The thrill of cruising across the water can be dampened by the silent enemy below… and that is marine growth. Barnacles, algae, and other aquatic organisms can cling to your boat’s hull, creating drag, reducing fuel efficiency, and ultimately damaging the boat’s surface over time when this problem is not fixed. If your boat is in the water most of the time and you’re worried about these pesky pests, don’t worry! Here’s a guide on how to keep your Quintrex or Stabicraft boat’s hull squeaky clean and free from unwanted marine hitchhikers.

The Different Types of Marine Growth

Macrofouling: These are the large and visible culprits like barnacles and mussels. They attach themselves to the boat’s hull, creating a rough, uneven surface that disrupts water flow and increases drag.

Microfouling: These microscopic organisms, like algae and slime, might not be readily visible, but they form a slimy film on the hull, also increasing drag and hindering boat performance.

Biofilm: This complex community of microorganisms act as a foundation for other marine growth to establish itself, making it even more challenging to remove.

Different Strategies You Can Do To Prevent Marine Growth

Anti-Fouling Paint: This is your first line of defence. Anti-fouling paints contain biocides that deter marine growth from attaching to the hull. Choose the right paint type based on your boat’s material (fibreglass, aluminium, etc.) and intended use (freshwater vs. saltwater).

Regular Washing of Boat: The best defence is a good offence. After every saltwater trip, thoroughly rinse your boat with fresh water to remove any lingering spores. Pay particular attention to areas like the keel, rudder, and trim tabs where growth tends to accumulate.

Copper-Based Anti-Fouling System: These systems incorporate copper elements that leach into the water, deterring marine growth. However, their use might be restricted in certain areas due to potential environmental concerns.

Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling System: These systems emit high-frequency sound waves that disrupt the settlement of marine organisms. They are a good option for boaters concerned about the environmental impact of traditional anti-fouling paints.

Cleaning the Marine Growth

For stubborn growth, regular brushing and scraping of the hull should be done regularly. Choose appropriate cleaning tools based on your boat’s material to avoid scratching the surface. Scrape off marine growth on land, not in the water. This prevents the dislodged organisms from polluting the water and potentially harming other marine life.

Pressure washing can be a time-saving way to get rid of loose marine growth. However, use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the paint or gel coat.

Several marine-grade cleaning products are available in marine shops to aid in the removal of stubborn growth. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using these products.

Dispose of used paint and paint scrapings responsibly at designated hazardous waste facilities. Never dump paint residue into waterways.