With the arrival of autumn, temperatures become milder, and the Costa Brava offers one of its most magical times for sailing: uncrowded coves, calm seas, and unique sunsets. However, the weather fluctuations typical of this season—as we transition toward the colder months—require special attention to the maintenance of your vessel.
Whether you want to continue taking advantage of the navigable days of autumn or if you are preparing to protect your boat during the winter months, at Náutica Río we bring you this essential checklist so that your boat is always perfect, safe and protected.
1. Casco y obra viva: Limpieza e inspección visual
The condition of the hull (the submerged part of the hull) is critical to the efficiency and speed of your boat.
- Patent / Antifouling: Check the condition of the antifouling paint. If there are snails or algae attached, it’s time to clean and swell or apply a new coat to reduce friction and fuel consumption.
- Hull inspection: Check for cracks, cracks, or signs of osmosis.
- Sacrificial anodes: Check the wear of zinc or aluminum anodes. If they have lost more than 50% of their volume, replace them to protect the motor and metal parts from galvanic corrosion.
2. Engine and propulsion system: The heart of your boat
The engine is the lifeblood of sailing. Before the first start of the season:
- Fluid Levels: Check the engine oil level, tail/inverter oil, and coolant.
- Filters: Change or inspect fuel (decanter) and oil filters.
- Impeller (Water Pump Impeller): Check the condition of the rubber blades on the impeller. A worn or broken impeller can cause overheating in the middle of the sea.
- Spark plugs and belts: On petrol engines, check the condition of the spark plugs. Also check the tension and wear of the service belts.
3. Electrical system and batteries
Batteries suffer a lot during the months of inactivity.
- Battery charging: Measure the voltage of each battery. Charge them to 100% and check that they hold a charge after several days.
- Terminals and connections: Clean the terminals, remove the sulfate and apply vaselilated grease or protective spray.
- Navigation lights and electronics: Check that the masthead, port, starboard and range lights are working properly, as well as the sonar, GPS/Plotter and VHF transmitter.
4. Safety equipment and regulations
Safety at sea is paramount. Make sure you bring all the mandatory and proper equipment:
- Life jackets: Check that there is an approved vest for each seat and that the straps and whistles are in good condition.
- Flares and distress signals: Check the expiration date of the pyrotechnics.
- Fire extinguishers: Check the pressure gauge and the date of the last service.
- First aid kit and anchorage: Check that the medicines are not expired and check the attachment of the anchor, the line and the chain.
5. Documentation and licenses up to date
Before you leave the port, make sure you have on hand:
- Certificate of Seaworthiness (ITB up to date).
- Insurance policy in force.
- Navigation license or corresponding title.
- Anchoring permits if you are going to visit protected areas.
Let’s prepare your boat together at Náutica Rio
Carrying out all this maintenance requires time, tools and technical knowledge. At Náutica Río we are specialists in the maintenance, revision and tuning of boats on the Costa Brava.
Do you prefer to enjoy the sea without worries?
- Professional maintenance and mechanical checks: We leave your boat ready so that you only think about sailing.
- New and used boats: If you are thinking of renewing your boat, discover our catalogue of prominent brands such as Karnic, Axopar and the Pardo range.
- Charter Service: And if this summer you simply want to rent a boat to explore the best coves, check out our charter options.
