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Living on a boat can be an incredible experience; it's certainly something every sailor dreams of. But there are some logistical challenges that you should be aware of before moving in. This post will tell you the biggest obstacles to living on a houseboat, as well as some of the great things about houseboat life. The serenity of life on the waters, the calm and peaceful atmosphere, the thrill of an adventurous and pleasurable lifestyle, all of these and more are some of those things that make houseboat living a thing for many people. But that’s not all; beyond the thrill, beyond the pleasures, beyond all of the advantages, lays the many hidden challenges. If you’ve lived in a houseboat, what unexpected disadvantages did you experience? Living on a houseboat presents several challenges along with the thrills and fun that come with it. These changes may seem like a disadvantage to some people to varying extents and will definitely cause a change in your lifestyle. Although a houseboat may cost less than a land-based home, you’ll have to get prepared for regular maintenance since it will be floating on water. Saltwater is corrosive, so houseboats and liveaboards need to be more well maintained. As you’ll need electricity, it can be troublesome if you don’t have a reliable power base. While it will cost you just a little to power lights and charge your gadgets, getting electricity for things like refrigeration, heating, or cooling would cost you more. Another issue has to do with the mailbox address. If you aren’t able to secure residential mooring, in some cases, you might have issues getting a mailbox. This may prompt you to use a friend’s or family’s address when needed. But if you’re able to get a residential mooring, this won’t be a problem. The way you do some things will be different. You’ll need sewage disposal for your toilet as well as you will need to pump water for use. While the way these things get done varies slightly from boat to boat, there will still be a few things you’ll have to adjust with when living on a houseboat. You’ll also need to consider how winter looks like in your area of choice. Will you be able to live with all of these? It’s left for you to decide! What are the risks of living in a houseboat? When you plan to buy a houseboat to live aboard, you’ll also need to be well-informed about the risks associated with such a move. Even in land-based homes, you’ll still need to have some precautionary measures in place. When you’re living on a houseboat full-time, here are some of the risks associated with such a lifestyle as well as some of the various safety measures you can have in place to keep you and your investment protected. The first thing has to do with the possible water conditions that could affect your stay. We’ve heard cases of lakes drying up during drought. Have you considered whether this is a possibility in the location of your choice? Your floating home is also not immune to destruction. Being on the water year-round makes them susceptible to corrosion and so proper maintenance will be needed to ensure they are guarded against this. You’ll also need to be aware of where you’re living. Living on a riverine also exposes individuals to dangers such as drowning. This needs to be considered properly, especially for those who can’t swim. Most marinas would have safety measures in place but you have to be sure kids and elderly ones are well protected against this risk. Fire extinguishers, as well as water pumps, are also part of those things you should have handy to prevent fires as water leaks from inside the houseboat. What are the problems associated with houseboat life? There are a few problems that would come with you owning and living on a houseboat. This can be related to your lifestyle as regards your houseboat living or problems from a financial point of view. Let’s look at problems with cost first. When you buy a houseboat, you still have to maintain it to be in the best condition. This will need money. You’ll also need to pay marina fees as well as for sewer, electricity and other utilities. There is also the need to budget for unexpected repairs as well. All of these may seem a tad inconvenient for some people especially those who are not well informed before making their purchase. There may also be problems or disadvantages with your houseboat living lifestyle. A few things will change with the way you live. You’ll learn to appreciate space no matter how small. You’ll need to regularly dispose of sewage through sewer hoses. For some, these challenges can cause quite a problem. You’ll also have to pay for mooring fees like we said earlier. It’s always good to get familiar with the houseboat and location of your choice to see if berthing is available and if the combination of such a location and the houseboat is convenient for you. There will no doubt be good times but how well you manage the few challenges will determine how happy you will be with your houseboat buying decision. What are the important things to remember before investing in a houseboat? There are a lot of things that you should properly consider before buying a houseboat. This will help you ensure the process before and after your purchase gets as smooth and easy as possible. Will a houseboat cost and subsequent expenses fit into your budget? Aside from the cost of buying the houseboat, there will still be some expenses you’ll incur while living on a houseboat. To be on the safe side, you’ll be better off getting quotes on expenses such as insurance as well as researching what running and ongoing maintenance costs you may likely incur. We have an expense spreadsheet available that can help with this. You can send us an email if you’d like a free copy. Also, a houseboat differs from the landed property in that it will depreciate and will likely have more wear and tear as time goes on. It is advisable to set aside a part of the annual houseboat expenses for this. Also, mooring costs, as well as availability, can be a tough issue in some harbors and marinas. It is always better to ensure there is availability before investing in this. You’ll also have to consider financing as well though in some places you can get houseboat loans in slightly similar ways to mortgage loans. Other financing options are often generally available. What should I take into consideration when deciding to live in a houseboat or not? Life on a houseboat is no doubt fun and exciting but is it for everyone? Maybe not! As peaceful and idyllic as it can be, life on the water, and living in a houseboat can also be challenging or hard at times. This will mostly have to do with some of the things we discussed here. The first has to do with you being able to provide enough budget to cover ongoing maintenance expenses. A change in lifestyle, space management, and some other things need to be considered. Mooring, insurance, maintenance & repairs, utilities, as well as location convenience should be properly considered. If you’ll be working, will the berthing location be convenient for your lifestyle? The truth is that living on a houseboat will come with challenges. What you need to do is weigh your options for and against the decision. Once you are in the clear, you can easily purchase the perfect houseboat to live out your dream life.

