Spring Commissioning Checklist for Victoria Boaters

Spring is when Victoria's harbours come alive again. Before you head out for the first time, run through this list. Most of it takes a day or less if you stay on top of it.

Below the waterline

Hull cleaning — even with slow winter growth, you'll have some fouling to remove. Start the season clean.

Check your zincs — if they're more than half depleted, swap them now. Don't start the season with marginal protection.

Inspect through-hulls — make sure valves operate freely. A seized through-hull valve is a safety issue.

Check the prop and shaft — look for fishing line or rope, prop damage, and shaft play.

Look at your rudder — any unusual play or damage?

Running gear and systems

Run the engine and check for overheating, strange noises, or leaks.

Test your bilge pump — and the backup.

Check raw water strainer and replace impeller if it's been a year.

Test all electronics — VHF, chartplotter, depth sounder, AIS if equipped.

Check your steering system for smooth operation.

Safety gear

Check flare expiry dates. Expired flares are not just non-compliant — they might not work.

Test your fire extinguishers. Check the gauge and inspection date.

Inspect life jackets for damage and proper fit.

Make sure your first aid kit is stocked and nothing is expired.

Want us to handle the underwater part?

We can do a full underwater spring check — hull clean, zinc inspection and replacement, prop and through-hull check, and give you a video of your hull condition. It's a good way to start the season knowing exactly what's going on down there.

Call (778) 535-4506 to book a spring commissioning dive.