MARINE CRAFT - Blog

Bonding System Failures on Older Boats: How to Spot Corrosion Problems Before They Sink You

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Broken bonding wire.

A recent service call took our ABYC Master Technicians aboard a boat where the owner was concerned about their bonding system. What we found is unfortunately very common on vessels 10, 15, or 20+ years old.

The bonding system had been properly installed years ago and was originally doing its job of protecting underwater metals from galvanic corrosion. However, many of the connections had been terminated with standard nylon connectors and no adhesive-lined heat shrink. Over time, saltwater migrated up the wire strands, causing severe corrosion, increased resistance, and eventual failure of the bonding circuit.

This is a classic failure mode on older boats. The original installation met the standards of its time, but without proper sealing and maintenance, the system degrades.

How to Test Your Bonding System.

ABYC E-11 recommends that the DC bonding system maintain low resistance to provide an effective path for galvanic currents. A simple and effective field test is:

Set your multimeter to the Ohms (Ω) scale.
Place one probe on a bonded underwater fitting (through-hull, shaft, rudder, etc.).
Place the other probe on the main DC negative bus or grounding bar.
You should read 1.0 ohm or less on a properly functioning bonding system.

Readings significantly above 1.0 ohm usually indicate corroded connections, undersized wire, or broken conductors. This test is quick, requires only long test leads, and should be part of any annual inspection.

For a more complete picture, technicians use a silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) reference electrode. This tool measures the actual corrosion potential of the hull and underwater metals.

According to industry best practices a properly protected boat typically shows hull potentials in a specific protective range depending on the build type of the vessel. Readings that are too positive can indicate insufficient anodic protection, while readings that are too negative may point to over-protection or stray current issues.

Reference electrode testing is especially valuable when:

Anodes are depleting too quickly or not at all
You suspect marina shore power problems
You want to verify whether your bonding system is actually working as designed

Warning Signs of a Failing Bonding System

Many owners overlook early indicators until serious damage occurs:

Green or white corrosion blooming on bronze through-hulls or fittings
Anodes wasting away much faster than normal (or barely wasting at all)
Rudder or propeller showing pitting or dezincification
Electrical gremlins that appear only when plugged into shore power
Stray current corrosion on one side of the boat or near a specific fitting

By the time a bronze through-hull starts leaking or a propeller is significantly eroded, the repair cost is often much higher than preventive maintenance would have been.

Corrosion is constant on any boat in saltwater. The most effective defense is a well-designed and properly maintained bonding system combined with regular testing.

ABYC-aligned recommendations include:

Using adhesive-lined heat shrink connectors on all bonding connections (far superior to nylon connectors)
Annual visual inspection of all bonding wires and connections
Periodic resistance testing with a multimeter (target ≤ 1.0 ohm)
Reference electrode testing when more detailed diagnostics are needed
Proper sizing and placement of sacrificial anodes
Ensuring the bonding system is connected to the DC negative system per ABYC E-11 and E-2 guidelines

Need Help Checking Your Boat? If you’re concerned about corrosion, anodes, or your bonding system — especially on an older vessel — don’t wait for a failure. The ABYC-certified technicians at Marine Craft can perform a thorough electrical and corrosion protection inspection using multimeters, reference electrodes, and ABYC standards.
Call us today at 252-571-9980 to schedule an inspection.

We’ll see you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I test my boat’s bonding system?

ABYC recommends annual inspections of the bonding and cathodic protection system. A quick multimeter resistance test can be done by the owner, while a full reference electrode test is best performed by an ABYC-certified technician.

What resistance reading should I see on a healthy bonding system?

According to ABYC E-11 best practices, you should see 1.0 ohm or less between bonded underwater metals and the main DC negative bus when tested with a quality multimeter.

Why do bonding wires corrode even if they were installed correctly?

Over time, saltwater migrates into connections that are not properly sealed with adhesive-lined heat shrink. This is especially common on boats 10–20+ years old and leads to high resistance and eventual failure of the bonding circuit.

What is a corrosion reference electrode and why is it useful?

A silver/silver chloride reference electrode measures the actual corrosion potential of your hull and underwater metals. It helps determine whether your anodes are providing adequate protection, if you have stray current issues, or if your bonding system is functioning properly.

