When purchasing a boat, most soon-to-be boat owners will focus on the type of boat and the functionality of the boat (e.g., “Will this model perform well in a lake?“). Some may even find themselves preoccupied with all the fun boating excursions that lie ahead.
However, a smart boat owner will ask themselves, “How long do boats last?” when making their purchase.
The lifespan of a boat will ultimately depend on a) how religiously maintenance is performed, b) the type of boat storage selected, as well as c) the quality of the boat itself and the parts used.
So if you are wondering how long boats last and how that average lifespan will impact the finances and logistics of your purchasing decision, here is everything you need to know.
How Long Do Boats Last?
A boat can last anywhere from a few years to 40 or more years. Modern boats can go through many boat owners before needing to be overhauled or refurbished. Boats that are used frequently will face much more wear and tear, but this can be combated with proper storage and maintenance.
When purchasing your new boat, base the boat’s longevity on your ability to care for it.
Factors Affecting Boat Lifespan
The average boat may have a lifespan of 20-30 years however every boat is different. Some of the factors affecting boat lifespan can include:
- Usage in saltwater vs. freshwater
- Maintenance practices
- Material selection
- Type of boat
- Boat engine type
Usage in Saltwater vs. Freshwater
A boat’s lifespan is significantly influenced by usage patterns, including exposure to saltwater and frequency of use. For instance, boats’ lifespan in saltwater generally ranges from 10-25 years, while freshwater boats tend to last between 15-30 years.
The effects of saltwater on different materials can lead to corrosion and other forms of damage, shortening a boat’s life span. Regular maintenance and proper storage, especially when not in use, can help mitigate these effects and prolong the boat’s lifespan.
Generally speaking, limiting the amount of time the boat spends in the water (be it saltwater or freshwater) will increase the lifespan. It’s best to find dry boat storage, especially when the boat is not being used often.
Maintenance Practices
Proper maintenance includes regular cleaning, inspecting, and repairing any damage or wear and tear. Maintaining a boat’s hull is particularly important, as it directly affects its visual appeal and overall performance.
Adhering to a maintenance schedule also helps the boat maintain its value. Investing time and effort into proper maintenance can help boat owners keep their vessels in top condition for extended enjoyment.
Material Selection
The choice of materials greatly influences a boat’s durability and lifespan. Some common materials utilized in boat construction include:
- Fiberglass: known for its strength and durability
- Aluminum: lightweight and resistant to corrosion
- Wood: traditional and aesthetically pleasing, but requires regular maintenance
- Steel: strong and durable, but can be prone to rust
Fiberglass Boats: Lifespan and Care
Lifespan Expectancy: 10-25 years
Fiberglass boats are a popular and durable option—with proper care and maintenance.
Fiberglass boats are available in various styles, including:
- Jet skis
- Ski boats
- Fishing boats
- Cabin cruisers
Fiberglass is a cost-effective and resilient material used in modern boat construction.
However, they may be susceptible to damage caused by exposure to UV rays, fatigue from motion, and saltwater.
Following specific maintenance guidelines and protecting the vessel from potential harm is key to ensuring the longevity and performance of a fiberglass boat.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
To keep your Fiberglass boat in great condition, follow these important tips:
- Clean regularly
- Consider UV protection
- Properly maintain gel coat
Aluminum Boats: Lifespan and Care
Lifespan Expectancy: 35+ years (Freshwater), 5-25 years (Saltwater)
Aluminum boats, often found as bass boats or jon boats, are:
- Lightweight
- Affordable options
- Have a lifespan that can rival fiberglass boats
- Known for their cost-effectiveness
- Have a low weight-to-strength ratio.
Although aluminum boats are corrosion-resistant, they may still require regular maintenance to address any potential issues and prolong their lifespan, especially if they are exposed to harsh conditions such as saltwater.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
To keep your Aluminum boat in great condition you may want to consider using it in fresh water, more than saltwater. To maintain the boat properly:
- Clean regularly
- Paint often
- Corrosion prevention
- Remove salt after use
- Inspect for rust and manage accordingly
Wooden Boats: Lifespan and Care
Lifespan Expectancy: 10-30 years
Wooden boats offer a classic aesthetic, but require more maintenance than other materials, Maintenance requirements for wooden boats are often more demanding due to wood’s susceptibility to rot and decay, as well as damage from fasteners.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
Wooden boats require a lot of maintenance. It’s just a matter of time before you experience UV damage, salt damage, or general wear on your wood boat.
- Inspect wood boats monthly to look for damage
- Seal the wood to protect it from damage
- Make repairs quickly
- Fill cracks and sand rough patches when needed
Steel Boats: Lifespan and Care
Lifespan Expectancy: 25-75 years
A steel boat is well known for its commercial applications, thanks to its durability and longevity.
Steel boats are also:
- Known for their strength and resistance to warping, deformation, and bending
- Require consistent maintenance to prevent corrosion
However, corrosion is the primary challenge associated with steel boats, and owners must take appropriate measures to maintain their vessels and extend their lifespan.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
To maintain steel boats you will want to :
- Clean and paint regularly
- Avoid corrosion by sanding, chipping, scraping, grinding and refinishing
- Clean salt when possible
Boat Engine Lifespan
The lifespan of a boat engine varies depending on the type of engine and the quality of maintenance it receives. Just like any other part of your boat, proper care and maintenance of the engine is a step toward a longer lifespan.
Gasoline Engines (About 1500 Hours)
Gasoline engines typically last for about 1,500 hours before requiring significant maintenance or replacement. Factors such as the type of fuel used, the quality of the fuel, and the maintenance regimen all influence the lifespan of a gasoline engine. Overall boat maintenance procedures should always include the engine.
Diesel Engines (Up to 5000 Hours)
Diesel engines, on the other hand, can last up to 5,000 hours with proper maintenance. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspections, can significantly prolong engine life. The quality of the fuel used in a diesel engine will impact lifespan.
Signs Your Boat Needs Replacement
Whether you are dealing with small recreational boats, deck boats, jet boats, or large cruisers, there are tell-tale signs that a boat needs to be replaced. Some of these include:
- Extensive damage
- The need for frequent repairs
- Unusual vibrations, such as shaking or wobbling
- Visible smoke or steam
- A burning smell emitting from the engine
Boat Depreciation Over Time
Boats, just like cars, tend to lose value over time.
On average, boats typically depreciate at a rate of 10-15% in the first year, 20-30% by the fifth year, and 30-40% by the tenth year. Talk to an accountant or a boat dealer if you have specific questions about boat depreciation.
Summary
The expected lifespan of your boat is largely dependent on how much time you invest to keep your boat in great condition.
A crucial component of responsible boat maintenance is storing your boat in a safe environment to limit the amount of UV damage from the sun. Use Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage solution to find convenient, safe, and cost-effective storage for your boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered old for a boat?
A boat is considered old if it is more than 25 years old.
Is a 50-year-old fiberglass boat safe?
Considering the fact that with proper care and maintenance fiberglass boats can last upwards of 50 years, a 50-year-old fiberglass boat is certainly safe.
What type of boat lasts the longest?
Aluminum and wood boats are renowned for their durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, an aluminum boat can last up to 30-40 years, while a wooden boat can have an even longer lifespan if properly cared for.
Do fiberglass boats wear out?
Fiberglass boats do eventually wear out due to regular wear and tear, but with proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.
