A Spring Checklist for Boat Owners (aka: Captains of Their Dreams)
Winter’s coming to an end. The ice is melting, seagulls are enthusiastically squawking again, and you’re staring longingly at the calendar thinking: “When’s launch day already?!”
But before you put on your captain’s hat and proudly fire up the engine (or press the whisper-quiet start button on your electric boat, like the CANNA One), it’s time to get a few things in order.
Don’t worry – you’re not doing this alone. Here’s your trusty, slightly humorous but fully serious…
Pre-Season Checklist: Your Boat Will Thank You
1. Wake Her Up from Hibernation
(The boat, not your spouse – she or he has different priorities.)
Step one: remove the boat cover or take her out of the hangar. If she’s been under a tarp all winter – check whether a cat, marten, or ambitious raccoon family has moved in. Yes, it happens.
2. Hull Inspection – Not Just for Perfectionists
Take a good look from all sides. Search for:
- Cracks,
- Scratches,
- Deposits or discoloration,
- Unexpected party stickers you don’t remember.
If anything needs fixing – don’t call it “character.” Better now than in the middle of the lake.
3. Cleaning – Not Just for Fresh-Scent Fans
Spring is deep-cleaning time:
- Outside: water, mild soap, a soft brush, and a touch of love.
- Inside: vacuum, air out storage lockers, toss out those winter chips that seem to have developed a personality.
Wooden deck? Check the oil finish. Synthetic materials? Skip the harsh chemicals – unless you want your cockpit to look like scorched lettuce.
4. Battery – Is It Still Alive? 🔋
In electric boats (like the CANNA One), the battery is the heart. Check:
- Charge level,
- Connections (no corrosion?),
- Charging cable (has your kid borrowed it for the scooter?).
Run a test: if nothing powers up – don’t panic. You might not need to go back to paddles just yet. Could just be a fuse!
5. Engine (If It’s Combustion)
If you’re still using a combustion engine:
- Change the oil,
- Check spark plugs,
- Look at the filters.
Then ask yourself: is it time for an electric upgrade? 😉
With CANNA One, you can skip the fumes, the oil, and that “dirty romance” altogether.
6. Safety Gear – Not Just for Show
Inspect your:
- Life jackets (still have straps and not smelling like an old inflatable?),
- First aid kit (not expired in 2018?),
- Fire extinguisher (hint: not a thermos),
- Light and sound signals.
Accidents don’t happen… until they do. Better safe than starring in a viral video.
7. Navigation, Electronics & Gadgets
Got a depth finder? Bluetooth speaker? Tablet with maps?
Check if everything’s working – and that no update has mysteriously teleported your boat to Albania.
8. Spare Gear, Tools, Dock Line – Stuff You Miss When It’s Gone
Always have:
- A full set of ropes,
- Fenders,
- Basic tools,
- Repair tape (because tape can fix more than most manuals).
9. Registrations, Insurance, Paperwork – Boring but Essential
Check whether:
- Your boat is registered,
- Insurance is valid,
- You have your license (if needed),
- Marina fees aren’t 3 seasons overdue.
10. First Trip Plan – and Cold Drinks in the Cooler 🍹
Finally, the best part: plan your route, call your friends, and toss some lemonade (or something stronger – for the passengers!) into the fridge.
Then go. The season is yours.
⚓ CANNA Boats – Ready for Every Season
Our boats – like the CANNA One or CANNA Unity – are designed with ease of use and modern solutions in mind. Less prep time = more time to enjoy.
Because let’s be honest: you didn’t buy a boat to clean it – you bought it to feel free and sail away.
