Essential Boat Care Tips for Summer: Keep Your Vessel Running Strong All Season

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Boating season is in full swing across Western New York, and for many boat owners, that means long days on Lake Erie, peaceful evenings on the Niagara River, and weekends spent cruising the Erie Canal. But summer’s heat, humidity, and frequent usage can take a toll on your vessel. The key to enjoying a trouble-free season is routine boat care.

At Collins Marine, we’ve served Buffalo-area boaters since 1953, and we know firsthand how important it is to keep your boat in top shape during the busy summer months. Below, we’ve compiled our expert advice for maintaining your boat so you can avoid breakdowns, extend its lifespan, and keep your time on the water safe and enjoyable.

1. Inspect Your Hull Regularly

Your boat’s hull is constantly exposed to water, sunlight, and debris—all of which can cause wear and performance issues if ignored.

What to do:

Inspect the hull weekly for cracks, blisters, or signs of algae buildup.
Clean the hull with a marine-safe soap and soft brush. For stubborn buildup, a hull cleaner may be necessary.
Apply a fresh coat of wax every few months to protect against UV damage and improve fuel efficiency by reducing drag.

If your boat stays in the water for extended periods (especially in the Erie Canal or Niagara River), you’ll want to schedule regular bottom cleanings or consider anti-fouling paint to prevent marine growth.

2. Monitor Engine Health and Fluids

Your engine is the heart of your boat—and summer is when it works the hardest. Extended cruising, towing water toys, and high-speed runs demand reliable performance. That means routine checks are non-negotiable.

Engine maintenance checklist:

Check oil and filter every 50-100 hours or as specified by the manufacturer.
Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear.
Flush the engine after every saltwater use (even if boating locally, freshwater flushing removes sediment and prevents corrosion).
Keep an eye on coolant and transmission fluid levels, if applicable.

At Collins Marine, we recommend having a mid-season engine inspection done by a certified technician—especially for boats with high usage or older powertrains.

3. Clean and Maintain the Interior

A clean boat is a happy boat—and one that holds its value. Interior maintenance also ensures a more pleasant experience for your family and guests.

Tips for interior care:

Vacuum and wipe down surfaces after each outing. Use mildew-resistant cleaners for cushions and vinyl.
Protect upholstery from the sun with covers or UV-resistant spray.
Check for moisture buildup in enclosed compartments and storage lockers. Use dehumidifiers or air circulators when necessary.
Rinse and dry carpets, coolers, and life jackets to avoid mold and odor.

Don’t forget to inspect and clean the bilge regularly. A clean, odor-free bilge is not only more pleasant but also helps detect leaks early.

4. Keep Electronics and Batteries in Top Shape

Marine electronics—from GPS systems to fish finders—are essential tools for navigation, safety, and enjoyment. But heat, humidity, and water exposure can cause failures if they’re not properly cared for.

Best practices:

Inspect wiring for corrosion or loose connections.
Use dielectric grease on battery terminals to prevent corrosion.
Fully charge batteries after each outing and monitor electrolyte levels if using flooded batteries.
Test your onboard systems regularly (navigation lights, horn, bilge pumps, radios).

5. Fuel System Maintenance

Hot temperatures can cause fuel to degrade more quickly and increase the risk of condensation inside the tank. This is especially true for boats that sit idle for long periods between outings.

Summer fuel care tips:

Use marine-grade fuel stabilizers if your boat won’t be used for a week or more.
Keep your tank topped off to reduce condensation, especially during fluctuating weather.
Replace fuel filters as recommended and monitor for signs of water contamination.

Bad fuel is one of the leading causes of breakdowns during the summer—prevent it with proactive care and regular inspection.

6. Check Safety Gear and Systems

Summer boating means more passengers, longer days, and higher traffic on local waterways. That makes safety equipment even more critical.

What to inspect:

Life jackets: Make sure you have the right number, size, and condition for everyone on board.
Fire extinguishers: Ensure they are charged and easily accessible.
Navigation lights and horn: Essential for evening or low-visibility outings.
Flares, first aid kits, and throwable devices: Replace expired items and restock as needed.

Consider storing a checklist on your phone or laminated near the helm to run through before every launch.

7. Schedule Routine Professional Maintenance

Even the most experienced boat owners can miss early signs of wear. That’s why having your boat serviced by a certified marine technician—especially mid-season—is essential.

At Collins Marine, our factory-trained technicians perform detailed summer inspections that include:

Full engine diagnostics
Propeller and lower unit inspection
Fluid checks and changes
Electrical system testing
Safety gear audit

We offer priority service to our regular customers and marina members. If you need a tune-up, repair, or seasonal inspection, now is the time to schedule it before peak demand hits in late summer.

8. Protect Your Boat When Not in Use

Just because your boat isn’t on the water doesn’t mean it’s not at risk. UV rays, rain, and wind can all take a toll.

Storage tips:

Use a fitted, breathable cover that protects from sun and moisture without trapping heat.
Remove electronics, valuables, and perishable items after each trip.
Check dock lines, bumpers, and fenders if your boat is kept in the water.

If you use a slip at Collins Marine, our team can advise you on the best docking and cover options for our marina’s conditions.

A Well-Maintained Boat Means More Time on the Water

Taking a little time each week to care for your boat pays off in big ways—fewer repairs, smoother performance, and a better overall experience. The summer months in Buffalo are short and sweet, and we want every one of our customers to get the most from their boating season.

If you have questions about any of the care tips above or would like to schedule summer maintenance, stop by Collins Marine in Tonawanda or give us a call. Our expert team is here to help you protect your investment and make the most of your time on the water.

Contact Collins Marine Today
Phone: (716) 875-6000
Website: www.collinsmarine.com
Location: 4444 River Road, Tonawanda, NY 14150

Need parts, accessories, or boat detailing services? We’ve got those too. Let Collins Marine be your summer boating partner—because when your boat is in top shape, the only thing you have to worry about is where to go next.