So you’re about to enjoy your first bareboat charter in the Caribbean. You own a powerboat back home and can’t wait to try your hand at a Caribbean yacht charter vacation. If you practice the same mechanical checks on your bareboat charter yacht that you do on your own boat, chances are you’ll be in for a hassle-free adventure.
The best advice we can offer a motoryacht bareboat charter client is this – perform a daily engine check – even if the engine was running well yesterday!
Here’s a step-by-step engine maintenance guide to follow during your Caribbean yacht charter odyssey:
Before starting your boat:
Engine compartment: Take a quick look – make sure the bilge is clear. Look for oil or water leaks, look for loose wires, and make sure all belts are ok.
Raw water inlet: Valve should be open and the strainer clear.
Fuel filter: Use a transparent filter and check for water or dirt. Drain off if needed.
Engine oil refill: Check with the dipstick. Fill if low, but take care not to overfill.
Checking bareboat engine
Ready to Start:
Switch over to starting battery. Start the engine with the gearbox in neutral, and run at medium revs to warm up.
Check the cooling water: Is it running from exhaust?
Look at the instrument panel: make sure batteries are charging, and check the oil pressure.
While running:
Check the stern gland twice a day for leaks. Tighten the grease filter (if fitted) as needed.
Gearbox oil: Check periodically when the engine is running and warm. Remember to top up with gearbox oil, not engine oil.
These daily maintenance tips can prevent costly time delays during your vacation. Now get out there and have some fun!