Introduction
Tenders are often the unsung heroes of boating. They’re essential for getting to shore, exploring shallow waters, or simply enjoying a quick ride around the harbor. However, leaving your tender floating in the water for too long can lead to some serious problems. While it may seem convenient to leave it tied up, doing so can cost you more time, money, and effort in the long run.
Hull Trouble: Marine Growth
Leaving your tender in the water means it’s at the mercy of the sea, and the sea doesn’t always play nice. One of the biggest issues is marine growth. Over time, algae, barnacles, and other marine organisms start to attach themselves to the tender’s hull. It’s like nature’s version of littering—except this ‘litter’ slows down your tender, makes it harder to steer, and even increases fuel consumption. Plus, it looks unsightly.
And if you think a quick scrub will do the trick, think again. Once marine growth takes hold, it can be tough to remove, and if left unchecked, it can actually eat into the hull, causing permanent damage.
Engine Wear: Saltwater’s Corrosive Touch
Your tender’s engine is designed to withstand water, but it’s not invincible. Prolonged exposure to saltwater can wreak havoc on the engine. Corrosion starts to set in, particularly in areas that are hard to see. Salt and minerals build up in the engine’s cooling system, and before you know it, your engine is running rough, overheating, or worse—failing altogether.
Even if the engine isn’t submerged, simply sitting in salty, humid air can cause rust to form on metal parts. Over time, this rust can cause parts to weaken or fail, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Performance Problems: Slow and Sluggish
If your tender has been sitting in the water for a while, you’ll notice a difference the next time you take it for a spin. It may feel sluggish, slower, or harder to control. That’s because marine growth on the hull creates extra drag, making it harder for your tender to cut through the water smoothly. You’ll also notice your fuel usage goes up, which means more trips to the gas station and less time on the water.
Beyond the hull, engine troubles caused by water exposure can lead to a reduction in power and efficiency. Your tender might struggle to accelerate or even stall when you need it most.
Accessory Damage: Sun and Water Wear
It’s not just the hull and engine that suffer when your tender stays in the water too long. The ropes, cleats, bumpers, and other accessories also take a beating. Constant exposure to the elements, especially the sun and water, weakens these materials over time. Ropes become frayed, cleats rust, and bumpers lose their ability to protect your boat properly. These are small things you might not notice until they break, leaving you in a tight spot when you least expect it.
Risk of Sinking: A Silent Threat
One of the biggest risks of leaving your tender in the water for extended periods is that it can slowly start to take on water. Whether it’s from a minor leak, rain, or poor drainage, water can begin to accumulate inside the tender. If you’re not keeping a close eye on it, you could find yourself returning to a half-submerged—or even fully sunk—tender.
This is especially a risk during stormy weather or rough waters, where rain and waves can quickly fill the boat. Keeping your tender out of the water when it’s not in use is the best way to avoid this worst-case scenario.
The Smart Move: Store Your Tender Properly
To avoid all these potential headaches, the solution is simple: don’t leave your tender in the water when you don’t need it. Whether it’s pulling it up onto the dock, using a davit to lift it, or storing it onshore, keeping your tender out of the water when it’s not in use will significantly extend its life. You’ll avoid hull damage, engine trouble, and all the other issues that come with prolonged exposure to water.
Conclusion
While leaving your tender in the water might seem convenient, it’s not worth the damage it can cause over time. From marine growth on the hull to engine wear and accessory deterioration, your tender faces many risks just sitting in the water. Storing it properly when not in use is the best way to protect your investment and ensure your tender is always ready for your next adventure.