Boat Detailing Prices

Boat detailing is a thorough process that includes cleaning, polishing, and waxing various parts of your vessel — such as the fibreglass hull and superstructure, gelcoat, stainless steel rails and fittings, canvas covers, and teak flooring.

Detailing plays a key role in preserving your boat’s value and condition. It protects against the damaging effects of salt, UV rays, and grime, preventing wear and tear on surfaces like gelcoat, upholstery, stainless steel and teak. Regular detailing ensures your boat not only looks great but remains durable, efficient, and ready for use.

The frequency of detailing depends on how often your boat is used and its exposure to the elements. A full cut and polish once or twice a year is usually sufficient for most boats to protect against UV damage. However, boats that are used frequently or left exposed may need more regular attention. Scheduling professional washes every two weeks can keep your boat in top condition with minimal effort.

For aluminium boats, using the right cleaner is key. A good marine aluminium cleaner will remove water stains and the dull, chalky look caused by oxidation — without damaging the surface.

Most of these cleaners contain acid, so it’s important to wear gloves and eye protection. Start scrubbing from the bottom and work your way up in small sections. Don’t let the cleaner dry on the surface; rinse it off as you go.

To help prevent oxidation, give your boat a quick rinse with fresh water every few weeks, especially after use.

If you’ve got a fibreglass boat, regular rinsing is one of the easiest ways to keep the gelcoat looking fresh. If it’s stored outdoors, hosing it down every week or so helps prevent buildup. After using your boat in saltwater, always rinse it thoroughly with fresh water.

Avoid using metal hose nozzles — they can crack the gelcoat if accidentally dropped. Only use boat soap when the surface is visibly dirty, as overusing soap can strip away protective wax.

When washing, rinse your cloth regularly or switch it out to avoid scratching the surface. Once clean, dry the boat with a chamois or squeegee, then buff it with a soft cloth to restore the glossy shine.

Boat cleaning isn’t just about the hull — caring for the finer details matters too.

• Wood (like teak): Start with a teak cleaner to lift stains, then apply teak oil to protect it from sun and salt damage.

• Metal (stainless steel or aluminium): Use the appropriate polish to remove stains and prevent rust. Be sure you're using a product suited to the specific type of metal on your boat.

• Seats (vinyl or marine upholstery): Wipe down after each trip, especially if exposed to sunscreen, salt, or dirt. Use a vinyl-safe cleaner, and avoid products with bleach, ammonia, or alcohol — they can dry out and crack the material. Pay extra attention to seams and edges where grime collects.

• Carpets: Spot clean regularly and deep clean occasionally to keep them looking and smelling fresh.

• Mould and mildew: These often appear on canvas or in damp corners. Use a mildew remover that targets the spores — not just the stains — to stop it from coming back.

Boat polishing isn’t one-size-fits-all — every vessel is different. Factors like sun exposure, oxidation, and surface wear all affect the level of work needed. Requesting a quote takes the guesswork out and gives you a clear idea of what’s involved and what it might cost.

When you request a quote, we take into account:

• Your boat’s size and overall condition

• The level of cut and polish required

• Any additional detailing services needed

• Whether the boat is brought to us or serviced on location

This way, you get an accurate and tailored estimate — no surprises.

Depending on your needs, your boat polish quote may include a variety of services, such as:

• Full exterior wash and polish

• Cut and polish to restore shine and remove oxidation

• Wax coating for added protection

• Interior detailing and cleaning

• Regular maintenance service options

These are just some of the services we offer. If your boat needs something more specific, just let us know — we’re happy to customise the quote to suit your vessel.