Now that you are a boat owner, you need to take care of your boat so that your boat takes care of you. Owning a boat is not cheap so you need to do what you can to prolong its life and enhance your boating journey experience. Here are a few things you should be doing or checking periodically:

• Wash your boat regularly- it is best to do this after every use, using fresh water, a long-handled brush and environmentally friendly soap specifically made for boats to protect the gel coat finish and environment.

• Wipe down your boat seats- to prevent dirt, salt water, mould and mildew from damaging your seats, ensure you are washing them down (without letting water pool in the seat). Then rinse away the soap residue by wiping it away in a circular motion with a clean damp cloth or sponge and drying the seats down afterwards. Also applying a UV inhibitor once a week should help prevent fading and cracking.

• Check the engine over- now and then look over the engine to ensure all hoses are intact (replace if you notice cracks), lubricate moving parts with anti-corrosive lubricant, check for corrosion on fuel lines and clamps and check that the outboard motor is secure to the transom by tightening bolts.

• Clean the interior of boat on a regular basis- hoover the floors and carpets. Be sure to wipe down and clean all surfaces and storage compartments with a biodegradable boat wash solution.

• You will also need to keep an eye on the propeller, battery, bilge pump, electrical lines and ensure the oil and oil filter are changed when necessary.

Being a responsible boat owner and looking after these items will save you time and energy, allowing you more time to enjoy your vessel.