How can I reduce the effects of the sun on my boat’s hull?

At Bayside Boat Detailing, we talk to a lot of boat owners about how to keep their boats looking great all year long.

A common question we get involves the blazing sun here in Tampa Bay – and how to deal with it – and how to protect your boat.

Recently, a client of ours in St. Pete asked, “how can I reduce the effects of the sun on my boats hull? It’s a boat I use for fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. It's always sunny and my boat is stored outside when not on the water.”

Great question. While we generally work on helping our Tampa Bay clients with deep cleans and detailing, it’s nice knowing that they’re keeping up with basic maintenance.

While it’s pretty obvious to most boat owners, as Canvasman.com says in their article The Role of Boat Covers in Preventing Sun Damages, “UV rays can cause the colours on your boat's hull, deck, and upholstery to fade. What was once a vibrant and attractive vessel can rapidly lose its allure, making it look more established and worn.”

The intense sun in Tampa Bay can take a toll on your boat's hull, but there are several ways you can reduce its effects:

1. Use a UV protective coating: Consider applying a UV protective coating or marine wax to the hull of your boat. This helps to shield the surface from the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays.
2. Keep it covered: When your boat is not in use, keep it covered with a boat cover or store it in a covered area such as a boat lift, garage, or storage facility. This provides an additional layer of protection from the sun's rays.
3. Regular maintenance: Keep up with regular maintenance tasks such as washing, waxing, and polishing your boat. This not only helps to keep it looking great but also provides added protection against sun damage. Regular maintenance is where we come in to play!
4. Avoid prolonged exposure: Whenever possible, try to avoid leaving your boat exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. If you're not using it, consider mooring it in a shaded area or using a boat canopy to provide shade.
5. Use UV protective products: Invest in UV protective products specifically designed for marine use, such as UV-resistant boat covers, bimini tops, and upholstery.
6. Inspect for damage: Periodically inspect your boat's hull for signs of sun damage, such as fading, cracking, or blistering. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

By taking these precautions, you can help reduce the effects of the sun on your boat's hull and prolong its lifespan, keeping it in great condition for fishing adventures in the Gulf of Mexico.