If you love to sail and are waiting for the right time to buy a powerful and versatile boat, then buying a trimaran yacht for sale is the best decision you’ll ever make. A trimaran yacht for sale can take you to places where you couldn’t normally go with any other type of boat. This is because, compared to other boats which are single-hulled and have a hard time on heavy seas, a trimaran will easily cut through them as though they were made of butter. Also, some boats use sails to move from point A to point B, a trimaran uses its three sails along with its motor, so it doesn’t need direction from another source. There are a lot of reasons to buy a trimaran yacht for sale, which often excites boat lovers the world over. Some are buoyed by the versatility of these vessels and for some, the secret lies in the performance. Whatever your reason for buying a trimaran sailboat or yacht, there's no denying that these multi-hull watercraft come with lots of benefits and advantages. These exceptional vessels are simply multi-hull boats with the main hull and two smaller outrigger hulls which are laterally attached to the main hull. Due to their exceptional design, most trimaran yachts for sale excel as recreational, racing, and even as ferries. Benefits of Buying a Trimaran Yacht for sale Buying a trimaran yacht is a great way to enjoy the water in comfort and style. Compared to a traditional boat, a trimaran yacht can be much more economical and convenient. Many owners use their vessel for day coastal cruising, as a raid during the summer, or for regattas during the offseason. Before we go into the details about trimaran boats, let us first look at some of the advantages buyers enjoy when they choose to buy a trimaran. Value and performance For most people, price and value are important considerations when deciding whether to buy a catamaran—whether it’s a trimaran or any other type of boat. The problem with most people is that they don’t know how to compare costs. They look at the unit price rather than the cost per knot. As for trimaran cost, you can expect a good value if you pay attention to performance. A trimaran costs more than a monohull of similar length, but it is much faster. Speed and stability Buying a trimaran yacht for sale comes with speed and stability advantages. The superior performances enable higher speed levels which in turn increases boat range. This is why a trimaran is an excellent choice for fast-paced cruising Thus, you can use trimaran boats to reach more remote areas than other vessels. The buoyancy of the leeward float, as well as the double outriggers also offer some form of stability to the vessels. The principle hull of trimaran boats can be flared out easily without worries or fears of being toppled over. Once a trimaran is at sea, it can move more easily in wind and water currents. But, before you buy a trimaran, make sure it has all the features you want. Once you've decided on your price, you'll have a better idea of which model is best suited for your needs. Space and comfort Modern yachts and boats are usually designed to optimize comfort and performance. A multihull trimaran sailboat, as the ideal all-in-one small boat has the ideal space to offer a balance between comfort and performance without any compromise. In contrast to a catamaran with only a single trampoline, a trimaran sailboat would usually have a principle hull which is not only spacious but also safe enough for comfortable use. Also, when accommodated in a marina, a harbor, or even on land, a trimaran yacht for sale would save you significant costs due to the reduced storage costs. Easy trailing and superior handling If you want something you can handle easily, then you should consider buying a trimaran yacht. Trimaran yachts are relatively easy to trail and so sailing or cruising in new areas is as easy as it gets. Their drafts are usually shallow and so they can easily access places where keelboats may not be able to reach. Trimarans are lightweight, making them easier to handle when compared to catamarans. Lightweight boats can be easier to manhandle if you need to move them from one place to another. All things being equal, trimaran boats are easier to tack than catamarans. Important Things You Should Know Before Buying a Trimaran Yacht for Sale While we’ve discussed some of the most important benefits of why it would make sense to buy a trimaran sailboat, there are still a few things you’ll need to carefully understand and give proper consideration. These are outlined briefly in the parts below. You will be sailing, but with who? Most people often tend to ignore this question. Still, it is perhaps one of the most important things that will define your experience after the thrill that comes with purchasing a used or new trimaran yacht is all gone. Who will you be sailing with? You can’t expect an inexperienced couple to enjoy a vessel that will otherwise have been ideal for four or five experienced people. In both of these cases, the experience will be very different from each other Structural integrity and safety considerations As far as weight is concerned, multihulls are usually lighter than similar monohull boats although the loadings do not appear necessarily less. Ironically, amateur builders and designers are more often attracted to building multihull despite these vessels being less forgiving of design flaws. If you’re building from scratch, you should choose an experienced builder or designer with a proven track record. You may as well request a structural survey to be carried out by an experienced professional familiar with the structural design and engineering of multihull yachts. Safety advantage of trimarans The biggest general advantage of trimarans is safety. A well-designed trimaran will float with one or two hulls submerged and can usually be sailed to shore. Trimarans are inherently more stable and safer than monohulls due to the wide stance of the twin hulls and their narrow beam, which provides a large righting moment when heeled over. Tri's are built for surfing, so if you flip her over, you won't need to be a high-diver to get back