Things to look out for to keep your boat from sinking at the docks.

 

One of the worst things that could happen to a boat owner, is to have to deal with a foundering vessel. If you tend to leave your vessel moored most of the time, there are several things you should keep an eye out for that could cause your vessel to take on water!

First of all, if you feel the vessel no longer maintains your desire to continue using and maintaining it, maybe it’s time to dispose of it before things have gone this far. 

But if you just want to keep it afloat in the meantime, here are some things to keep an eye out for:

• Clogged Scuppers: Scuppers allow water on deck to drain away, but they can become clogged with debris like dirt and leaves. This is especially a problem for boats left docked year-round. To prevent this, ensure regular cleaning and perform seasonal maintenance to keep these pathways clear.
   
• Hose Issues: Boats can take on water due to problems with raw-water hoses, such as ruptures or disconnections, particularly if the issue is below the water line. It's crucial to regularly check these hoses and ensure they are secure. If a hose comes off or bursts while the engine is running, it can quickly fill the boat with water
   
• Seacock Maintenance: Seacocks control water entering and exiting the boat. They can fail if not maintained properly. Label each seacock to identify its function, use high-quality clamps to secure hoses, and have wooden plugs on hand to quickly stop leaks should a seacock or hose fail.
   
• Bilge Pump Failure: The bilge pump removes water from the boat's hull, but it can fail if it becomes clogged with grit or grime. Regular inspection and maintenance of the bilge pump and its float switch are necessary to ensure they operate correctly, especially for boats that remain in the water throughout the year.
   
• Leaks at Thru-Hulls and Outdrive Boots: These are common leak points that can lead to sinking at the dock. Regular inspections for leaks, proper sealing, and immediate repairs when issues are detected can prevent water from entering the boat through these vulnerable areas.

Keeping an eye out for these conditions as well as keeping a regular maintenance schedule should keep your vessel afloat and greatly reduce the chance of it taking on water to the point of foundering.

 

If your boat is already foundering or semi submerged, give us a call.

US Boat Removal, is a professional boat removal company specializing in just this kind of very specialized task. We help individuals and businesses alike with the removal of submerged boats and abandoned vessels from waterways, marinas, and docks. Why call us?

• Specialized Equipment and Expertise:

  • US Boat Removal has the specialized equipment and expertise required to safely and efficiently remove submerged boats. This includes the use of cranes, lift bags, divers, and other tools necessary for underwater salvage operations.

• Compliance with Environmental Regulations:

  • We operate in compliance with local and federal regulations to ensure that the removal process doesn't harm the surrounding ecosystem.

Read more about the different vessel types we can help remove.