Can I test my own bonding system or should I hire a professional?

Basic multimeter resistance testing can be performed by a knowledgeable owner. However, reference electrode testing, interpretation of results, and repairs should be done by an ABYC-certified marine electrician to ensure accuracy and safety.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 13 June 2026

Abandoned and Derelict Vessels in North Carolina: A Growing Problem for Coastal Waters

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Removing the top of a SeaRay 340.

One of the big struggles many marinas have is abandoned vessels and Marine Craft is no exception. Since we have owned Marine Craft we have had to take possession of six abandoned vessels. We were able to rehabilitate 2 for resale. Unfortunately 4 of the vessels were beyond the ability to repair. Those four vessels were safely removed from the water so their further deterioration would not pose a threat to the North Carolina waterways. As you can imagine, this is quite the undertaking for most marinas. In order to safely get the boat out of the water and keep from spilling fuel or other contaminates into the waterways a lot of work has to be put into getting abandoned vessels out of the water.

Abandoned and derelict vessels have become a significant and growing issue along North Carolina’s coast. From the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound to the Intracoastal Waterway, these neglected boats create safety hazards, environmental damage, and financial burdens for taxpayers and waterfront communities.

According to the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (part of DEQ), abandoned vessels pose serious risks including navigation hazards, leaking fuel and oil that contaminate waterways, and the release of other pollutants such as batteries and sewage. Once a vessel is left to deteriorate, it often becomes the responsibility of the state or local governments to remove — at significant taxpayer expense. Marine Craft is helping all of the North Carolina Tax Payers by taking care of abandoned vessels when we can.

The True Cost of Abandoned Vessels:
Removing an abandoned boat is rarely cheap. Costs vary widely depending on the size, location, and condition of the vessel:

Small boats and skiffs can cost between $2,000 and $8,000 to remove.
Larger vessels, especially those sunk or hard aground, can easily exceed $15,000 to $50,000+ in removal and disposal costs.
In many cases, the state must also pay for environmental assessments and cleanup of leaked fuel or hazardous materials.

Because many abandoned vessels often have no traceable owners, these expenses fall on state agencies and local governments. This diverts funding away from other important coastal projects and places an unfair burden on North Carolina taxpayers.

What Can Be Done? While the state has programs to address abandoned vessels, removal is slow and expensive. Prevention is far more effective than cleanup. Boat owners should:

Plan for the eventual disposal of their vessel.
Maintain proper registration and insurance.
Consider the long-term costs of ownership, including responsible end-of-life disposal.

For those dealing with an unwanted vessel, working with a professional marine contractor who understands environmental regulations and proper removal procedures is essential.

At Marine Craft NC, we specialize in marine construction, vessel handling, and environmentally responsible work in coastal waters. While we don’t typically perform large-scale abandoned vessel removal, we regularly assist with related marine construction projects, including seawall work, dock repairs, and site preparation in sensitive coastal environments.

Marine Craft is part of the North Carolina Clean Marina program. While being a designated Clean Marina doesn't mean we are required to carry the costs of abandoned vessel removal we take stewardship of the environment seriously. We recently removed a 34' power boat from one of our slips that had been abandoned for 6 months. Unfortunately this owner was unable to properly care for or recycle his own vessel so it fell to us to take care of. We contacted the last owner and he gave us title and permission to remove his vessel from the water for recycling. We spent the next few days slowly dismantling the vessel to remove all of the fuel, water, batteries, engines, or other components that could potentially contaminate the waterways. Once those parts were removed we then hauled the vessel from the water and began to break it down for recycling where possible or disposal if necessary. All told, this process costs our business about $12,000.00 to remove this one abandoned vessel from the waterways. You can quickly see how this adds up over the many vessels we have taken care of. Marine Craft is more fortunate than some marinas in that we are building a full service boat yard. We have the machinery, infrastructure, skilled technicians, will, and care for the waterways to handle recycling the vessels safely.

If you’re dealing with an aging vessel or need guidance on responsible marine construction and maintenance, our team is happy to help. We bring ABYC-certified expertise and years of local experience working on the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound.
For official information on North Carolina’s abandoned vessel program, visit the NC Division of Coastal Management’s page on Abandoned and Derelict Vessels.

