oils vs. additives.
You should never use varnish on your teak decking, gunwales, ornaments, or any other teak surfaces on your boat. Teak is simply not suited for varnish, unlike mahogany, which is well suited for varnish, and not oil. This is because teak is a dense, porous, oil based hardwood, whereas mahogany is an extremely dense, impervious, resin-based hardwood.
Teak oils and teak sealers are synonymous terms. They soak into the wood and draw out its natural color. Varnish is a clear, transparent, hard protective coating that is best suited for extremely dense hardwoods such as mahogany and oak, and does not permeate the wood beyond its surface layer. Orange wax, or citrus teak beeswax, is a protective and cosmetic coating that is best suited for indoor teak furniture, giving it a less glossy, more specular finish.
The best way to apply teak sealer is with a soft-bristled brush or a sponge. Apply the sealer in thin, even coats and allow it to dry completely before applying additional coats.
If we understand “refinish” to mean “sand” – you should aim to never refinish your teak decking. Inexperienced and cheap detailing companies recommend this service because they believe that it is the proper technique to preserve and maintain teak decking. In reality, sanding is almost always completely unnecessary and is much inferior to the chemical and physical processes that can restore teak in the same amount of time or faster. Additionally, it causes all kinds of wear and deep scratching on the lowest gelcoat sections in the cockpit and walk-around of your boat that cannot be polished out.
To ensure a teak care company is reputable, look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers. You can also ask for references and check with industry organizations for their certification. Consult with your local teak expert and ask them about the processes the teak care company is proposing
Red flags to look out for when hiring a teak care company include high-pressure sales tactics, promises of a quick and easy fix, and lack of transparency about their process and products.
To extend the lifespan of teak decking, it’s important to keep it clean and protected from the sun and moisture. Regular maintenance and the use of a teak sealer can help to achieve this.
If you spill something on your teak decking, it’s important to clean it up immediately to prevent staining. Use a soft cloth and a teak cleaner to remove any residue. If the teak is oiled, do not use a degreaser; use a non-oil based cleaner. Otherwise, all of the oil will have to be chemically removed and the entire deck recleaned and oiled in order to remove the blemish. If it is not oiled, you can use a teak spot cleaner, or dish detergent powder and water.
The frequency of oiling teak furniture depends on how often it is used and exposed to the elements. As a general rule, it’s recommended to oil teak furniture every 6-12 months to maintain its natural color and protect it from moisture.
Residue streaks all over your gelcoat.
