With Spring and Summer around the corner, it’s hard to think about making future plans without thinking of the health and safety of our loved ones. One safe activity you can participate in is boating, which will feed your itch to get outside and keep you 6-feet apart from anyone you’re not in quarantine with. 

Another option is to prepare your boat for warmer weather! While in quarantine, many are taking advantage of this newly obtained free time to do a project around the house. I bet the Pinterest DIY boards have never been busier. Why not do the same for your boat? Is there a maintenance task you’ve been putting off? Maybe a stereo you’ve always wanted to install. Whatever the project, now is the time to get it done.

Here are some possible boat DIY projects to occupy your time in quarantine.

Helm Panel Installation

You can redesign your boat’s dashboard to include the latest marine electronics available.

Supplies Needed:

• Starboard marine lumber
• Masking tape
• Pencil
• Oval-head bolts with washers and locknuts
• Saw with fine-tooth blade
• Power drills
• Screwdriver
• Wrench set
• Router
• Silicone sealant

Skill Level: 3.5/5

Time Needed: 6 hours

TurboSwing Installation

You can improve watersport capabilities for outboard power boats with a TurboSwing.

Supplies Needed:

• TurboSwing, including hoop, brackets, mounting hardware, pulley, and eye bolts
• Power drill
• Wrench set
• Polyurethane sealant

 Skill Level: 1/5

Time Needed: 2 hours

Boat Security System Installation

You can install a boat security system that will ensure security aboard your vessel by providing a monitoring system.

Supplies Needed:

• Anti-theft system
• Smartphone or tablet
• Power for second battery
• Ring connectors
• Sensors
• Drill motor
• Screwdriver
• Heat gun
• Diagonal cutters, wire stripper, crimping tool

Skill Level: 1.5/5

Time Needed: 2 hours

Marine Stereo Installation 

You can install a Bluetooth, satellite marine stereo system. 

Supplies Needed:

• Marine source unit
• Marine amplifier
• Marine duplex speaker wire
• Marine-grade cable
• Terminal connecters
• Diagonal cutters
• Heat gun
• Drill motor and bits
• Jigsaw
• Screwdriver

Skill Level: 4/5

Time Needed: 12 hours

Outboard Paint Job

You can paint your outboard with a Quantum 2K kit.  

Supplies Needed:

• Multiple grit sandpaper
• Rubber gloves
• Ventilator
• Protective glasses
• Aluminum foil
• Denatured alcohol
• Degreaser
• Heat gun
• Orbital buffer
• Tool kit

Skill Level: 3/5

Time Needed: 12 hours

Apply Boat Decals

You can apply boat decals like a professional all from home. 

Supplies Needed:

• Vinyl boat decals
• Squeegee
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber towels
• Tape measure
• Grease pencil
• Masking tape
• Scissors

Skill Level: 4/5

Time Needed: 2 hours