Here is some advice for extending the life of your equipment, and particularly if you wish to adopt the best maintenance practices for sailing with absolute peace of mind.
Between each cruise, your boat stays still in its slip.
For the part of the hull beneath the water line, a yearly cleaning and antifouling is essential. This entails cleaning the hull, with the application of a new coat of antifouling paint, if necessary. Sometimes, this requires removing the first coat before applying another coat of paint.
The gelcoat on the part of the hull that is above the water line is often exposed to UV rays, moonlight, etc. These natural elements can cause the hull to yellow. In the shipchandlers, there are specific products to clean and maintain your hull.
The deck is heavily used while cruising, enduring foot traffic by crew, rubbing from lines, exposure to salt, etc., and rust marks or other spots can appear. We advise you to rinse your deck as often as possible, and ideally after each outing, and to clean it with specialised products in order to prevent premature aging.
If you have a teak deck, and you brush it regularly and apply specific protection to nourish it, you will appreciate the results, as your deck should weather well over time. We recommend that you avoid using a high-pressure sprayer for cleaning your deck in order to avoid causing damage to certain waterproofing and sensitive elements (teak, joints, upholstery, etc.).
When you clean your deck, be sure to have a look at the interior of your boat to ensure that no water is getting inside. Check around the window joints, deck panels and deck hardware.
Regular maintenance of your engine and related equipment, such as the battery and the electrical system, is indispensable to ensure a problem-free season.
We advise you to check your electrical system (batteries, fuses, etc.) regularly, or at the very minimum, annually, to verify that everything is in order before sailing and/or proceeding with changing out certain pieces that may be defective.
For the most effective function of your engine, make a habit of checking the following: the level of motor oil, the cooling fluid, the fuel system, the engine belts, the propulsion system, etc. Your Jeanneau dealer is at your disposal to assist you in conducting these essential checks.
Finally, add antifreeze to the raw-water cooling system at the end of the season after having rinsed your motor well with sea water in order to guarantee a well-maintained cooling system.
In order to ensure that your rigging stays in good condition, you must frequently check the various cables and crimping of your standing rigging, and at the slightest doubt, have it checked by your Jeanneau dealer. We advise you to replace it if it is over fifteen years old for your safety while sailing.
While your sailboat is in the water, check the alignment of your mast and rake to optimise your performance under sail.
It is important to rinse your sails after each outing to preserve them for the longest time possible and to protect them from the effects of UV rays, salt, and folds or stowing in humid environment. If possible, at the end of the season, you should rinse your sails, dry them and store them in a dry place for the winter.
There are also specific cleaning products available, in the case of rust marks or traces of mildew, when preparing for a new season.
This advice also goes for your Biminis and canvas boat covers.
Your tender and fenders must also be maintained, as they are exposed to the same exterior aggressions: UV rays, salt and humidity. Ideally, you should rinse these after each use to optimise their lifespan and save on investments in equipment over time.
Your dealer also offers specific cleaning products for sale that can be applied to your tender and fenders to bring back their shine and protect them from UV rays. Don’t hesitate to contact your dealership for their services or advice.
Have your rigging checked regularly, including: spreaders, shrouds, chainplates, halyards, foot of the mast, boom, etc. Every year, you should take care to check the wear on the ends of your halyards and reefing lines, which are important elements for your safety on board, and complete any necessary replacements or repairs before the start of the season.
These regular equipment checks enable you to manage the cost and maintenance of your new or pre-owned sailboat. If you would like more details or if you need a repair, please don’t hesitate to contact your nearest Jeanneau dealer.
They are able to offer professional advice and services for all of your equipment, including: for the operation and maintenance of your batteries, using the right oil, providing a full check of your electrical system before sailing, as well as painting services and tips for enhancing your teak deck, rinsing and preparing your sails to ensure successful storage, and any necessary equipment repairs…