When launch day arrives and it is time to hit the water, a well-maintained yacht that is clean, protected and looking good is the goal for any proud owner or refit yard.

Aside from aesthetics, proper maintenance is the key to optimal performance, both above and below the waterline. The many benefits include improved hull efficiency, enhanced reliability and safety, and reduced need for costly repairs during the season, all of which can help to retain the boat’s value.

To achieve these positive results, a structured plan is essential. When cutting corners is simply not an option, AkzoNobel’s global network of specialists and Yacht Paint Application Centers (YPAC) are available with local support to facilitate efficient processes and minimise costly errors and comebacks for yards and professionals.

From hull inspection and repair to fouling control and final finishing, among many other project critical considerations, AkzoNobel offers complete coating systems, compatible products, technical advice on product selection, application techniques and cure windows, as well as training options designed to ease pressures for yards.

Whether hauling out for a seasonal upkeep or re-launching, AkzoNobel is a consultative partner for the full maintenance cycle with a two-phase approach for a smooth sailing season.

Phase 1 – Haul-out and repair

With the yacht ashore, the groundwork is tackled methodically with clear access to every part of the hull.

When cleaning and inspecting the hull, AkzoNobel recommends starting from the top, pressure washing the topsides, working down to the underwater hull, and removing any surface contamination and fouling, before scraping back loose or flaking coatings.

A thorough cleansing of the hull with a specialised International® or Awlgrip® cleaning product will sweep off salt smears, as well as dirt and general grime. This is the time to check for cracks in the gelcoat or flaking paint that may need monitoring or repair. If the gelcoat appears dull or chalky, consider buffing, polishing or repainting.

Signs of osmosis including any blisters that may weep a fluid resembling vinegar should be treated. Also, it is a good idea to examine the keel and rudder for impact damage, cracks or sections where the coating may have become loose. When addressing and grinding out the affected areas thoroughly, ensure they are fully dried out after treatment.

It is good practice to take moisture readings with a hull moisture meter, particularly on fibreglass. If they come back high, AkzoNobel suggests letting the hull dry out fully before coating, since sealing moisture in is a common cause of blistering. If needed, it is the time to book insurance surveys or professional inspections.

When assessing necessary repairs to the hull or appendages, it is recommended to replace or reseal skin fittings, to prime exposed or bare areas, and service outdrives, sail-drives, and other underwater running gear.

Using products from AkzoNobel’s International® yacht coatings range, owners can tackle a range of maintenance and repair tasks during the lay-up period.

For cast-iron keels, AkzoNobel recommends washing and grinding back to bare metal before applying a few coats of Primocon®, a vinyl-based primer, early to protect the keel while ashore, which makes re-coating easier.

Any rudder damage, especially at the lower edges, should be addressed by drilling out low spots for moisture to escape, allowing to dry thoroughly and sealing GRP rudder damage with Primocon®. For shaping or filling, apply Epifill® filler. Once cured and sanded, reseal with multiple coats of Interprotect®.

For steel, aluminum and composite hulls, Interfill 830, a special two-component, light grey, epoxy that fills gaps of up to an inch without sagging, is perfect for profiling above and below the waterline.

It is best to empty, dry and clean lockers, storage areas and bilges for the final task of the first phase – interior and timber care. While skin fittings are being renewed, refresh bilge or locker coatings with Bilgekote® for lasting protection.

AkzoNobel also recommends removing lift-out timber items – cockpit seating, sole boards, hatches – to prep them somewhere sheltered. If conditions are dry, it is an ideal time for varnishing.

Phase 2 – Re-launch prep

The focus now turns to protection and finish.

Fouling control is one of the most important maintenance tasks. Firstly, the current condition of the antifouling coat should be assessed and, if paint is flaking or heavily built up, consider stripping it back. Sand and prepare the surface before applying new fouling control paint, which must be selected carefully based on local water conditions, vessel type and usage.

If switching brands, check compatibility charts to confirm that the new paint will adhere correctly. Primocon® can be applied over most pre-existing coatings. International and Sea Hawk offer a comprehensive range of antifouling solutions for different water and boat types. Review the paint guides and compatibility charts on the websites for specific product and application advice.

A yacht’s topside needs protection against UV damage and oxidation, due to the constant exposure to a harsh environment and cleaning chemicals. The benchmark professionals trust, the Awlgrip® product line is renowned for offering the highest-quality finish and performance topcoats.

For a buffable, polishable and repairable finish, use Awlcraft 3000, the next generation of high-gloss premium acrylic urethane topcoats, or Awlgrip HDT (High Definition Technology), an advanced polyurethane coating delivering improved flow and excellent finish quality.

The One UP® and Toplac® Plus system from International® offers faster application, with fewer coats required for a professional finish. The enhanced UV protection helps maintain colour and gloss for longer, while a smoother, glossier finish eliminates the need for tipping with a brush.

For a lasting finish with great chemical and abrasion resistance, Perfection Pro can be used as an ultra-high gloss topside paint with strong colour retention.

Contact the AkzoNobel team for support and information, and visit the International®, Awlgrip and Sea Hawk websites to explore the full product range.

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