There is a particular pleasure in preparing a boat for the first outing of the year.
The cover comes off, the days are getting longer and the familiar smell of the marina begins to suggest that summer isn’t far away.
After several months of storage, even a well-maintained RIB deserves a careful inspection before returning to the water.
The aim isn’t simply to make the boat look presentable. It’s to confirm that the engine, tubes, electrical systems, controls and safety equipment are ready for use.
A little preparation at the beginning of the season can prevent inconvenient problems during the first trip.
Begin with a careful inspection
Before starting the engine or launching the boat, take time to inspect its general condition.
Look for damage that may have developed during storage.
Check the hull, tubes, deck, fittings and visible equipment.
Pay attention to areas where moisture may have collected or where covers and supports may have caused rubbing.
If the boat was stored outdoors, inspect for storm damage or other signs of exposure.
A systematic inspection is more useful than immediately concentrating on cleaning and polishing.
Check the inflatable tubes
Inspect the fabric, seams, valves, rubbing strakes and attachment patches.
Check pressure using the manufacturer’s recommended procedure, allowing for temperature.
Look for signs of leakage or damage.
If a tube has lost pressure during storage, investigate the cause rather than simply inflating it repeatedly.
Use appropriate cleaning products and avoid unnecessary abrasion.
(Internal link: How to Look After Your RIB Tubes.)
Inspect the hull and transom
Examine the hull for cracks, impact marks or other damage.
Check the keel, chines and visible structural areas.
Pay particular attention to the transom and engine mounting area.
Look for loose fittings, damaged sealant or signs of movement.
Cosmetic wear may be harmless, but structural concerns should be assessed before the boat is used.
Prepare the engine
Engine recommissioning should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Depending on the model and storage procedure, this may involve fluid checks, inspection of the fuel system, cooling-system checks and scheduled servicing.
Do not assume that an engine is ready simply because it starts.
A qualified technician can perform any required maintenance and assess problems that developed during storage.
The first engine test should take place using an appropriate procedure and cooling-water arrangement.
Never run an outboard dry or use an improvised test method.
Batteries and electrical equipment
Check battery condition and connections.
Confirm that charging arrangements are functioning as intended.
Test essential equipment, including navigation lights, instruments, pumps and communication systems.
If the boat has a chartplotter, review its operation and ensure that the required chart information is available.
Check any relevant software or chart updates using the equipment manufacturer’s guidance.
Avoid discovering an electrical problem for the first time after leaving the marina.
Steering and controls
Operate the steering and engine controls according to the manufacturer’s procedures.
Look for stiffness, excessive play, leakage or unusual behaviour.
Inspect accessible hoses, cables and fittings.
Any concern affecting steering or propulsion control should be resolved before the boat is launched or operated.
Check safety equipment
Review the safety equipment appropriate for the boat, operating area and passengers.
Inspect personal flotation equipment for condition and suitability.
Check applicable expiry dates and service requirements for emergency equipment.
Confirm that communication devices are operational and that the crew understands their use.
Safety requirements vary by jurisdiction, so consult the relevant local guidance.
Review the trailer or mooring arrangements
If the RIB is trailer-launched, inspect the trailer before towing.
Check tyres, bearings, brakes where fitted, lights, securing equipment and the general condition of the frame.
If the boat is kept in a marina, inspect mooring lines, fenders and other arrangements.
A boat may be mechanically ready while its transport or mooring equipment is not.
Reorganise the equipment
Over winter, equipment often gets moved, stored separately or replaced.
Before the first outing, return everything to appropriate locations.
Secure loose items, check storage compartments and confirm that safety equipment remains accessible.
Review any new accessories and make sure they are installed and functioning correctly.
A clean, organised deck makes the first trip more enjoyable and helps reduce unnecessary distractions.
Plan a sensible first outing
The first trip of the season doesn’t need to be ambitious.
Choose suitable weather, familiar waters and a manageable route.
Allow time to check how the engine, steering, instruments and other equipment behave underway.
A short shakedown outing can reveal problems before a longer family trip or coastal passage.
Remain close enough to appropriate assistance and shelter for the conditions and the boat’s situation.
A pre-season checklist
| Area | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Tubes | Condition, pressure, valves and seams |
| Hull | Visible damage, fittings and transom |
| Engine | Required servicing and correct operation |
| Fuel | Condition and system integrity |
| Batteries | Charge, connections and system function |
| Electronics | Displays, navigation, communication and lights |
| Steering | Smooth operation and no visible faults |
| Safety equipment | Condition, suitability and service dates |
| Trailer or mooring | Safe and serviceable arrangements |
| Equipment | Correct storage and securing |
| First outing | Suitable conditions and manageable route |
The season starts before you leave the marina
A successful boating season begins with a boat that’s ready to use.
Take time to inspect the important systems, complete the required servicing and resolve problems before they interrupt an outing.
Then choose a pleasant day, invite the right company and head out for that first cruise.
After all the preparation, the reward is wonderfully simple.
You’re back on the water.