on board. They also tend to lie flatter on their sides when inverted as well, making it easier to get back on board. They come with twin rudders so you already have emergency steering installed. The presence of two motors implies a 100 percent redundancy in propulsion. These safety advantages mean that a trimaran yacht for sale would rarely sink. Performance considerations Trimarans would perform excellently well of the wind. Although this excellent performance is no doubt a key marketing point for multihulls, trimaran yacht owners should still be wary of weight and windward work as important factors to consider. While loading a monohull boat with plenty of gear would slow it down to an extent, loading up a multihull with enormous gear would have a much greater effect on multihulls. These boats will be slowed down a lot more and may even be made unseaworthy. Considering the fact that multihulls often have plenty of storage and deck space, it is important that the urge or tendency to fill up these spaces with equipment is kept in check. The tendency of the yacht becoming overweight from excess equipment as well as low aspect ratio stub keels can result in a trimaran having a poor windward performance. This is still considering the subjectivity of the “poor windward performance” itself Capsizing resistance abilities Trimaran yachts and multihulls are not the only boats that can resist capsizing. Many modern monohulls can achieve this feat too. However, some trimarans and other multihulls, because of their high-performance cruising made possible by increasing the beam to carry the sail, and piling on the sail area, are able to resist capsizing more efficiently. The hull-lifting wind speed has been suggested as a measure to determine the tendency of a boat to capsize. Though there has not been any generally accepted figure, it is assumed that the hull should only lift until no more than 25 knots of speed. If you’d be buying a trimaran yacht, you can ask the seller what the hull lifting speed of your preferred boat is. Although it’s possible they may not know, it would still be comforting to know there’s never been such an occurrence after several thousands of miles on the sea. Still, you can ask a seller what particular wind speed they expect before they start reefing. Motoring considerations Trimaran yachts, like other multihulls, often spend the most time on sea motoring to windward. Therefore, the choice of the motor would prove very consequential to your experience aboard. Boats up to about 10m in length will find it attractive to fit lightweight and easy-to-maintain outboard motors. For inboards, there are a lot of options but the choice and options should border on performance. Comfort at anchor This is a general advantage of both catamarans and trimarans. Somehow, most people do not usually appreciate this until they are cruising. This advantage is attributed to two things. The first has to do with their exceptional resistance to rolling. So, for multihulls, anchorages that would have been barely effective for monohulls would do perfectly fine for multihulls. Another reason is the shallow draft that makes it possible for most multihull boats to work up creeks and inshore in a less crowded environment where you are more protected from waves and winds. If you’re planning to buy a trimaran yacht for sale, other things such as bridge deck clearance and close-quarters maneuvering should also be properly considered. Although buying a trimaran yacht is a valuable investment decision, you’ll still want to ensure you tick the boxes at the right places to improve your post-purchase experience. If you’ve worked things out with your crew or planning to buy a boat anytime soon, you can check out our boat collections at Basco Boats, to view the Trimaran sailboat for sale, as well as a host of other yachts we have in excellent conditions.

Have you ever wondered what the difference between a houseboat and a regular house is? If so, then this blog is for you. While most people would usually head out to the waters for holidays, seasonal fun and enjoyment, some people prefer to make life on the waterways a lifestyle. If you’re one of those who dream of making the waterways your permanent place of residence anytime soon, you’ll probably want to know the most important lifestyle changes you should anticipate. Owning a houseboat and living on a houseboat full time presents very many advantages. Likewise, it also comes with a few challenges. Before you take the plunge to embrace this thrilling adventure of a somewhat different life on the waters, let’s find answers to some of the most common questions most people usually have when deciding whether or not to buy a houseboat to start this new life that will bring them closer to nature. How is a houseboat different from other houses? First off, the term houseboat, boathouse or liveaboard may have different meanings depending upon the country. For example, a houseboat in Australia is quite different from a houseboat in Hong Kong. Also, the differences between continents also exist. A houseboat in the USA can be very different from a houseboat in Europe. Lake houseboats can also be quite different from marina houseboats and seafaring houseboats or liveaboards. A houseboat is a floating structure that can be moved from place to place. It's kind of like an apartment or condo, except it's out on the water instead of in the city. Houses that float are called houseboats because they're just like regular houses—they have windows, doors, walls, roofs, etc.