As temperatures rise, so does the excitement for tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and endless afternoons on the lake or coast. But before you load up your gear and invite your crew, your boat needs to be more than just clean—it needs to be dialed in for performance, safety, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or gearing up for your first summer of high-speed water sports, the right preparation helps prevent boat damage, keeps everyone safe, and ensures smooth sailing all season long.
Check Your Engine and Propulsion System
Power Comes First
Before you even think about towing anyone, give your engine a full inspection. Look for worn belts, cracked hoses, or oil and fuel leaks. Check your spark plugs and top off your fluids—especially engine oil and coolant if applicable.
Then, check your propeller. Dings and debris can create serious vibration issues or even cause boat damage during high-speed runs. Remove the prop and make sure there’s no fishing line or weeds wrapped around the shaft.
A smooth-running engine and a clean prop mean more power, less noise, and better fuel efficiency—key for long days of towing.
Prep the Tow Gear and Safety Equipment
Lines, Life Jackets, and Lookouts
Every sport has its tools—and every boat needs the right gear to do it safely.
Here’s what to double-check:
- Tow ropes: Inspect for frays or weakened spots. Replace if needed.
- Tow points: Make sure cleats or towers are secure and free from rust or stress cracks.
- Life jackets: You’ll need a Coast Guard-approved life vest for every person onboard—and extra high-impact vests for skiers and riders.
- Spotter: If you’re towing, designate a spotter to watch the rider and communicate with the driver.
And remember—every boat involved in towing must have a wide-angle mirror or a second person onboard to act as the observer. It’s not just good practice—it’s Florida law.
Clean and Inspect the Hull
Smooth Surfaces Make a Big Difference
A dirty hull isn’t just unsightly—it creates drag. That slows you down and increases fuel use, especially when towing. Give your boat a deep clean, and inspect the bottom for blisters, cracks, or chipped paint.
Any soft spots or visible damage should be addressed immediately. Ignoring early signs of wear could lead to more serious boat damage after repeated stress from water sports.
Stock Up on Summer Essentials
Be Prepared for Long Days on the Water
Summer sports mean extended hours on the boat, so stock up on more than just gas. Consider packing:
- Extra water and sunblock
- Waterproof storage for phones and keys
- A small tool kit
- A dry towel stash
- Waterproof first aid kit
- Emergency whistle or horn
Also check that your horn, lights, and bilge pump are working correctly. When you’re out on open water, being prepared makes all the difference.
Protect Your Boat Between Trips with Boat Lift Covers
Water sports are a blast, but they’re hard on your boat. Gear gets thrown on deck, seats get wet, and everything takes a little more impact than usual. When you dock for the day, the last thing your boat needs is sun, rain, or bird droppings adding to the stress.
Boat lift covers are one of the best ways to prevent long-term boat damage between outings. They protect against UV exposure, debris, and weather, keeping your interior and exterior in top shape all summer long.
At Waterway, we design high-performance boat lift covers built to handle Florida’s harsh climate and fast-paced boating lifestyles. It’s not just about covering your boat—it’s about extending its life and preserving its performance.
Get the Most Out of Summer
Summer water sports are what boating is all about—speed, laughter, adrenaline, and memories. But before the fun begins, taking the time to prep your boat properly helps ensure everything runs smoothly.
From engine checks to safety gear, hull maintenance to protective boat lift covers, each step you take before the season starts helps prevent unnecessary boat damage and makes for a better experience on the water.
Want help finding the perfect lift cover for your setup? We’re here to help you protect what matters most.
Let’s make this your best boating season yet!
