Your boat might not be experiencing any mechanical problems right now, but having a good boat mechanic on-call will ensure that your boat is always in proper working condition.
The last thing you want is for your boat to give out on you right before a day out on the water, only to realise that you don’t have access to a mechanic when you need it the most. Having a good boat mechanic who you can rely on and trust is an invaluable resource.
There are a number of things to keep in mind when searching for an experienced boat mechanic, and we have compiled a quick checklist to help you with this task.
What Do Boat Mechanics Do?
Boat engines vastly differ from car engines, meaning you can’t just bring your boat anywhere for repairs. Instead, you will need to find a specialised boat mechanic who can carry out routine and preventative maintenance on your boat. Many boat repair tasks are extremely specialised and they can be challenging, and it is wise to leave these to the experts to protect the value of your nautical investment.
Preventative maintenance is also crucial for boat owners. A good boat mechanic can ensure that your boat’s engine is always in tip top working condition, and they can also winterise your boat when needed.
Always Ask About Qualifications
If you are on the lookout for a boat mechanic, remember to always ask for their qualifications and experience. A good mechanic will always be happy to display their certifications and endorsements, and they would be only too pleased to showcase their experience.
You should also consider enquiring about any local certifications they might hold to ensure that they are fully qualified to complete a wide array of boat repairs.
Ask About Wait Times
If you have an urgent issue with your boat, finding a good boat mechanic during the boating season could feel like an impossible task, as they may have long wait times. To avoid having to compromise quality over speed in case of an emergency, it is essential that you prioritise finding and getting to know a qualified and reliable boat mechanic as in the offseason and conduct maintenance before it’s time to hit the water. Building a good relationship with a boat mechanic means that they will more likely be able to help you at short notice should you need it, as well.
Check Reviews
Very few boat mechanics carry a robust online presence, therefore, finding online reviews for local mechanics could prove to be a tricky task.
However, boating forums and social media boating groups in your local area are an excellent starting point. On these platforms you will often find others who have utilised the services of particular mechanics, and you will soon be able to discern who the good ones are. You might even be able to find past conversations about a specific mechanic’s work before you commit to entrust your boat to someone you have never met before.
What Boats Do They Work On?
When you are searching online for the ideal boat mechanic, make sure that you take a look at what boats they work on most frequently. Some mechanics might specialise in particular areas such as smaller boats, while others may specialise in larger boats and yachts.
Some mechanics may also be more familiar with specific kinds of engines. Don’t be afraid to ask a new mechanic whether they are familiar with the particular engine your boat has.
While many of the inner components of boats are similar, you should find a mechanic who has the skill set to work on your specific boat. No matter how much wider experience someone has working on boats, it is always important to check whether they are knowledgeable about your vessel.
Keep in mind that the more specialised boat you have, the more specialised servicing it will require to maintain it. If you have a boat with complicated electronic equipment, you need to ensure that your mechanic has the qualifications to handle both the electronics and the mechanical side of things, or can refer you to a colleague that they trust.
We Offer Professional Service And Support For All Your Boating Needs
There is potentially a lot to consider when it comes to keeping your boat in top shape and performing well. Whether you want advice about the best hardware to suit your needs or simply a safe berth to rest your vessel, you can trust us at Corleone Marinas to be on your side!
Located in some of Sydney Harbour’s most prestigious sites from Elizabeth Bay to Long Island (and more!), we offer the full range of marina services, including shipwrights and mechanics with years of experience in the trade. Contact us today for all your marina needs!
