Maintaining the finish
Rory Marshall discusses the ever changing world of looking after yacht paint, and explains that experience isn’t always enough
After inspecting and advising on the coatings of hundreds of superyacht projects over the past 25 years, one thing becomes clear: paint-related issues can arise at many stages of a yacht’s life. Some originate during construction or refit, while others develop later during operational service through maintenance practices, cleaning products and environmental exposure.
A yacht’s paint finish is one of its defining visual elements. Deep gloss, clear reflections and flawless topsides contribute enormously to how a vessel is perceived whether alongside in Monaco or arriving in St Barths. Maintaining that finish has become increasingly complex as coating systems have evolved.
Within the yachting industry, much of the practical knowledge surrounding paint care is passed informally from one crew member to the next. Deck teams gain experience through daily washing, polishing and occasional repairs, and many captains develop a strong practical understanding of maintaining a yacht’s appearance.
However, modern yacht coatings are no longer simple paint layers. They are engineered multi-layer systems consisting of primers, fairing compounds, build coats and high-gloss topcoats designed to perform under demanding marine conditions.
Alongside these systems, a wide range of cleaning, maintenance and surface protection products have entered the market. These products are widely available and actively promoted within the industry but are typically developed independently of the original paint systems applied during construction or refit.
Small operational decisions can have unexpected consequences, particularly as modern coating systems have become more sensitive than those used in the past.
WHEN A REPAIR BECOMES MORE VISIBLE THAN THE PROBLEM
One of the most common situations occurs when a small defect is identified during routine cleaning or inspection. The natural instinct is to repair it immediately. The area is sanded locally, re-coated and polished.
Technically, the defect disappears. But on large high-gloss surfaces something else can happen: the repair itself becomes visible. Even when colour and gloss levels match, micro-variations in film build, sanding pattern or curing behaviour can subtly change how light reflects across the surface. In strong sunlight the repaired area may appear as a faint halo or shift in reflection.
In some cases, the repair process itself introduces more visible variation than the original defect. Knowing when to repair – and when to leave a surface undisturbed – often requires careful judgement and experience.
CLEANING PRODUCTS MATTER MORE THAN MANY REALISE
Many long-term paint issues can be caused by everyday cleaning practices. Deck soaps and general-purpose cleaners are often selected based on availability, cost or crew familiarity rather than compatibility with yacht topcoats.
Over time, aggressive or highly alkaline products can affect surface chemistry, reduce gloss levels or leave visible residues. Even simple detergent residues can become highly visible under sunlight, creating the impression of staining or paint degradation when the coating itself remains intact. Most paint manufacturers therefore recommend the use of pH-neutral cleaning products designed specifically for painted surfaces.
EXPERIENCE SUPPORTED BY EXPERTISE
Captains and deck crews carry significant responsibility for maintaining the appearance of their vessels. Paint specialists are not there to replace that experience, but to support it when decisions become more technical.
Because on a superyacht, the smallest details often make the biggest difference.
Newmar Overseas Consulting was founded by Rory Marshall in 1999, and over the past 25 years, the expertise developed in surveying and marine coating means that Newmar is one of the true leaders in their sector.
For more details visit www.newmaroverseas.com
