I: Introduction
I started restoring a classic fiberglass boat about a year ago, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. I’m not a master builder, but I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’ve come up with a few tips that will help make restoring a fiberglass boat a fun experience.
II: Why do it?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned during these past few months is something I didn’t expect: The joy of restoring an older fiberglass boat — and the resulting sense of satisfaction I get from sailing it. Even more than that watching my family and friends enjoy the boat fills me with a sense of pride.
I’ve always loved boats, but I didn’t realize how much until I fixed one and started using it. It’s opened up my world in so many ways. It’s given me a chance to show my family and friends a new perspective on life. When you see the sun rise and set on the water, it changes you.
III: Boat restoration tips
1. Keep it simple at first. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the number of options. The best thing to do is to start small. Remove old rotted material, take out a seat or two, change some light bulbs. Whatever you are comfortable with.
2. Try not to reinvent the wheel. Make sure it floats. Make sure it runs/sails. Make sure the basic electrical systems work and then ensure the bilge pump works. After that, the rest is up to you.
3. Play to your strengths. If you have a great eye, be sure to use it. Do what you are good at and hire others for the stuff you aren't. Can you design and 3d print custom parts? Are you better at the mechanical stuff? Find what you like doing and enjoy the work.
4. Use the Internet — The web is filled with forums, blogs, and videos about how others have solved the same problems you will encounter. Use all the resources. Search for inspiration and be ready to change your mind a lot.
5. Make it your own. don't be afraid to be creative and ignore the naysayers
It's your boat and it's your imagination. Pick paint you love, horns and lights you love. Install beds and chairs you love. Fill it with stuff you love. Make it the boat of your dreams. Maybe you dream of a simple camp-like boat or a megayacht-like boat. Bling it out however you like. Also simple cheap LED string lights can go an mighty long way :)
IV: Conclusion
Bringing all these thoughts together, remember restoring an older boat can get you on the water, show you more beauty in the world, help you and your loved ones escape the busy life and it can be a great adventure while costing pennies compared to buying a new boat.
May the wind at your back never be your own.
David Sullivan
2022
