Technology Can Make Boat Ownership Easier Than Ever

Technology and the Internet of Things impacts every aspect of our lives, home, car and lifestyles. So, it is somewhat inevitable that demand for this type of connectivity would eventually reach the boating world too.

Boat owners are beginning to turn to smart technology on their vessels to monitor, track, protect and enhance their boating experiences. Today’s top technologies allow you to connect with and monitor your boat and its systems while you are away. It also allows you to receive up-to-the-minute information while on the water for things such as bilge level alarms or important weather updates.

Boat manufacturers recognize the interest in this kind of technology. As a result, more boats are now being created with smart technology built in. Just recently, Yamaha purchased one of the front runners in boating connectivity devices, Siren Marine, with the intention of integrating its products on all their vessels moving forward.

So, what exactly is connected boating and what does it offer boat owners?

What is Connected Boating?

Connected Boating is the overarching term for the use of smart technologies to enhance boat ownership and boating experiences. 

Just like in other areas of our lives, the boating industry and boat owners are turning to smart technology and connected devices to improve security, monitor systems and offer real-time updates and alerts.

Specific devices or entire systems can be added to vessels that use sensors to collect data which is then sent to an information hub or cloud, using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or even satellite technology. 

This information is instantly and continuously analyzed. The information is sent back to the owner via an app subscription, downloaded onto their smartphone or tablet. In many cases, the owner is able to control and manage devices and switches directly from these apps as well.

How Can Smart Technology Enhance My Boating Experience?

All boat owners will know the worry of leaving your vessel unattended. Even in secure and safe marinas, issues such as electrical failures, drained batteries, water intrusion or fire could occur. 

Smart monitoring devices and systems can give you peace of mind by providing you with information about your vessel even when you are not near it.

A simple connected boating system for your yacht will usually include or have options for:

• Positional monitoring and alerts (GPS tracking)
• Bilge level alarms
• Smoke / fire alarms
• Battery level monitoring
• Tilt warnings
• Security / intruder alarms
• Temperature sensors
• Loss of shore power alarms

An even more advanced smart technology system may also offer:

• Remote controllability of some functions via phone app including:
  • Thermostat control
  • Ability to turn air conditioning and lights on or off
  • Remote engine start
• Collision alert warnings and automatic avoidance action
• Digital switches – control of main functions of vessel via touch screen
• Automated response to alarms – for example automatic temperature adjustments when senses indicate a change outside set parameters.

What Are the Benefits of Using Smart Systems on My Yacht?

People who love technology gadgets such as home hubs, smart watches and GPS in their vehicles will appreciate having similar devices on their boat.

Installing a system with the capabilities listed above, or buying a yacht which has pre-installed connectivity, brings many benefits, such as:

 

1. Remote monitoring: If your yacht is unattended most of the time, there are multiple benefits to remote monitoring systems. You can be alerted to early changes, such as a low battery or intake of water early, so you can take action before serious damage is caused or a day on the water is lost.
2. Control from anywhere on the boat: Use the phone app to monitor and control devices and switches from anywhere on your boat, so you don’t have to walk away from your fishing rod to check your fuel gauge.
3. Remote control: Imagine being able to turn the air conditioner on from your cell phone, so your cabin is already cool when you arrive. Imagine being able to double-check that all lights are off (preventing battery drain). Connected boating enables owners to easily interact with and maintain the daily workings of their boats and yachts.
4. Automatic adjustments: As the Internet of Things has developed, smart systems are now able to analyze the data they receive from your devices and systems. For example, the system can identify a problem, such as a drained battery, and automatically take action to solve it, by turning on the engine to recharge the battery. 
5. Reduced insurance costs: Although there is some initial cost to installing a smart system, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, some insurance companies offer reduced rates for connected boats. 
6. Save on maintenance and repairs: Being able to identify and solve issues before they get serious will save in repair bills over the yacht’s lifetime. Some smart systems are even able to monitor and advise when maintenance is required making sure you’re only doing what you need to.

Can I Install Smart Technology on My Yacht?

Although many brand-new yachts now come with smart technology built-in, or the option for it, you don’t have to buy a new boat to benefit from connected boating.

A number of companies are now providing systems, including base, sensors and even in-person monitoring, which you can link to via an app on a smartphone or tablet. These can be installed in any existing boat, even older ones, and you can start benefiting from the connection right away.

Experience Connected Boating with a Smart Yacht From Van Isle Marina

Interested in upgrading to a connected yacht, or installing a smart system to enable your current vessel to be connected? The yacht sales team at Van Isle Marina will be glad to help identify and locate the right solution for your needs.

With complimentary Wi-Fi throughout our Sidney, BC Marina for moored boats and guests, keeping your smart systems connected is easy. 

For more information on purchasing a connected boat

Boat maintenance is a key part of keeping your boat seaworthy, safe and looking great. After all, there is nothing more enjoyable than cruising in a boat you know is in top-notch condition and is well protected from the corrosive elements of the ocean.

Saltwater, marine organisms and UV rays can all take their toll on your boat’s finish, integrity and performance, but regular maintenance can help retain the appearance and extend the life of your vessel.

While yacht care can be daunting, time-consuming and expensive, you don’t have to do it all yourself! Instead, make the most of the services and equipment available at Van Isle Marina’s World Class Yacht Park to keep annual maintenance chores manageable and effective.

Why Do I Need To Do Annual Maintenance on My Yacht?

Performance and fuel consumption can be adversely impacted when any part of the boat’s operating system – from its engine to its electrical systems or even its paint work – is not maintained.

Poor boat maintenance might mean a yacht that doesn’t run as fast, or an engine that vibrates, but there can also be serious malfunctions or expensive replacements, which no one wants.

Some care tasks are required after every trip, and some only need to be addressed annually. Annual boat maintenance tasks include:

• Mechanical check-ups
• Electrical system care
• Topside painting
• Fabric maintenance
• Waxing

For the purposes of this article we are focusing on the maintenance of the hull of the vessel, which includes:

• Antifouling painting and epoxy barrier coat prep
• Zinc replacement
• Running gear maintenance

Hull maintenance should be done as part of your annual haul-out, when other care tasks can be completed too. It is most important that these tasks are completed while your boat is out of the water so damage can be properly assessed and corrected before the next sailing season.

See Van Isle Marina’s ‘Boat Maintenance Checklist’ for a complete list of the boat maintenance requirements you should be addressing every year.

What is Hull Maintenance and Why is it Important?

Hull maintenance, or bottom side maintenance, is the maintenance of everything underneath the water line, from the running gear to the hull itself.

Since this part of your vessel spends most of its life underwater, it is susceptible to wear and deterioration due to salt and marine organisms like barnacles. Annual boat maintenance will clean away any grime, dirt and sea life, revitalize the running gear and provide protection for the coming year.

Hull and bottom side maintenance tasks include:

1. Antifouling bottom painting and epoxy barrier coat prepping

If your boat is in the water most of the time, antifouling bottom paint will need to be applied annually. These paints include biocides such as copper, which discourage barnacles and other aquatic organisms from attaching themselves to your hull.

Different types of paint are available. Look at your owner’s guide or talk to an expert at Van Isle Marina to determine which paint is best for your vessel:

Ablative, also known as self-polishing, paint gradually wears away to reveal fresh biocide as water moves against your boat. Great for yachts, which are taken out on the ocean regularly, but not recommended for boats that sit idle in the water for long periods.

Hard, or non-sloughing, paint creates a tough coating which releases biocide gradually. Ideal for fast boats as it won’t wear as quickly as ablative paint, but it will require removal before fresh paint can be applied.

Hybrid paint can hold up to fast speeds and repeated haul-outs while remaining smooth.

Epoxy barrier coat is a two-part paint that can be applied before bottom paint to fill any uneven spots and create better paint adhesion.

2. Changing zinc anodes

Zinc anodes, also known as sacrificial anodes, are installed on boats to protect the metal components of the boat itself from galvanic corrosion. This is an electrochemical process that happens when two different metals which are electronically contacted are submerged in water. Without zinc anodes (which corrode faster than other metals), propellers, shafts, rudders, drives and even the hull can be significantly damaged. Zinc anodes are placed in various locations on your boat and should be replaced at least annually.

3. Cleaning and polishing the running gear

Maintenance of running gear such as hull fittings, shafts, propellers, rudders, struts and intake grates is vital to protect the longevity of your yacht. When your boat is hauled out these should be cleaned, inspected and polished to prevent sluggish performance and engine vibrations.

Can I Get Help With My Hull Maintenance?

Although some of these maintenance tasks can be done by boat owners with some time and patience, there are a number of advantages to asking an expert to complete maintenance tasks.

• They have the experience to get a smooth finish on bottom paint – a rough paint finish can result in drag that impacts speed.
• The Yacht Park has the correct equipment and trained staff so tasks are done right the first time.
• You can save time compared to doing it yourself.

The Yacht Park at Van Isle Marina has a great team of experts available to help with haul-outs and bottom-side maintenance tasks. If you wish to complete some maintenance work yourself, the Yacht Park offers rental scaffolding and our dedicated staff can assist you with getting the products and equipment you require.

Van Isle Marina’s World Class Yacht Park Offers Premium Maintenance Services

At Van Isle Marina, our Yacht Park features a self-propelled haul-out trailer, which enables our staff to take care of everything without you even needing to be on site.

Yachts can be lifted and blocked, ready for the boat owner to complete scheduled maintenance work, or it can go directly onto the water treatment ramp, where our staff can pressure wash, scrape and sand before other maintenance begins.

Van Isle Marina’s Yacht Park crew would be pleased to assist you with your bottom-side services. For any other maintenance or repair tasks, our Yacht Park staff can offer a list of approved trades who are welcome to work on your vessel on site.

For more information about the Yacht Park, dry storage and maintenance services we offer, contact us today.

How to Keep Boating Throughout Winter

Winter boating is a growing hobby here on Vancouver Island. While many boaters choose to winterize their yachts, tuck them up on dry land and wait longingly for spring, it’s entirely possible to stay on the water throughout the winter months.

Boaters in the Pacific Northwest benefit from milder winters, which means we can take advantage of the quieter off-season. By boating in the winter months, you can enjoy visiting destinations like the San Juan Islands, Gulf Islands and Desolation Sound even more when there are fewer people around.

Weather and water conditions can be quite different in winter. To ensure you and your vessel stay safe and secure, please read through this winter boating and cruising checklist.

You may also want to read our Winter on the Boat – Tips and Tricks post for even more useful information.

Preparing Your Yacht for Winter Use

Before you start planning a boating trip this winter, make sure your yacht has been prepared to perform well in wintery conditions. 

Mechanical preparation

• Add antifreeze to the engine coolant and make sure it is fully topped up.
• Charge batteries. Engines need more charge to start when it is cold. Dead batteries are more susceptible to freezing, which destroys them.
• Fill the gas tank and add an ice-preventing stabilizer. 

Heating equipment

Engine-based heating will not be enough since it doesn’t provide heat when the engine is off. For winter boating, add an additional heat source such as:

• Electric space heater (use only if moored with electrical hookups to prevent battery drainage)
• Diesel space heater
• Diesel furnace
• Propane fireplace or heater

Insulate

• Install hull insulation
• Make or purchase window coverings with foam or extra insulation. Use when moored or anchored
• Add a cockpit tent to protect the topside from the elements. This also creates a space to hang wet clothing and towels

Equipment check 

Make sure you have the following equipment on board at all times, especially when enjoying winter boating.

