WOODEN BOAT

SAILBOATS

Owning a sailboat is like having a piece of freedom at your fingertips. But freedom requires responsibility. Sailboats, especially in the unique environment of Lake Tahoe, need care, attention, and a solid maintenance routine. You love the way your sailboat glides across the crystal-clear water, but do you know what it takes to keep it in top shape? Let’s talk about five questions every sailboat owner should be asking.

Tahoe Runabout Co. is here with the answers, so your sailboat stays looking as good as it sails. Ready to dive in?

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OUR SERVICES

We can take on projects of any scale, and our restorations help boats which have been damaged or neglected get a second chance to shine.

Whether your entire boat is painted or just has accent colors, we can make it look its best and apply protective coatings to protect the paint and the boat.

Varnish is key for a wooden boat to stand the test of time, and when it’s applied by an expert it can greatly enhance the aesthetics of the vessel as well.

You want to turn heads every time you take the water, and our detailing services can ensure your boat always looks best and is comfortable to ride in.

No boat owner wants to replace part of their vessel, but our team has the expertise and equipment to replace bottom effectively and efficiently.

Annual Inspection

Having experts look over the condition of your boat regularly, correct any issues and apply the right varnish can keep it performing well for years to come.

FAQs

How Often Should I Inspect My Sailboat?

Sailboat inspections aren’t optional. They’re your first line of defense against costly repairs and dangerous breakdowns. At a minimum, you should be inspecting your boat every six months—spring and fall, no exceptions. Why? The conditions of Lake Tahoe can be brutal, especially when it comes to wear and tear on your boat’s hull, rigging, and sails.

Don’t skip out on the small stuff either. A thorough inspection means going beyond just what you can see. Think about the wiring, plumbing, and even the less visible parts of your engine. Because when you’re 10 miles from shore, you don’t want to find out something was missed.

What Are the Best Practices for Varnish Care?

Varnish isn’t just for looks—it’s your boat’s armor. It protects your wood from the sun, salt, and moisture that can eat away at it over time. Here’s the deal: your varnish needs love too. Annual touch-ups are essential, and a full re-varnish every two to three years is recommended.

Apply a minimum of 8 to 12 coats for the best protection, and always sand between layers to ensure a smooth, even finish. But don’t just slap it on. The process requires patience. Let each coat cure fully before adding the next. Otherwise, you’ll trap moisture, and you’ll be looking at peeling and cracks down the line. Is it time-consuming? Absolutely. But it’s worth it.

How Can I Prevent Hull Damage?

The hull is your boat’s backbone, and protecting it is non-negotiable. Here’s where you get proactive. First, always clean your hull after every sail. Lake Tahoe’s fresh water may seem harmless, but algae and grime build up quickly. A quick rinse can save you a world of trouble down the line.

Next, invest in a quality bottom paint designed for fresh water. Tahoe Runabout Co. recommends an ablative paint that wears off slowly, ensuring long-term protection from the lake’s elements. Reapply every 12-18 months. Finally, store your boat properly. A well-fitted cover and appropriate cradling can prevent hull warping or cracking when not in use. Think your hull is invincible? Think again.

What’s the Right Way to Store a Sailboat?

How you store your sailboat matters—big time. Leaving your boat exposed to the elements all year round is a fast track to expensive repairs. So, what’s the best method? Ideally, indoor storage is king. But if that’s not an option, invest in a high-quality tarp that’s UV-resistant and waterproof.

Remove sails and rigging to prevent unnecessary stress on your mast and lines. And if winter hits hard in Lake Tahoe, consider shrink-wrapping your boat to keep out moisture and snow. Even better, haul it out of the water when the season ends. Waterline damage from sitting in the lake all winter? That’s a headache you don’t need.

How Do I Maintain Sailboat Rigging?

Rigging might seem like a simple setup of lines and wires, but trust me, it’s crucial to sailing smoothly and safely. First, inspect your rigging regularly—every time before setting sail. Look for signs of wear like fraying, corrosion, or loose fittings. And don’t just eyeball it—run your hands over the cables to check for hidden damage.

Lubricate all moving parts like pulleys, winches, and blocks at least once a season to ensure everything moves freely. Remember, your rigging is under constant tension. Neglecting it can lead to catastrophic failures mid-sail, and that’s not something you want to experience when the wind is up, and you’re pushing through a perfect Lake Tahoe day.

Sailboat maintenance isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment in keeping your vessel ready for whatever adventure the water brings. With Tahoe Runabout Co., you’re not just getting maintenance tips, but real solutions from people who love boats as much as you do. Need help with an inspection, varnishing, or rigging repair? We’re here.

READY to launch your next project?