Dinghy Bottom treatments

[Dan Mapes]

So we are getting a new dink and we will be towing it. It's too much for the davit we have and no way we are going to install a new one. In fact, this one may go up for sale at some point.

The dealer does not like bottom paint at all, and discourages the use. Are there any thoughts or references out there?

 

[gbharrington]

I used an anti fouling ablative on the fiberglass portions of my dinghy bottom last winter and had no growth during my 4 month mini loop of south FL. I did not paint any of the inflatable parts and did have quite a bit of algae and some hard growth on the wet sections.

So, from my experience, I recommend painting the bottom.

 

[bobk]

I wonder why the dealer doesn't like bottom paint?? Is this Hypalon or PVC? Perhaps some of the paint solvents dissolve the glue? If so, there are some new water-based AF paints out there.

Bobk

 

[Beckytek]

If your going to leave it in the water, you better paint it, otherwise you'll be sorry.