Essential Yacht Maintenance Tips: Insights from the Expert

YachtWay

Oct 10, 2023 — 7 min read

Introduction:

In an exclusive interview with Sebastian from Pardo Yachts Miami Service Center, we delve into the intricacies of yacht maintenance and explore how it differs from traditional car service. Sebastian shares his insights into the unique challenges of yacht maintenance and offers valuable advice for yacht owners and potential buyers.

The Complexity of Yacht Maintenance:

Yachts often incorporate components from various manufacturers. How does this diversity impact the maintenance process?

“The maintenance process of a yacht is akin to providing maintenance for an entire house. On top of that, consider that it is constantly being tossed around in corrosive seawater. You have dozens of systems manufactured by different companies and suppliers, and sometimes these systems are dependent on each other. Furthermore, the installation of these systems is unique to the yacht manufacturer, since the same AC system on a Pershing 70 and a Pardo 50 require a totally different installation process. The result is a complex web of components that require different service expertise, parts and maintenance, plus knowledge of that particular yacht manufacturer and installation procedures.”

Challenges of Dealing with Multiple Manufacturers:

Can you share any challenges you’ve faced due to having to deal with parts and systems from different manufacturers? Are there compatibility issues that arise?

“One of the complexities of yacht servicing is that you must develop relationships with each of the manufacturer’s that provide systems onboard so that you can acquire parts, technical expertise or instruction manuals and schematics. These relationships might be with the manufacturer’s headquarters but are often with the local certified technicians and are an essential part of a dealership’s ability to provide quick and efficient service. Each manufacturer will usually only work with their own system, so when it comes to compatibility issues, you are often on your own or you may work with the original yacht manufacturer who ultimately decided to install the systems together. Local know-how from contractors and, frankly, experience, will help determine if you can make two independent systems work together or if you are better off in the long term replacing for one complete or compatible system.”

Variability in Component Maintenance:

Are there any particular components or brands that are notably easier or more difficult to service and maintain?

“Much like yachting brands themselves, the manufacturer’s of components and systems differentiate themselves often more so by the service they provide then the product itself. The best manufacturer’s have locally available parts, local expertise, and are easy to get in touch with. No system is flawless, but when something goes wrong the most important thing is that the repair doesn’t render you boatless for very long.”

Integration of Multiple Manufacturers’ Components:

For potential yacht buyers, what should they be aware of regarding the integration of multiple manufacturers’ components in their vessel?

“The most important integration of components on your yacht is between your engines and displays. You should ensure that the systems being used are generally regarded as well compatible in the industry (For example, Volvo + Garmin or Mercury + Simrad). As much as possible, you should ensure that both systems have received maintenance as frequently as the manufacturer recommends and that only certified technicians have made repairs or connections, if any. This is most important for engines + screens but also relevant for yacht control systems like POCO, which centralizes lighting and AC systems on one screen.”

Yacht Maintenance vs. Vehicle Maintenance:

How would you describe the unique challenges of yacht maintenance compared to traditional vehicle maintenance?

“Vehicles are a one-stop-shop. Your local dealer receives the parts and expertise directly from the manufacturer with specifications on exactly how to complete repair steps, the parts required, even the time it should take. The most important differentiator that is worth remembering is that the largest boat manufacturer in the world makes about .1% of the volume that Ford makes of cars in a given year (5% of what Ferrari makes in a year, if you prefer that comparison). It is on a completely different scale. You are purchasing a ‘craft’ handmade engineering system that understandably requires more tender loving care than your mass-produced automobile.”

Recommended Maintenance Frequency:

How often do you recommend yacht owners get their vessels serviced? Is this frequency different from cars?

“Please don’t treat your yacht like a car. Remember, this is a handmade isolated engineering system that gets shuffled around saltwater all year long. Depending on frequency of use and the components of your boat, you should be servicing your boat quarterly as a benchmark. That means engines, checking all AC and electrical or mechanical components, making sure that sacrificial anodes are not being consumed too rapidly, among others. Ideally, you or a trusted captain are reviewing oil and other fluid levels before every use, and simply being ‘alert’ to the other systems on board that get heavy use, like freshwater pumps, AC systems, and more.”