—but they float instead of being anchored to the ground. A houseboat easily doubles as a house on which people can permanently reside. They are usually not designed to be seaworthy but able to travel short distances occasionally for repair or maintenance needs. Liveaboard boats are usually movable, unlike regular houses that are permanently situated in one location. They are designed to be seaworthy and they perfectly balance the boat and home aspects with little to no compromise. Because they are meant to be situated on the water, these boats usually come with proper waste disposal systems to ensure living on the water still has maximum convenience. Access to utilities like water and electricity may be provided by the marina or better still, you may install self-owned and renewable systems. While most of what has been discussed above have to do with basic differences between a houseboat and a regular house, there will also be various significant differences in what life is like in each of these two residential abodes. It will open you to a new world of adventures but this also comes at a price. Purchase cost and ongoing expenses While the average houseboat may be cheaper than a regular brick and concrete house, houseboats still need ongoing expenses in a number of ways. You’ll have to pay the marina to keep your houseboat moored. You’ll have to also pay for several other expenses ranging from the slip to waste disposal among others. Now, for most enthusiasts who fantasize about a residential life on the waterways, all of these challenges still are no match to the thrill and fun of a serene and adventurous life on the sea. Houseboat and liveaboard boat differences The term ‘houseboat’ is often used interchangeably with ‘liveaboard’ although there are distinct differences between both. Both are designed to be used as permanent residences, but the way they're used is different. A houseboat is usually moored to a dock or dry land and a liveaboard can be moored anywhere that provides access to fresh water and power. In general, a houseboat is more like a house on the water and a liveaboard boat is more like an apartment on the water. Houseboats are equipped with the basic things you’ll normally need in a residential abode. In manufacturing a houseboat, manufacturers would often use a combination of different materials ranging from steel to timber, and fiberglass, at times. How is daily life in a houseboat different from in a regular house? Living on a houseboat full time surely comes with a lot of thrills as well as a few challenges. There are certainly a lot of ways in which life on water will differ from that in a regular house. All of these differences would usually define your daily life and would be the highlights of your best memories and also the less memorable ones. In what way then is daily life on a houseboat different from in a regular house? Let’s see! Incredible and scenic waterfront views every day all-day Forget the fact that a houseboat is still called a boat. These houseboats are more of a house than they are boats and owning one of these buoyant houses comes with a lot of responsibilities. So, you’re the homeowner, the captain of this incredibly beautiful boat, let’s see what your daily life in here would basically look like. Every time you wake up in the morning, you wake up to scenic and incredible waterfront views. Because your boat will also be docked here at the marina, you can always have much of everything the bay or lake has to offer as far as fun and recreational activities go. BEDROOM – 2006 LUXURY CUSTOM HOUSEBOAT 55′ “SASIPA” Every day is a holiday when you’re living on a houseboat fulltime Imagine sailing along the coast in your own private haven. A family dance party on your deck. Peace and quiet in the morning with fresh bird calls from the waterfront. It's easy, eco-friendly, and cheaper than buying a house and having a mortgage. While a lot of folks only get to enjoy fishing, boating, and tubing on their vacations, these may become a regular afternoon or evening routine for you. While people in their brick and concrete houses would have to mow their lawns and tend to the garden, you won’t have to worry about any yard maintenance. Depending on where you choose to live too, you shouldn’t have to pay property taxes unlike what is usually the case with landed properties. Getting food, water, and electricity As some of the basic needs of life, these will also be a part of your daily life on a houseboat. While you can always cook your meals on board, you should be sure there are restaurants around if you’ll be occasionally going out to eat. Access to water and electricity are also sometimes provided by the marina for a fee although you can also generate your own power by yourself. You’ll also have to pay for waste disposal every week to dispose of sewage. Also, you’ll have to pay for routine maintenance and expenses that come with living on the water. KITCHEN – 2006 LUXURY CUSTOM HOUSEBOAT 55′ “SASIPA” If I move from an apartment into a houseboat, what life changes should I expect? If you choose to embrace the promising life of living in a houseboat fulltime, there is a lot of changes that will come with your new life. First off, you’ll most likely have to join a marina club or association. Most marinas where you can reside fulltime in a houseboat requires boat owners to become a member whose marina rules you’ll have to adhere to. Additionally, there are a few extra expenses that may come with this. Aside from what you pay for the boat, you’ll have to pay mooring fees, rental for the slip you’re using, sewage disposal, and routine maintenance. You should also know that a houseboat usually has less space and less extravagant compared to land-built homes. Other than that, you’ll want to appreciate this less space by making do with only the really important things. Life on a houseboat is generally peaceful, serene, adventurous and interesting. Summers are especially beautiful as you can easily engage in most activities that would have been otherwise possible on vacations alone. Although there will be expenses here and there, living in a houseboat fulltime still makes an excellent opportunity to experience the awesomeness and beauty of life in a way that brings you very much closer to nature. This experience definitely comes with a lot of thrills and benefits. In the end, we want to say that living in a houseboat is a good lifestyle for anyone who is willing. However, it's not for everyone. You need to be an open-minded person and love the water. The biggest reward of living on a houseboat is being able to spend every night sleeping under the stars and every sunrise taking a cold shower to wake you up!