If you have questions about marine construction, dock work, or vessel-related projects in Eastern North Carolina, feel free to contact us at 252-571-9980.

The next time you are at a marina and see an abandoned vessel consider the arduous process to remove or repair the vessel. Always work to keep your own vessel in proper working order so it never needs to be abandoned and plan for those costs in your next boat purchase. One of the great things about the Antares Factory Certified Program is we have strict standards to keep all of our pre-owned Antares in ship shape. If we all work together responsibly we can keep the waterways clean, our boats enjoyable, and have fun on the water for years to come.

Check out a short video of the team at Marine Craft taking care of one of the vessels here.

We’ll see you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to remove an abandoned boat in North Carolina?

Removal costs typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 for small boats, but can exceed $15,000–$50,000 for larger or sunken vessels. These costs often fall on taxpayers when no owner can be found.

Who is responsible for removing abandoned vessels in NC?

In many cases, the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management steps in when vessels are truly abandoned. However, if an owner can be identified, they may be held financially responsible for removal and cleanup.

Why are so many boats abandoned in North Carolina?

Common reasons include high maintenance costs, storm damage, financial hardship, or owners passing away without a plan for the vessel. Once a boat becomes a liability, some owners simply walk away.

Do abandoned vessels cause environmental damage?

Yes. Leaking fuel, oil, batteries, and sewage from deteriorating vessels can pollute waterways and harm marine life. This is one of the main reasons the state prioritizes their removal.

What should I do if I no longer want my boat?

Contact a professional marine contractor or your local marina. Proper disposal or recycling is much less expensive than letting a vessel become abandoned and creating future environmental and legal problems.

Why Does an Electrical Upgrade on a Boat Take So Long and Cost So Much?

Sat, 16 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Electrical upgrades are one of the most common requests we get at Marine Craft NC. Owners often ask the same question: “Why does this cost so much and take so long?”
The short answer is that a proper marine electrical upgrade is not just swapping parts — it’s a complete system redesign and installation that must meet strict ABYC safety standards in a harsh saltwater environment. To understand why, it helps to look at the classic Quality-Cost-Time Triangle.

The Quality-Cost-Time Triangle: In any project you can only truly optimize two of the three sides:

High Quality + Fast Timeline = Higher Cost
High Quality + Low Cost = Longer Timeline
Low Cost + Fast Timeline = Lower Quality

When it comes to your boat’s electrical system, we always choose High Quality first. Here’s why that choice is worth it.

Why Quality Matters More on a Boat. A boat’s electrical system lives in one of the toughest environments imaginable — constant moisture, salt spray, vibration, temperature swings, and UV exposure. A small compromise in materials or workmanship can lead to corrosion, voltage drop, overheating, or even a fire.

Cheap or residential-grade parts (Romex, household wire nuts, non-tinned copper, big-box store fittings) may seem like a bargain at first. They’re not. These materials were never designed for marine use. They corrode quickly, loosen under vibration, and fail far sooner than marine-grade tinned copper, adhesive-lined heat shrink, and properly rated marine connectors.

Here’s the real cost comparison over the life of boat ownership:

Cheap route: Lower upfront cost, but you’ll likely need to repair or replace the system again in 3–5 years.
Proper marine-grade route: Higher initial investment, but the system can easily last 15–20+ years with minimal maintenance.

That "false savings" on materials often ends up costing more in the long run - not to mention the frustration of repeated breakdowns and potential safety risks.

What You’re Actually Paying For: When we quote an electrical upgrade, the price reflects:

Certified expertise — ABYC Master Technicians who understand E-11, E-13 and all the other relevant standards
Proper system design — Not just swapping batteries, but engineering a complete 12/24/48 V DC + 120/230/240 V AC system that matches your actual usage goals
Marine-specific materials — Tinned copper wire, high-quality terminals, dielectric grease, and corrosion-resistant components
Thorough testing — Load testing, thermal imaging, and full system verification before your boat leaves our shop
Long-term support — 6 months of included service so you’re never left stranded

This approach takes more time because we do it right the first time. But it also gives you peace of mind, better performance, and lower total cost of ownership.

At Marine Craft NC we refuse to cut corners. Our customers come to us because they want their electrical system to be reliable for years of safe cruising — not just for the next weekend trip.

