How to Keep your Boat Bottom Clean in the Gulf of Mexico

Skipper July 26, 2011 Ask The Skipper

Larry asked:

I winter in South Padre Island where I leave my fiberglass boat in the water, pulling it out every 2 weeks for a bottom scrubbing. Lots of work! This year I plan to apply your products just before we head south, but I a not sure what should be done in the event the slim doesn’t just wipe off the bottom. If boat scrub is required to clean the growth off the bottom will it affect the life of the bottom coating? I take very good care of my equipment, so what do you expect from the Gulf and how do you recommend keeping it clean without harming the bottom coating?

Thanks
Larry

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

VS721 makes it difficult for marine growth to attach. If you keep the slime off by wiping with a sponge or Marine Power Mitt, as it starts to appear you should be able to keep it clean for up to 6 months without re-application. Using Boat Scrub for regular maintenance is not recommended as it will strip the coating. VS721 is very durable and has been tested at speeds up to 145 mph and found to still be effective 6 months later. The only maintenance required is to wipe the slime off as it appears. That way it won’t get a grip or become food for higher life forms which then can also attach.

VS721 will also seal the pores in the gelcoat to prevent osmosis blistering and give you better performance and fuel economy. It will make launching and hauling onto your trailer much easier as well

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar