Hull Cleaning

Hull cleaning done right with reporting that keeps you informed and worry free

The Benefits of Hull Cleaning

Hull cleaning is essential for maintaining a boat’s performance, efficiency, and longevity. Over time, marine growth like algae and barnacles builds up on the hull, increasing drag and reducing fuel efficiency. Even a thin layer of slime can force engines to work harder, driving up fuel costs and wear on the vessel.

Regular cleaning helps preserve protective coatings such as anti-fouling paint, preventing damage to the hull's surface. Ignoring buildup can lead to costly repairs and more frequent repainting. Clean hulls also improve handling and speed, making the boat safer and more responsive, especially in challenging conditions.

Environmental protection is another key reason. Fouled hulls can carry invasive species between waterways, harming local ecosystems. Routine cleaning helps prevent this and supports compliance with environmental regulations.

In addition to performance and environmental benefits, a clean hull looks better and helps maintain the vessel’s value. For charter or tourism businesses, it also reflects professionalism and care.

In short, hull cleaning is a smart, preventative measure that protects your boat, saves money, enhances safety, and supports marine conservation. Regular upkeep ensures you get the best performance and value from your investment.

Dive Into Our Cleaning Process

Effective Cleaning
We use the least abrasive yet highly effective methods to protect and extend the life of your boat’s antifouling and metal coatings.

Attention to Detail
A thorough inspection of all underwater components is an essential part of every hull cleaning to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Proper Equipment
Our team relies on high-quality gear that is regularly maintained and inspected to guarantee safety and top performance.

Appropriate Tools
We always select the right tools for each task to deliver a comprehensive and efficient cleaning without causing damage.

Photo Documentation
Any damage or concerns found during cleaning are carefully documented with photos and promptly shared with you for peace of mind.

Monthly Reports
After every hull cleaning, you’ll receive a detailed report summarizing the work completed and the condition of your vessel.

“Sam provides the most reliable and cost effective treatment for your boat that is in the water. He has been cleaning my boat for over 2 years and in fact cleans most of the boats in my community. Terrific service.”

-Jeff Lynn, Sea Fox 288 Center Console

From Bow to Stern, We Clean It All

  • Props, Shafts and Thrusters

    Propellers, shafts, and thrusters are all vital components in the propulsion of vessels. Propellers convert rotational motion into thrust, pushing the vehicle through the water or air. Shafts transmit this rotational power from the engine to the propeller. Thrusters, often used in conjunction with propellers, provide additional maneuverability, particularly in tight spaces or at low speeds. 

  • Trim Tabs, Rudders and Stabilizers

    Trim tabs, rudders, and stabilizers are all important parts that contribute to a boat’s handling and performance. Trim tabs are adjustable plates on the transom that help control the boat's running attitude and balance. Rudders are the primary steering mechanism, directing the boat's movement through the water. Stabilizers, which can be either fixed or active, help reduce rolling motion and improve stability. 

  • Thru-hulls, Intakes and Exhausts

    Trim tabs, rudders, and stabilizers are all important pieces in a boat’s plumbing system, facilitating the flow of water in and out of a vessel. Trim tabs are adjustable plates on the transom that help control the boat's running attitude and balance. Rudders are the primary steering mechanism, directing the boat's movement through the water. Stabilizers, which can be either fixed or active, help reduce rolling motion and improve stability. 

  • Outboards and Specialty Drives

    Outboard, outdrives, Zeus drives, IPS drives, and Arneson drives are all types of marine propulsion systems. Outboards are mounted on the transom, while outdrives are stern-drives attached to an inboard engine. Zeus and IPS drives are pod drives, with Zeus being a product of Cummins/Mercruiser and IPS being from Volvo Penta. Arneson drives are surface-piercing drives known for their efficiency. 

  • Transducers, Lights, Cameras

    Transducers are a fundamental part of sonar systems. They convert electrical pulses into sound waves (acoustic energy) and transmit these into the water. When these sound waves reflect off objects (like the bottom, fish, or submerged structures), the transducer receives the returning echoes and converts them back into electrical signals. Underwater boat lights illuminate the water around and beneath your vessel. Underwater boat cameras allow you to visually observe the underwater environment.

  • Waterline and Bootstripe

    The waterline on a boat is the line where the hull meets the surface of the water. The boot stripe is a decorative stripe, typically a few inches above the waterline, that adds a visual element and can make the boat appear longer. It also serves as a boundary between the anti-fouling paint below and the topside paint above.

Types of Marine Fouling

Oysters on boat trim tab

Hard Growth
Includes stubborn marine organisms such as barnacles, oysters, clams, mussels, tube worms, and coral. These hard-shell creatures attach firmly to the hull, causing drag and potentially damaging coatings if not removed regularly.

Soft Growth
Comprises softer marine life like algae, sea sponges, and river grass. While less damaging than hard growth, this accumulation still reduces vessel speed and efficiency and can promote further fouling.

Non-Marine Fouling
Consists of man-made and natural debris such as mud, oil residue, plastic waste, rope, and fishing line. These materials can entangle propellers, clog intakes, and degrade overall boat performance if left unchecked.

Marine Fouling Gallery

Barnacles on keel

Barnacles on keel

Anemones on hull

Anemones on hull

Large oysters on shaft

Large oysters on shaft

Through hull packed with barnacles

Through hull packed with barnacles

Soft tube worms on hull

Soft tube worms on hull

Transducer covered in barnacles

Transducer covered in barnacles

Engine intake strainer covered in hard tube worms

Engine intake strainer covered in hard tube worms

Shaft strut covered in hard and soft growth

Shaft strut covered in hard and soft growth

Oysters inside exhaust

Oysters inside exhaust

Our Service Areas

Need Underwater Service?

Contact Us Today.

We handle hull cleanings, propeller swaps, anode replacements, inspections, and recovery dives. If it needs attention below the waterline, we’re ready to get it done. Call, text, or send a message to schedule.