Being out on the water opens up a whole new dimension – above and below the surface. So what makes a charter vacation so different? Here are a few things that make these ‘floating holidays’ stand out: Explore the great outdoors Essentially, a charter vacation is designed around ‘whatever takes your fancy’. Is it to explore an idyllic island, to snorkel in crystal clear waters, or just to lounge around on deck with a good book in hand? It doesn’t matter; let your imagination run wild. On a charter vacation, you can choose exactly what to see, where to go, and when to leave. You can literally be the master of your own destiny. Discover the world Map out an itinerary of all the places that interest you – preferably within relative proximity in nautical terms. Then entrust this schedule in the hands of your Captain and allow the crew to take you to your desired destination(s). What’s more – it’s not a static holiday. Each day can provide a new setting with a completely different vista from the day before. New sights, sounds and smells are on the horizon just waiting to be explored. The only thing that will limit you is time. Party on the Water Any excuse is a good excuse to have a party. Set the bar high and hold your event on board. The great thing about the venue is that there are no limitations – well within reason. There is no cut-off time or annoying neighbors to complain about the noise, the party can go on all night. A word of warning – be prepared to fish a guest out of the water if they fall overboard after a few too many glasses of champagne. Having said that, it doesn’t need to be a wild affair; other options can include a karaoke gathering, a small cocktail soiree, or a dinner party using the expertise of the Chef onboard. Be active What better way to get fit than by having fun on the water? Depending on what yacht you charter, certain ‘toys’ will be at your disposal. Generally speaking, the larger the boat the more equipment is available. Spend your time on the water, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, jet skiing, swimming, and much more. The great thing about a charter holiday is that without realising it, you are actually getting a workout. Well, that is if you’re partaking in these activities. That being said, all that time lounging on the sundeck is also hard work. In a nutshell, a charter vacation will give back as much as you put in. Whether the aim is to have a high-octane expedition adventure or a low-key relaxing voyage – the choice is all yours!

Picture your perfect day out on a boat – it’s highly likely that the sun will be shining brightly and that it’ll be shimmering off the warm calm waters. This idyllic setting usually equates to the summer months: essentially the prime boating season. As a general rule, most prospective buyers start their boat research in the spring in preparation for the summer months, in effect making this the perfect timeframe in which to sell your boat. However, this formula does not always apply, particularly not in Asia, or more notably S.E.A, where it is warm all year round so other factors such as the monsoon season need to be taken into account. When it comes to buying or selling, the time in which to enter the market may make a big difference in the value you get. If you time it right you could get a great deal, if you time it wrong the end result may not be so sweet. Knowing when to sell at the right time is a fine art form. You need to figure out when the opportune moment is to part with your boat and when the buyers are out in force. So, when is the best time to sell your boat? Are you a bit puzzled? Well interestingly, Online Boat Auctions surpass all these obstacles as all logic can be thrown out the window. It removes the doubt and concern of the ‘right’ time to sell. A global database allows you to tap into a much wider market reach. Seasons or monsoon cycles no longer play such a big role when calculating the best time to sell as you are no longer dependent on where you or your boat are; but rather where your buyer is. You are now dealing with an international platform and a prospective buyer can be anywhere in the world. For example, the monsoon season in Singapore (Oct-March) is clearly not an ideal time to buy a boat in the local market but just may be the perfect time for a boat enthusiast in Australia who is looking to buy a vessel before the ‘summer’ months from December to February. Take the stress out of calculating the best time to sell – simplify your life and look at other alternatives.

In our world, keeping things nice and shiny gives us that feeling of pride. A glance at the gel coat on your boat can do the same thing – give you a feeling of pride mingled with nostalgia. Much like your own skin, proper care of the outer layer of your boat’s fiberglass hull is essential to maintain a fresh, youthful and simply great look! This layer of resin not only provides a glossy, colourful finish but also seals the fiberglass against water and moisture. Here are some top tips to keep that alluring shine: It all starts with an oxidation remover and buffer to remove all those little imperfections. Sounds like a pain, but a little bit of elbow grease will go a long way. Once you have parted with the buffer, focus on the consistency of wax needed to apply as a base coat. Even though the liquid wax is much easier to apply, the thicker consistency is the better option for your hull. Not only will it last longer, but a thick paste will also provide better protection – so just put in that extra effort. Once you have applied the double coat of protective wax, now you can take the easy route for the final coat. Lean toward a wax with a liquid carnauba-based product. Fresh water is a definite ally and a great friend. After every jaunt out on the boat, be sure to give it a proper fresh water wash. You don’t want the saltwater to dry up and create those evil crystals that will just magnify the sun’s rays and cause havoc on your waxwork. Also in need of some TLC are your rub rails. Black rub rails just need a little automotive tire cleaner, which will do the trick and have them looking like new – a sure booster for the gel coat appearance. Don’t forget the chrome and stainless steel finish as well. Metal polish will have everything shining in no time and will just add to the beautiful gloss of your gel coat. If some dreaded staining does appear, then apply a dedicated hull cleaner and follow by re-waxing the gel coat. As effective as these cleaners are in removing those tough stains, they also contain acid that will eventually destroy the protective wax coating on your hull. Remember, when storing your boat, try to keep it in the shade as those UV rays will deteriorate the wax. Stay clear of direct sunlight. Top tip: Avoid applying an acrylic coating or polymer over a waxed hull. Short term your hull will look great, but over time if any wax residue gets trapped between the coating barriers then it will turn yellow over time. Best to avoid this scenario.