If you’re considering a lithium battery upgrade, solar installation, or full electrical refresh, we’d be happy to walk you through the process and show you exactly what you’re paying for. Call us at 252-571-9980 or visit our Electrical Repairs & Upgrades page to learn more.

We look forward to helping you protect your boat and your time on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a boat electrical upgrade more expensive than I expected?

Because it is a complete system redesign, not just swapping batteries. Quality marine-grade materials, ABYC-certified workmanship, and thorough testing all add to the upfront cost but save money over the life of the boat.

Can I save money by using residential parts?

No. Residential wire and fittings corrode quickly in saltwater and fail under vibration. Using them is a false economy that leads to repeated repairs and potential safety issues.

How long should a proper electrical upgrade take?

Most full upgrades take 1–3 weeks depending on scope. This includes design, parts procurement, shop testing, installation, and owner training. Rushing the job compromises safety and quality.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 16 May 2026

How to Spot Electrical Issues on a Boat

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Bad crimps, wire strands cut, bad heat shrink.

Electrical problems on boats are among the most common—and most dangerous—issues owners face. Moisture, corrosion, vibration, and saltwater exposure turn even minor faults into major headaches, or fire hazards. Catching problems early can save thousands in repairs and keep you safe on the water. Here’s how to spot the 5 most common electrical issues before they escalate.

1. Dim or Flickering Lights The first sign many owners notice is lights that dim when other systems (like pumps or electronics) turn on. This usually points to voltage drop from undersized wiring, corroded connections, or a weak battery. Check battery terminals and main distribution panels for green corrosion or loose screws.

2. Burning Smell or Hot Spots Never ignore a faint burning odor or warm-to-the-touch wires, outlets, or breakers. Overloaded circuits, poor connections, or damaged insulation generate heat. Turn off the affected circuit immediately and inspect for melted insulation or blackened terminals.

3. Batteries That Won’t Hold a Charge If your house or starting batteries die quickly even after charging, suspect parasitic draws, sulfation, or failing cells. Use a multimeter to check for current draw with everything off (anything over 50 mA is suspect). Look for swollen cases or leaking acid around terminals. Remember just because you have a good charge voltage on your batteries when charging does not mean the batteries have a good State of Health. You need a battery tester.

4. Corrosion on Terminals and Connections Green/white powder (copper corrosion) or rust on battery posts, bus bars, and ground connections is a red flag. Even small corrosion can cause high resistance, leading to voltage drop and overheating. Disconnect the terminal so you can get all of the surfaces. Clean with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease regularly.

5. Tripping Breakers or Blown Fuses Repeated tripping usually means an overload, short circuit, or ground fault. Inspect wiring for chafing against sharp edges, water intrusion in junction boxes, or overloaded outlets. Never replace a fuse with a higher amperage one—that’s asking for a fire. If a circuit breaker is constantly tripping it is possible the breaker is bad but this is a lot less common than an actual fault exceeding the trip parameters of the breaker.

MC Tip: Invest in a quality multimeter and learn basic voltage drop testing and become familiar with your electrical system. Better yet, schedule an ABYC-certified inspection every 1–2 years—especially before long cruises. Early detection turns potential disasters into simple maintenance.

At Marine Craft we specialize in ABYC-certified marine electrical troubleshooting and upgrades. If you’re seeing any of these signs, don’t wait—contact us at 252-571-9980 for a thorough check. Safe boating starts with a reliable electrical system.

Check our Electrical Repairs and Upgrades page to learn more.

We'll See you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common electrical problems on boats?

Corrosion on terminals/connections, voltage drop from undersized or corroded wiring, parasitic battery drains, overloaded circuits causing hot spots or tripped breakers, and poor grounding leading to erratic electronics.

How can I check for voltage drop on my boat?

Use a multimeter under load: measure voltage at the battery, then at the device. A drop >3% (per ABYC E-11) indicates undersized wire, corrosion, or loose connections. Clean terminals and tighten screws first.

Why do boat batteries fail to hold a charge?

Common causes include parasitic draws (e.g., stereo memory, stuck bilge pump switch), sulfation from undercharging, or failing cells. Test with a multimeter (current draw >50 mA with everything off is suspect) and always check state of health with a proper battery tester—not just charge voltage.