Common Maintenance Issues Due to Saltwater Exposure:

Can you share a few examples of the most common maintenance issues yacht owners face due to saltwater exposure?

“There are roughly two types of maintenance you’ll be completing on your yacht: cosmetic and mechanical. In the cosmetic department, salt causes corrosion on everything. Don’t lose sight of the effects of sunlight, either. On a weekly basis, if not monthly, you should be protecting your yacht from salt and sun by using covers for cushions and windows, waxing and polishing exterior paint and metals, and generally removing saltwater immediately after use. In the mechanical department, salt is going to jam things up and prevent movement. That’s a bummer because your boat is filled with pumps that spin, gas shocks that push and actuators that pull. You should prevent salt from contacting these components when possible, always make sure they are properly lubricated, and in the case of high use items like saltwater pumps, make sure you are following the frequent recommended maintenance and replacement of parts.”

The Impact of Inactivity on Yachts:

We often hear that not using a yacht can lead to more issues. Can you elaborate on this? How does inactivity impact a yacht’s condition?

“Saltwater has the tendency to ‘jam’ things up. Like the ice that forms on the exterior of your car in the winter, the longer you wait, the worse it gets. Frequently making sure systems are working, spinning and running normally will prevent the build up or corrosion that could eventually stop movement altogether. The most frequent issue we see with watermakers is that the saltwater pump locks up completely because the pump sat motionless for months with saltwater inside.”

Yacht Size and Maintenance Needs:

How does yacht size influence the type and frequency of maintenance required?

“Roughly speaking, the larger the yacht the more systems it will have and the larger they are. More moving parts and stronger forces at play means more maintenance! Your bike requires less complex maintenance than your car, right? The same goes for cosmetics. A 100 foot yacht has far more surface area exposed to the sun and environment than a 25 footer.”

Client Requests and Maintenance Needs:

Are there any particular client requests or maintenance needs that have stood out to you over the years?

“Unfortunately, the most notable ones are the requests that DON’T come in! We have some clients that we practically BEG to bring their boat in for service since we know they need it!”

Critical Components to Prioritize:

What are the most critical components of a yacht that owners should pay special attention to?

“On the cosmetic side, paint. Paint should be waxed and polished frequently and, when possible, shaded from the sun. The elements can be harsh on paint, and by the time you notice the cracks, burns, or blemishes, it’s too late… Mechanically speaking, you’ll want to prioritize the most expensive and important systems on board – your engines! Invest in service and maintenance by well-trained technicians, and these machines last a long time. If you cut corners, though, it’ll show!”

Advice for Potential Yacht Buyers:

For someone considering buying a yacht, what advice would you give about the importance of regular maintenance?

“Much more so than a car, having the right maintenance plan and support is as important as the yacht brand you choose. Make sure you will be supported by your dealership and service center throughout the lifetime of your purchase. A good service center develops a relationship with you.”

Importance of Dealership Maintenance Support:

Lastly, how does the maintenance support from dealerships like yours help ensure a yacht’s longevity and optimal performance?

“Simply put, you can tell immediately if a yacht doesn’t receive the tender loving care that it needs. The first to show are the cosmetic details, but the mechanical ones won’t be far behind. A beautiful, functional yacht that holds its value implies proactive maintenance and a strong relationship with a service center nearby.”

In conclusion, yacht maintenance is a multifaceted endeavor, encompassing both cosmetic and mechanical aspects. Proper care is essential to preserve the beauty and functionality of these luxurious vessels. Sebastian’s insights highlight the importance of prioritizing maintenance, especially for critical components like engines and paint. Whether you’re a seasoned yacht owner or considering your first purchase, his advice underscores the significance of regular upkeep and the support provided by reputable service centers. Ultimately, a well-maintained yacht promises years of enjoyable and trouble-free cruising on the open seas.