Boat detailing is a process of cleaning that brings out the details of the vessel and often leaves a boat looking brand new again. Professional detailing services are often costly and time consuming, but with the right tools and advice, anyone can detail their own boat. Much like auto detailing or RV detailing, boat detailing involves several different steps and products to bring out the beautiful color and fine points of the watercraft. A simple car waxing will not do the trick if one's objectives include a professional look and feel.



As with auto detailing, boat detailing should begin with a thorough washing of the boat with a power washer or hose. This will get rid of the excess dirt, bugs and other elements that can become attached to the boat's surface and can be difficult to remove without a high pressure spray. The canvas should receive attention next and a strong degreaser should be applied for two minutes. Again, this will remove excess dirt and built up elements. When the two minutes are up, scrub the canvas with a boat brush or similar item and then rinse the canvas thoroughly until it is free of dirt and debris. The next step should involve application of a waterproofing product to protect the canvas during rain or when in use.

Attention to the boat's hull is very important in the boat detailing process and must be done thoroughly and carefully. Use a hull cleaner but let sit for only one minute or less. The product should not be allowed to dry on the hull. Use a power washer to hose is down until it is completely free of the product. Hydrochloric acid may be used on areas where the waterline has left sea scum but be careful not to let the acid touch clothing or other materials as it will permanently stain. Wash the hydrochloric acid off thoroughly and the sea scum should be completely removed. This is just one service a professional detailing job performs, and one anyone can do within minutes.

RV detailing involves cleaning a large vehicle and boat detailing is no different, particularly when it comes to the brightwork of the boat. Brightwork is generally teak but sometimes mahogany and can become weathered and grayed over time. Use a two-part teak cleaner and scrub the teak, being careful not to allow the cleaner to come into contact with the gel coat as it can permanently stain. When the teak cleaning process is finished, there should be no gray or dark marks on the surface. If so, the deck may require a sanding and oiling to complete the job. If the teak is reasonably clean and mark-free, use a teak oil to seal the wood and protect it from the sun and other elements.

The gel coat of the boat should be the longest section during the boat detailing process and may require the longest time commitment. Begin with small section and buff using a polish and a high speed buffer or buffing pad. Be careful not to allow the polish to sit and dry as the gel coat is highly absorbent and prone to swirling. Use clean, micro-fiber or terry cloth towels to finish the buffing job, restoring the boat to its natural gleam and shine. Unlike the car waxing process, boats do not respond as well to wax and sealant is preferable. Again, apply sealant in small sections. Boat detailing like a professional is now complete!