If you own a sailboat, then you must know that barnacles are a nightmare for any boater. These hard-shelled crustaceans can accumulate on your hull and stick to it like glue, which is not only an eyesore but can also slow down your boat’s performance.
Fortunately, there is a method to remove barnacles from a sailboat hull when you’re in the middle of the ocean. While you can’t clean your hull thoroughly as you would in a boatyard, the following tips can help you get rid of the barnacles until you can get into port.
1. Use a Scraper
The first option is to use a scraper or a putty knife to remove the barnacles. This process is quite messy as you’ll need to stand in the water to reach the hull’s underside. Take a scraper and gently scrape away the barnacles. You have to be careful not to scratch the hull during this process. It’s advisable to wear gloves as the barnacles can be sharp and painful.
2. Use a Brush
Another way to remove barnacles from your boat’s hull is to use a stiff-bristled brush. You need to be in the water to use this method as it works best if you can scrub the barnacles off while the boat is moving slowly backward. A long-handled brush will help you reach the bottom of the hull. Gently scrub the barnacles off, and they’ll fall off as the boat moves forward.
3. Use Vinegar
If scraping and brushing don’t work, you can try using vinegar. Vinegar has acetic acid, which burns away the barnacles. Pour vinegar in a bucket and apply it on the hull with a sponge. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrape the barnacles off. This method is more effective if you use hot vinegar.
4. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural way to remove barnacles from a sailboat hull. Mix baking soda with water and apply it on the hull with a sponge. Let it sit for an hour or two, and then scrub the barnacles off with a brush. This method is not as effective as vinegar, but it’s gentle on the hull.
Barnacles are an unwanted nuisance for all sailboat owners. While you can’t completely avoid them, you can mitigate their effects by regularly cleaning your hull. If you’re in the middle of the ocean and need to remove barnacles, use the above methods until you can get into port for a more thorough cleaning. Remember to be gentle and careful when cleaning your hull to avoid any damage to your boat.