Everything ages, including your teak woodwork. Over time, nature’s elements and general wear will stain a teak boat. Restoring teak means getting your boat's teak back to its original state. Teak is one of the most popular materials for boat construction, but it can be damaged by the elements and other factors over time. If you've got an older boat that needs some help, here are a few simple steps to help Restore Your Teak, either with teak oil or varnish: Teak oil option: Clean the surface – wipe away any dirt with a damp rag. Deep clean – there are three options for cleaning. The cost-effective approach is a combination of laundry detergent (75%) and chlorine bleach (25%). Leave this solution on the teak for a few minutes and then rinse off. Otherwise, try a cleaner with oxalic acid or as a last resort a two-part cleaner (follow instructions for use carefully). Select a teak oil – choose which type best suits your needs, there are a wide variety of oils available; mildew protection, UV filters, and so forth. N.B. Be sure you know what base is used for the teak oil – linseed oil (cheaper but will darken wood) or Tung oil (more expensive but water-resistant). Paint on – apply several coats of oil and wipe away any excess. Apply enough oil to saturate the wood. Teak Sealer – will help protect the oiled teak. Best to wait at least two weeks before applying it. An oil-free surface is needed for the sealer to work so wipe down the wood with an acetone-soaked cloth. Seal the deal – apply a few coats of sealer with a brush and allow to dry. Repeat – to maintain a great oiled teak wood finish, clean and reseal every few months. Varnish option: Thoroughly clean the area – wipe away any dirt. Apply a thick coat of varnish or paint remover on the teak floor for around half an hour, or as long as is specified on the tin. Use a paint scraper to remove the old varnish. Apply more varnish remover on any stubborn areas that won’t budge. Paint thinner will come in handy to make sure all the leftover varnish is removed from the teak flooring, apply with a rag and allow it to dry for around an hour. Apply a thin coat of waterproof varnish. Allow the deck to dry for several hours. If there are any bumpy or rough patches then use fine-grit sandpaper to smoothen them. Repeat with another thin coat of varnish – dry for 6 hours. Enjoy the end result. We hope the steps we've outlined here have been useful to you and that you feel confident in how to restore your boat's teak back to its original condition. If you have any questions, feel free to leave us a comment below or send us a message on Facebook.

Chartering a yacht is a big deal. It's not just about making a holiday or celebrating an occasion. It's more than that. It is about visiting some of the most spectacular destinations on Earth and making new friends at the same time! Sounds interesting? The image of soaking up the sun with a good book in hand, and a cold drink in the other, on your own private yacht, is very appealing! Forking out vast sums of money to own your own boat may not be as attractive. Chartering just may be the perfect solution Here are a few reasons to start planning your charter trip now: Tailor-made It’s about you. Your wish is your charter operator’s command. Think big, small, fast, luxurious, the list goes on. It’s all a possibility when you charter. All the details are taken care of by the crew and an itinerary is fixed to suit your needs. Do you see a theme here? It’s all specifically revolved around your plans. Basically, all you have to do is show up and sit back and relax. Once onboard the crew will take care of the rest. Bliss! The world is your Oyster Wherever you dream of going can become a reality. Pick a place, any place that you wish to explore. Decide when and where to go and the charter operator will devise an itinerary to best match your travel plans. Whether it is exploring a secluded, palm-lined, white sandy beach in the Bahamas or enjoying the sights and sounds of the Mediterranean: your wish will come true. Yacht chartering is an excellent way to discover new places and cultures. As a result, it can make you feel happier and more relaxed. You are also likely to get over depression if you go for this vacation. It is great for families. It is the best way to spend some quality time with your family members away from the realities of life. It is perfect for corporate groups and events. Those who want to organize a business meeting or corporate event can opt for an exclusive yacht chartering option. Yacht selection At the end of the day, it comes down to you. Visualise your trip; does it include sipping Mai-Tais on the deck while watching the sunset, feeling the warmth of the sun on your back while you lounge on a sun pad? Or rather, feeling the sea breeze gently blow past you while dining on deck? You get the idea. Charters allow you to make this happen, they are designed to suit your specific travel plans and needs. Budget options Boats come in all different shapes and sizes, and price. It is possible to find what you’re looking for to suit your budget. Are you looking for an intimate weekend escapade or an adventure with a bunch of friends? Seek and you shall find your perfect yacht at the price that you want. N.B. Don’t want to burst your bubble but keep your expectations in line if you have a limited budget. The super yacht option with the jet-ski accessories may not happen. Added benefits Oh yes – ‘toys’ are also included onboard. Again, depending on what you have in mind, different yachts offer different activities. You’re probably bored of hearing this, but it all comes down to what you’re essentially looking for in your charter adventure. If it’s fun in the sun, then keep your eyes open for vessels that include, scuba equipment, snorkeling gear, kayaking gear, skiing props, windsurfing kit and even jet-skis. These are just a few options available and at your disposal. Convenience The biggest benefit of chartering a yacht is the convenience it offers. You can customize your trip itinerary around your own preferences and decide what you'd like to do on your yacht charter. This allows you to avoid the crowds, which lets you enjoy the scenery and scenery at your own pace. In a nutshell, chartering allows you to expand your horizons and gives you the freedom to explore the world; wherever and whenever you like. Note: If you're looking to buy a boat, check this page out for some great boat deals.

