Caring for bottom that is docked

[Patbrogan]

We have had our boat in the water now a month in Pittsburgh Ca. Where there is both salt and fresh water. We have about 10 feet of algae growing on the bottom! I tried to power wash it off from dock and think I can put it on trailer to clean...how do I best handle this? I thought it would take months to start to get dirty! Suggestions?

 

[BudGates]

I've read about race boats that scrub the bottom using a long narrow piece of carpet with one person at each end but it sounds as though the growth may be too far for that. The only other two methods I know of that work are:

#1. Haul the boat out on the trailer for cleaning (as you already mentioned).
#2. Use a snorkel and mask and dive under the boat. This may require a wetsuit depending on water temps.

Depending on the type of growth, scrubbing may be as easy as using a sponge or it may require scraping with a putty knife.

 

[MrBill_FLL]

Don't let it dry!

take it out and power wash right away. if it dries you may need to sand.

 

[Doc_holiday]

Don't let it dry! take it out and power wash right away. if it dries you may need to sand.

+1 there. If it dries, you will be working a lot harder.

Try sailing it off!