Antifouling vs Traditional Hauling: Which is Better for Your Boat?
What is antifouling paint?
Antifouling paint, also known as anti-vegetative paint, is a special coating applied to a boat’s hull to prevent marine organisms from attaching to it. These paints contain biocidal agents that are slowly released into the water, creating a barrier that stops marine life from growing on the hull.
Advantages:
- Reduces friction and improves the boat’s performance.
- Lowers fuel consumption.
- Prevents structural damage caused by fouling.
- Some eco-friendly versions no longer contain heavy metals.
Disadvantages:
- Requires periodic reapplication (every 1 or 2 years).
- May release pollutants into the marine environment if the wrong product is used.
- Needs specific technical conditions for application (sanding, priming, drying).
What does traditional hull maintenance consist of?
Hull cleaning is the manual or mechanical process of cleaning the hull, which involves scraping, sanding, and polishing to remove dirt and attached organisms. It does not include the application of antifouling products, although it can be combined with them if desired.
Advantages:
- Provides an immediate and eco-friendly solution (when done without chemicals).
- Ideal for boats that sail infrequently or are stored out of the water.
- Allows for a full visual inspection of the hull and any damage.
Disadvantages:
- Does not prevent future fouling.
- Requires more time and labour if done frequently.
- Does not improve the boat’s hydrodynamic performance.
Comparison by type of vessel and use
Frequent recreational boats
Boats that spend a lot of time moored
If you use your boat regularly during the boating season, especially for weekly outings or long trips, antifouling paint is almost essential. This protection prevents the accumulation of marine organisms such as algae, barnacles, or slime, which not only affect the hull’s appearance but also increase resistance, reducing speed and raising fuel consumption. In addition, applying antifouling annually can extend the lifespan of the hull and submerged components. It is an investment that results in better performance, greater efficiency, and lower mechanical maintenance in the medium term.
For boats that remain moored for long periods in marinas, docks, or buoys—even without sailing—antifouling is also highly recommended. Still water encourages marine life to attach in a very short time. In these conditions, a simple superficial hull cleaning performed occasionally may not be enough to remove deeply or firmly attached fouling, and it may even be necessary to scrape manually or use more aggressive tools, potentially damaging the gelcoat or base paint. Therefore, antifouling acts as a passive but constant barrier that protects the hull even when the boat is not in use.
Boats that are stored out of the water
In the case of boats that are stored out of the water—in trailers, hangars, or dry docks—contact with the marine environment is limited or nonexistent for months. This includes jet skis, small boats, or seasonal vessels that are fully hauled out after use. In these cases, traditional hull cleaning is more than enough to keep the hull in good condition. A thorough cleaning after each season, along with a visual inspection and occasional polishing, prevents buildup and preserves the material. In this scenario, antifouling paint can represent an unnecessary expense, both financially and environmentally.
Small or recreational boats
For kayaks, small sailing boats, Zodiacs, or sports boats that are used occasionally or for short periods, contact with water is minimal and intermittent. In this case, the best option is to choose simpler maintenance, such as occasional hull cleaning. This can be done after each outing or periodically, using specific cleaning products without the need to apply antifouling paint. Furthermore, many of these vessels do not have a suitable surface for effective antifouling application, and their design is intended to minimize the retention of marine debris. This option is not only more economical but also more environmentally friendly, as it avoids the release of biocides or heavy metals.
Associated costs
- Antifouling: The cost includes the paint, labor for hull preparation (sanding, priming, application), and haul-out time. Although more expensive in the short term, it can be offset by fuel savings.
- Hull cleaning: It is usually cheaper if done manually or occasionally, but it may require more frequent haul-outs if not combined with other protective measures.
Choose according to your sailing style
Both solutions are valid, but each meets different needs. If you prioritize performance, efficiency, and sail regularly, antifouling paint is your best ally. If you use your boat infrequently and store it out of the water, hull cleaning may be enough to keep the hull clean without chemicals.
At Barcelona Nautic Center, we can help you determine the best type of protection for your boat. Whether you need to renew the antifouling or perform a full hull cleaning, our team is ready to advise you and provide the best service.