• First aid kit
• Personal flotation devices and buoyancy aids
• Noise and light makers – whistle, bell, flares, flashlights
• A plastic snow shovel and a long-handled brush for sweeping ice from decks
• Ice-breaker in case your vessel gets iced in at the dock

What Should I Bring on a Winter Boat Trip?

In order to stay warm and comfortable on a winter boating or winter yacht trip, bring the following with you:

• Warm clothing (always bring spares)
• Long underwear
• Thick wool socks
• Shirts
• Warm or lined pants
• Fleece vest or hoodie
• Waterproof hooded jacket
• Knitted cap
• Gloves – full and fingerless sailing gloves
• Insulated boots or sturdy shoes with good non-slip grip

Food and Drink

• Plenty of warm drink options – coffee, tea, hot chocolate, broths
• Easy hot food, such as soups
• Granola bars and snacks in case heating food is not possible. Dehydrated and fresh fruits and vegetables are always good to have on hand, even for short trips

Linens (any linens not in use should be vacuum-packed to save space and prevent damp and mildew)

• Plenty of warm blankets 
• Bath and hand-sized towels
• Bedding, incl. pillow cases and extra sheets

What To Do Before Heading Out For a Winter Boating Trip

Do these things before every winter boating trip.

• • Check the weather
  • Check weather forecasts, such as the pacific marine weather forecast and US NOAA Pacific region weather maps
  • Check local VHF weather channels
  • Check local ocean buoy and lighthouse reports</span
  • Tell someone at home about your plans and your route before you head out
  • Check equipment is all working and charged – batteries, VHF radio, GPS
  • Fill water tanks
  • Learn about surviving in cold water

  Winter Boating – What To Do if Bad Weather Hits When You’re On The Water

  In winter, conditions can change extremely quickly out on the water. Be aware and be prepared.

  • Keep track of the weather
    • If you are in the path of an incoming storm or low-pressure system, get to the closest protected moorage. Either a dock, marina or sheltered bay and ride out the storm
    • Secure loose items above and below deck
  • Watch for ice on the water
    • Most fibreglass boats are able to push through up to 1 inch of ice without significant damage
    • Use an ice pick or an ice breaker if necessary
    • Aluminum hulls should not be taken through ice
  • Keep your deck ice-free
    • Use seawater and a brush to scrub ice from the deck
    • Use seawater to melt ice on railings, lines and hoses
  • Keep an eye on gas, water and battery levels – be aware of the location of your nearest open service facility

  When You Return From a Winter Boating Trip

  Prepping your boat as soon as you get back to the dock will protect your yacht between journeys and ensure it will be ready for your next trip.

  For boats hauled out of the water:

  • Drain water from the engine – run the engine for a few seconds, then move to the down position
  • Drain water tanks and water pumps
  • Add antifreeze to the engine
  • Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank
  • If stored outside, cover with a breathable cover
  • Charge batteries

  For boats kept in the water:

  • Keep fuel and water tanks topped up
  • Turn off the water pump and clear the lines to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting
  • Close all through-hull valves to prevent water from entering the hull
  • Tilt the outboard engine up and out of the water
  • Use desiccant material or a dehumidifier to prevent dampness
  • Use an engine compartment heater if the weather is predicted to drop below freezing
  • Cover the boat with a breathable cover to prevent mildew buildup
  • Charge batteries

  Dock Your Yacht at Van Isle Marina This Winter

  Want to boat more this winter? Van Isle Marina’s full service marina is open year-round so you can find all the services, equipment and assistance you need to keep boating through the winter.

  Our marina is conveniently located in Sidney, BC and we have water and electrical hook-ups available with moorage. Our fuel dock and pump out facilities remain open seven days a week throughout the winter.. Looking for a new yacht to go cruising with this winter and many years to come? Our experienced sales team here at Van Isle Marina can help you find what you are looking for and get you out on the water. Contact us for information on sales, moorage rates, dry storage and our marina facilities.