Rinse hull, deck, and hardware after every trip

Salt crystals act like sandpaper under sun load and stain porous gelcoat within days.

Book professional help More Cleaning & Detailing tips

Why this matters

Salt crystals act like sandpaper under sun load and stain porous gelcoat within days.

No regrets: A five-minute rinse at the dock beats a weekend of compounding later.

When DIY is not enough

When stains don't rinse off, oxidation is visible, or the hull feels chalky, a premium detail restores gloss and applies UV protection — DIY compounding on large hulls often makes it worse.

DIY steps

Fresh-water rinse hull, transom, T-top, and cleats while surfaces are still wet.
Pay attention to hinge points, rub rail, and under gunwales where salt hides.
Use a soft brush on non-skid — stiff bristles micro-scratch the pattern.
Dry chamois or blower on hardware if you store on a lift exposed to sun.

Related FTM services

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Rather have a pro handle it?

Full Throttle Marine comes to your dock in Tampa Bay and on the First Coast. Flat-rate quoted before we arrive. Yamaha and Mercury outboard specialists — no trailers, no waiting rooms.

Book a service call Call 941-479-0589

Common questions

Rinse hull, deck, and hardware after every trip

Salt crystals act like sandpaper under sun load and stain porous gelcoat within days. A five-minute rinse at the dock beats a weekend of compounding later.

When should I call a professional instead?

When stains don't rinse off, oxidation is visible, or the hull feels chalky, a premium detail restores gloss and applies UV protection — DIY compounding on large hulls often makes it worse.