Boat Detailing FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Here are answers to the most common questions we get from boat owners in Tampa Bay. If you do not see your question here, call us at 813-356-8035 or send a text. We are happy to help.
General Questions
What does a full boat detail include?
A full boat detail typically includes an exterior wash and decontamination, machine buffing and polishing of the gelcoat, sealant or wax application, vinyl seat cleaning and conditioning, compartment wipe-down, and a final inspection. The exact scope depends on your boat’s condition and the service package you choose.
How long does it take to detail a boat?
A basic deep cleaning takes 2 to 4 hours depending on size. A Buff and Shine restoration takes 4 to 8 hours. Full Restoration with wet-sanding can take 1 to 3 days for larger boats. We give you a time estimate with every quote.
Do I need to bring my boat to you?
No. We are a fully mobile service. We come to your dock, marina, boat lift, or trailer anywhere in the Tampa Bay area. You do not need to move your boat.
Do I need to be there during the service?
No. Many of our customers give us marina or dock access and we handle everything. We send photos when the job is complete.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 1 to 2 weeks in advance during our busy season (February through May). During slower months, we can often accommodate same-week or next-day appointments.
Pricing Questions
How much does boat detailing cost?
Pricing depends on your boat’s size, condition, and the service you need. Our Buff and Shine starts at $80 per foot for a full boat or $50 per foot for topside only. Deep cleaning starts at $30 per foot. We provide free, no-obligation quotes based on photos of your boat.
Do you charge extra for travel?
No. There is no travel charge anywhere in our Tampa Bay service area, which covers all of Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept credit cards, debit cards, Zelle, Venmo, and cash. Payment is collected after the service is complete.
Do you offer maintenance plans?
Yes. Our Captain’s Wash program is a monthly maintenance service at $7 per foot. It keeps your boat clean and protected between major details.
Services Questions
What is the difference between Buff and Shine and Full Restoration?
Buff and Shine ($80/ft) uses machine compound and polish to remove light to moderate oxidation and restore gloss. Full Restoration ($250/ft) involves wet-sanding with progressively finer grits to remove heavy oxidation, deep scratches, and severe chalking. Most boats only need a Buff and Shine, and we will tell you honestly which one your boat needs.
What is ceramic coating and is it worth it?
Marine ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to your boat’s surface that bonds chemically with the gelcoat. It provides UV protection, hydrophobic water repellency, and makes the boat much easier to clean. Our ceramic coating lasts 2+ years and comes with a warranty. For boats kept in Florida sun, it is one of the best investments you can make.
Can you remove heavy oxidation from my boat?
Yes. We handle everything from mild chalking (Buff and Shine) to severely oxidized hulls that look completely faded (Full Restoration). Send us photos and we will tell you exactly what your boat needs and what results to expect.
Do you detail the interior of boats?
Yes. Our deep cleaning service includes vinyl seat cleaning and conditioning, carpet shampooing, compartment cleaning, mold and mildew treatment, and general interior detailing.
Do you offer teak restoration?
Yes. We clean, sand, and restore teak decks, rails, and trim. We also offer teak sealing to protect the wood from Florida’s sun and moisture. See our teak restoration page for details.
Do you clean boat engines?
Yes. Our engine room detailing service includes degreasing, cleaning, and dressing the engine compartment. This is especially popular before boat shows, surveys, and sales.
Can you polish stainless steel and aluminum on my boat?
Yes. Our brightwork and metal polishing service restores stainless steel rails, aluminum trim, and other metal components to a mirror finish.
Florida-Specific Questions
How often should I detail my boat in Florida?
In Florida’s intense UV and saltwater environment, we recommend a full detail (Buff and Shine or better) at least once a year, with monthly wash maintenance in between. Boats kept in the water full-time benefit from quarterly deep cleans. Read our full guide on detailing frequency.
How do I prevent mold on my boat seats?
Keep seats dry, improve ventilation, clean seats monthly with a marine vinyl cleaner, and apply a vinyl protectant with UV and mold inhibitors. For persistent mold problems, professional treatment is the fastest solution. See our mold prevention guide.
Is ceramic coating worth it in Florida?
Absolutely. Florida’s UV index is among the highest in the country, and ceramic coating provides the strongest UV protection available for gelcoat. It also makes saltwater rinsing more effective and reduces how often you need to wax.
Do you detail boats during hurricane season?
Yes, we work year-round. During hurricane season (June through November), we also offer pre-storm preparation services and post-storm cleaning and assessment.
Booking and Process
How do I get a quote?
The fastest way is to call or text us at 813-356-8035 with a few photos of your boat. We will reply with a detailed estimate, usually the same day. You can also fill out the form on our contact page.
What areas do you service?
We service all of Tampa Bay including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa, Madeira Beach, Treasure Island, Apollo Beach, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Gulfport, Tierra Verde, Indian Rocks Beach, St. Pete Beach, Palm Harbor, Largo, Davis Islands, Seminole, Belleair, Ruskin, Palmetto, Redington Beach, South Tampa, and everywhere in between.
Are you registered and insured?
Yes. Sunrise Marine Detailing is a registered LLC in the state of Florida and carries full liability insurance.
What products do you use?
We use professional-grade marine products including Starke marine compound and polish, marine-specific ceramic coatings, marine vinyl cleaners and protectants, and boat-safe wash solutions. We do not use automotive products on boats.
What if it rains on my scheduled day?
If rain is in the forecast, we will reach out to reschedule. We do not perform exterior detailing in the rain as it affects the quality of the finish. We reschedule at no additional cost.
Can you work on boats in dry storage or on trailers?
Yes. We work on boats at docks, marinas, boat lifts, dry storage facilities, and on trailers at your home. If we can access the boat, we can detail it.