Vinyl tends to be very popular in today’s world and can be found pretty much anywhere on a boat; boat seats, interior furnishings, upholstery and so forth. This petroleum-based plastic is popular thanks to its strength and resistance to dirt, soil and water – hence making it a great material to use. However, boat maintenance always should include cleaning your vinyl on a regular basis. Vinyl is a very durable material, but it can also be hard to clean when things get dirty. The good news is that vinyl is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Here are some tips on how to keep your vinyl in tip-top shape: Get rid of the dirt Start off by getting rid of any dust, residue, or general dirt on the fabric. Give the area a good vacuum cleaner and make sure to reach every nook and cranny, lift those seat covers and clean in between all the joints. Wash A standard dishwashing liquid and water will do the trick as it is not so harsh on the vinyl fabric. Using a clean cloth or non-abrasive sponge then start cleaning away any grime, stains, grease etc. If this maintenance is done on a regular basis then it will avoid any long-lasting damage to the fabric. Be gentle Don’t use any products that are too harsh or abrasive, some cleaning solvents will actually do more harm. Check the proper use of the product before applying it to your vinyl surfaces otherwise you will risk discolouring your fabric. If you have any doubts on the cleaning solvent then choose a small section that is not readily visible and test it out; this will minimise the damage. Remove stubborn stains Here’s a big tip – you know those irritating stains that won’t budge such as ink marks, well they can actually be removed by rubbing alcohol or interestingly hair spray. Another tip is to use a 10% bleach and 90% water solution to remove stubborn stains like blood. Again test it out on a section of your fabric that is not clearly visible. Don't Use Hot Water on Your Boat Vinyl Never use hot water on your boat's vinyl. It could damage the material, which could result in expensive repairs and replacement. If you use hot water for cleaning purposes, make sure that you dry it off quickly before allowing it to cool down again. Prevent Mold/Mildew Vinyl fabric seats are vulnerable to mold and mildew due to constant water exposure whether it’s from the natural elements or those pesky kids with wet bathers. To best maintain the vinyl fabric, try to remove excess moisture by wiping everything down after a day out on the boat, and try to avoid storing your boat in damp areas. Boat maintenance can be time-consuming and troublesome, but regularly including a little bit of time on your boat vinyl will help keep it in tip-top condition. We just hope that now we've shared our tips on how to accomplish this task, you'll be able to enjoy your boat and its vinyl seats for many years to come. And if you have a boat job and are looking for a boat service provider, you can find one in our Technical Services Marketplace, BASCO BoatAssist.

If you're planning to finish your boat, the hull may be one of the most important surfaces that you need to paint. Paints are typically used for protection from water, as well as rust and corrosion. They should last for a long time, and having a good finishing is going to keep your boat looking great for a number of years. Nature’s elements will not go easy on a poorly painted boat hull. Seawater alone will destroy a badly painted hull and can strip away the paint. Not only is it aesthetically important to have a well-painted hull but it will also extend the lifespan of your boat. Here are a few steps to help you out: Protect & Prepare An essential part of the painting process is having the proper materials. Be sure to purchase all the necessary equipment before starting the job and don’t forget to wear gloves to protect yourself from the harsh substances you’ll be using while painting. To start, a layer of industrial solvent needs to be applied to the hull’s surface to help the paint stick properly. This is a big job so be prepared to put in the time and effort, don’t try to rush it. Once you have whipped on the gloves, then dip a sponge into the industrial solvent and evenly apply it to the boat hull surface. Thoroughly clean your boat The hull is the largest surface of your boat, so it’s important to make sure that it’s free of dirt and grime before you begin painting. This can be done by using a pressure washer or by using a stiff brush on all surfaces of the hull. Power Sanding Get out that power sander because it’s time to use it to remove any previous traces of paint from the hull. Sanding is an extremely important part of preparing the hull, so be thorough with this step. N.B. Before using any machinery, be sure to read the instructions. Tape off any areas that you don’t want to be painted Be sure to protect any areas where screws or bolts are exposed and any areas where mechanical equipment such as motor mounts are located. Tape around all openings in the hull for cables and plumbing so that none of these can get damaged by paint splashes during the application or when cleaning up afterwards. Shipshape It goes without saying that before you apply the paint, make sure that the hull is in good condition and repair any issues, dents or damages. If there are any holes, apply epoxy glue and make sure to smooth it all out to avoid any epoxy lumps, which will just make it harder to paint. Primer We’re getting close to painting now. If the hull is looking good and smooth then it’s time to add the primer. Use a roller to apply the primer as evenly as possible. After an initial coat, follow up with sanding to smooth out the surface and then add another layer of primer to create a solid base for your paint job. Start Painting Well done – you now have a great foundation in which to start painting. Choose a good specialized marine paint and with a roller and paintbrush apply the first coat to your boat hull. Painting can be quite therapeutic for some if it isn’t for you – still, don’t rush the job. Apply the paint carefully and especially in areas where bubbles can form. If you are satisfied with your paint job then allow for the paint to dry for several hours. Completing the Masterpiece To apply the finishing touches, brush on thinner layers of paint to evenly smooth out your painted hull. Repeat this process until you are happy with the end result. Remember, if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing properly! And if you have a boat job and are looking for a boat service provider, you can find one in our Technical Services Marketplace, BASCO BoatAssist.

