Year-End Yacht Maintenance Checklist: What Should You Do Before the New Year
As the New Year approaches, it is the ideal time for yacht owners to focus on year-end yacht maintenance. Addressing key systems now helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, reduces repair costs, and ensures your vessel is ready for the season ahead.
At Hartman Yacht Maintenance, we recommend using the quieter winter period to complete preventative maintenance tasks that protect performance and extend the life of critical onboard systems. Below is a practical year-end yacht maintenance checklist to help you start the New Year with confidence.
1. Inspect and Service Engines and Generators
Engines and generators are the heart of your yacht and should be a top priority before the New Year.
Key tasks include:
Checking oil, coolant, and fluid levels
Inspecting belts, hoses, and clamps
Verifying proper raw-water flow
Running generators under load
Verifying all sea strainers are clear and free of debris
Sea strainers must be clean to allow proper water flow to main engines, generators, raw-water pumps, and air conditioning units. Restricted flow can lead to overheating and reduced system performance. Periods of reduced use can also allow salt and mineral buildup to form, which impacts efficiency and reliability.
2. Descale and Flush Raw-Water Systems
Raw-water system descaling is the most overlooked maintenance item every year.
Over time, salt, calcium, and mineral deposits accumulate inside:
Heat exchangers
Condensers
Engines and generators
At Hartman Yacht Maintenance, we recommend cleaning raw-water systems twice per year, especially in warm home waters where scale buildup accelerates during the summer months. Performing descaling at year-end improves cooling efficiency, restores proper flow, and helps prevent overheating and premature component failure.
3. Test Batteries and Electrical Systems
Electrical issues often arise during periods of inconsistent use, making year-end inspections critical.
Be sure to:
Test battery voltage and charge capacity
Inspect terminals for corrosion
Inspect cable ends for proper fit and security
Confirm shore power connections are secure
Check panels and breakers for wear
Proactive electrical checks reduce the risk of failures when systems are needed most.
4. Inspect Hull, Running Gear, and Zinc Anodes
A thorough inspection below the waterline is essential before extended dock time.
Focus on:
Hull condition and bottom paint
Propellers, shafts, and rudders
Thru-hulls and seacocks
Zinc anodes and bonding systems
Replacing depleted zincs protects underwater metals from corrosion and electrolysis damage.
5. Check Plumbing and Freshwater Systems
Plumbing issues can quietly worsen over time if left unattended.
Year-end checks should include:
Inspecting freshwater pumps and fittings
Checking heads and sanitation hoses
Flushing systems to reduce mineral buildup
Looking for leaks or unusual odors
Early detection prevents more serious repairs later.
6. Clean, Protect, and Secure the Vessel
Before the New Year, take time to protect your yacht’s exterior and interior spaces.
Recommended steps include:
Washing and protecting exterior surfaces
Repairing scratches or surface damage
Waxing all gel-coated surfaces at least twice per year
Inspecting canvas, covers, and seals
Cleaning and drying bilge areas
If water is found in the bilge, attempt to locate the source of intrusion and repair it if possible. Keeping bilges clean and dry helps prevent corrosion, odors, and long-term structural issues. Properly adjust dock lines and fenders for seasonal conditions to reduce wear and movement.
7. Plan Preventative Yacht Maintenance for the Year Ahead
December is also the best time to plan ongoing preventative yacht maintenance.
Consider:
Scheduling annual or semi-annual service
Planning system descaling before peak season
Budgeting for routine maintenance
Addressing small issues before they become emergencies
A proactive maintenance plan minimizes downtime and extends the life of onboard systems.
Start the New Year with Confidence
Completing a year-end yacht maintenance checklist is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment and ensure reliable performance throughout the coming year.
If you need professional inspections, descaling services, or maintenance planning, Hartman Yacht Maintenance is here to help. Our experienced team specializes in preventative marine maintenance designed to keep yachts running efficiently, safely, and ready for the season ahead.