How to wash your boat properly after a day at sea

Salt left to dry on a boat attracts moisture, speeds up corrosion on metal fittings and dulls finishes. A fresh-water rinse and wash after every saltwater outing is the simplest habit that protects your investment.

Step by step

Rinse first. Hose the whole boat top-down with fresh water to lift salt and grit before you touch any surface, so you don't scratch the gelcoat.
Wash with a marine boat soap. Use a soap made for boats and a soft brush or mitt, working from top to bottom in sections.
Rinse again thoroughly, including hardware, rails, hatches and drains, before soap dries on the surface.
Dry and inspect. Chamois or microfiber the windshield, glass and stainless to avoid water spots. Look for loose fittings or spots of corrosion while you dry.
Upholstery and canvas. Rinse off salt and let them dry fully before covering the boat.
Don't forget the engine. Outboards used in saltwater should be flushed and rinsed after each use. The flushing method (flush fitting or muff) depends on your engine; follow your owner's manual.^[1]

Common mistakes: using household detergents or abrasive pads on gelcoat; washing in direct midday sun so soap dries on; aiming high-pressure water at engine electrical connections or air intakes.^[1]

Not sure about a product or procedure for your boat? Ask the M Costa Marine team on WhatsApp.

Sources: [1] Mercury Marine, "Preventing Corrosion" (flush and rinse after each saltwater use; check the owner's manual for flushing options; avoid high-pressure water on electrical connections): mercurymarine.com. Yamaha owner FAQs on flushing: yamahaoutboards.com. Always follow your boat's and engine's owner's manuals.