Have you ever wondered why cleaning your boat before selling it is absolutely essential? While it may seem like a daunting task, cleaning your boat is not only necessary but also helps you get the best price for it. Here are some reasons why cleaning your boat is a must before selling it: 1. It makes your boat look good 2. It makes other people want to buy it 3. It increases its value So, if you want to increase the chances of selling your boat then clean it – it isn’t rocket science. If you put the effort into making it shipshape then you can ask top dollar. Essentially, cleaning your boat will make the difference in whether you make, or break a deal. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you can get away with a quick spruce-up before putting your boat on the market. It’s going to take a lot more than that to ensure a sale. As a general guideline: Focus on both the inside and outside – clean, buff, wax, oil, polish, scrub, varnish Repair any items that are broken, damaged or faulty Wash all canvas, fabrics, upholstery, carpets or anything that may carry an odd smell. Eliminate all odours – this is of vital importance. An odd or funny smell can linger and essentially can make a buyer walk away. How often have you jumped into a car or walked into a room with a pungent smell of smoke, or food, or worse? It can be extremely off-putting and also makes you just want to leave. So try to avoid a similar scenario on your boat. When a prospective buyer comes on board they should not be welcomed by a stench but rather by a pleasant scent. If there is a smell then try to find out where or what the source is. Here are some tips to eradicate the residual smell. Clean and clear out the holding tank Flush heads several times with fresh water Lift hatches and clean the seal Make sure the bilge is clean Clear out waterways and drains Flush out the shower sump Spray air freshener to remove unpleasant odours Clean out the fridge/freezer Air out the boat – remove mold and mildew In a nutshell, the importance of such a seemingly simple and obvious task such as cleaning is often overlooked. Cleaning should be an absolute priority before any viewing. It sends a clear message of the overall health of your boat and is an effective selling point. First impressions count more than you know!

Love. It's something we all want. Love can be a fuzzy feeling, or it can be the deep interpersonal desire to spend your life with someone else. But this blog isn't about love in general. It's about making anyone fall deeply (even passionately) into loving your boat for sale! So, here are some ways to help prospective buyers make a commitment. Take a Perfect Picture As the saying goes “A picture is worth a thousand words which is extremely relevant when trying to sell your boat and secure a viewing. Often buyers start their research process online and great pictures will make your vessel stand out from the crowd. Pay attention to lighting, focus on the best features and angles of the boat, and most importantly make sure all is clean and tidy. Think of yourself as a buyer and showcase the things that would appeal to you. Was it the spacious, bright interior that sold it, or was it the thought of sipping those sundowners on the flybridge that did the trick? Give your boat a facelift A good first impression is crucial. So make sure your boat is well kept, maintained, and most importantly clean. If possible give the decks a good wax, polish the metal and possibly add a fresh coat of varnish to any woodwork. A lick of paint where needed will also go a long way and remove anything that is worn out or looks tatty. Another must is to remove any odd smells, which can literally be off-putting in more ways than one. Just remember, a good-looking boat for sale on the outside reassures buyers that it is in good working condition on the inside. Remove the Clutter To make buyers fall in love with your boat, you need to make them picture themselves living in it. It's all about creating the right emotions and visualizing the lifestyle. Create a warm inviting space that is uncluttered, clean, and basically, a space where you could sit down, relax, and have a cup of tea or a glass of bubbly. It's best to de-personalize the area so that potential buyers can do the same. Don't leave your belongings in the boat for sale, as it will make it harder for potential buyers to imagine themselves living there. It needs to be a clean slate – this way, it is easier for prospective buyers to dream. Stay Positive Make sure to stay positive while you're giving the tour. With a positive attitude and rock-solid confidence in your boat's features and benefits, you'll be less likely to scare away potential buyers by highlighting its flaws or how much work there is left to be done on it. Be prepared Be prepared with specific answers to common questions that might come up. This includes questions about previous owners, maintenance records, and current issues and concerns about the boat (such as leaks). Mentioning these things is fine. Price is key! And last but not least, price it right. This can’t be stressed enough! Price is the absolute pivotal selling point for your boat. If the boat looks good, smells good, works well, and most importantly has a great asking price then it’s a sure bet to make someone fall in love. Note: Looking for an effective sales & marketing team that will project manage your boat to the conclusion of a sale? Check out our 9-Step Digital Marketing & Sales Program