Is it safe to ignore a burning smell from electrical components?

No — shut off the circuit immediately. It usually means overloaded wires, bad connections, or damaged insulation creating heat. Inspect for melted wire or blackened terminals and repair/replace before reusing.

Are wire nuts okay for boat wiring?

No — never use wire nuts on a vessel. Vibration and moisture cause them to loosen or corrode. ABYC E-11.15.3.8 forbids them. Use marine-grade crimp connectors with adhesive-lined heat-shrink for secure, waterproof joins.

When should I schedule a professional boat electrical inspection?

Every 1–2 years, or before long cruises/offshore trips. An ABYC-certified technician can spot hidden issues with thermal imaging and load testing that DIY checks miss, preventing costly failures or safety risks.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 15 March 2026

Spotting Electrical Wiring Issues on Your Boat

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Using a FLIR camera to look for hot spots on wiring.

Electrical wiring problems can be difficult to see. They hide behind panels, corrode in bilges, and can spark fires if ignored. Salt air and vibration make it worse. The good news is you don’t need a full shop to catch them early. Grab a FLIR thermal camera and a multimeter. These tools turn guesswork into diagnostics.

You can start with the FLIR thermal camera. It’s like X-ray vision for heat. Scan your main distribution panel and wiring runs while the boat’s powered up under normal load—running lights, pumps, or charging. If there is no current on a circuit you will not find problems easily. If you are using the FLIR to find a problem with a bad connection that generates heat you have to be using the device. This may require you to raise and lower your anchor several times if you are trying to find a problem in the windlass circuit for example. Look for hot spots: A glowing orange/red on a connection means resistance from corrosion or loose terminals. The team at Marine Craft has spotted arcing faults this way that multimeters miss.

Next, verify with a multimeter like this one from Marine Craft Supply. Set it to continuity or resistance (ohms) mode. Probe suspect spots from the FLIR scan—corroded terminals often show infinite resistance or erratic readings. We often do a “wiggle test” when looking for problems with the wiring. When your boat is sitting still there may be no issue. However, when you start banging around the ocean the wires may move revealing the problem. So grab the wires and move them around. The terminals should stay in place. There are ratings in the ABYC Standards for each wire size. But all wires should maintain good contact with light pressure and moving the wires around. Switch to voltage drop test: With the circuit loaded, measure across connections (should be under 3% drop per ABYC E-11). If you suspsect a flaky ground check for 0.2 ohms or less to the battery negative. You must check the positive and negative of a DC system. So many times we see problems on the negative side of the circuit.

Once spotted, follow ABYC-recommended repairs for safe and reliable repairs. Clean corrosion with a non-residue contact cleaner, then re-terminate connections with heat-shrink tubing to seal against moisture. Always install overcurrent protection at the source and label circuits. If it’s beyond DIY, our ABYC Certified technicians can assist you.
These tools and standards have saved us hours of tear-downs. At Marine Craft, we use these and other processes daily for ABYC certified world class workmanship. Spotting issues early keeps you having fun out on the water safely.

Check out our Electrical Repair and Upgrade page to learn more.

We’ll see you out on the water.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 08 March 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find hidden electrical problems on my boat?

Use a FLIR thermal camera to scan for hot spots while the system is under load. Look for glowing orange or red areas on connections, which indicate resistance from corrosion or loose terminals. Then verify with a multimeter using voltage drop and continuity tests.

What is a voltage drop test and why does it matter?

A voltage drop test measures how much voltage is lost between the battery and the device under load. ABYC E-11 recommends no more than 3% drop on most circuits. Excessive drop usually means undersized wire, corrosion, or poor connections.

Why is the negative side of the circuit often the problem?

Many boat owners only check the positive side. Poor grounding or high resistance on the negative return path is a very common cause of voltage drop, flickering lights, and erratic electronics. Always test both positive and negative sides.

Can I use a residential multimeter on a boat?

Yes for basic testing, but a true RMS multimeter is better for accurate readings on marine systems. Make sure it’s rated for marine use and always follow ABYC safety practices when working with live circuits.

When should I call a professional for boat electrical work?

If you find hot spots, repeated breaker trips, burning smells, or voltage drops over 3%, it’s time to call an ABYC-certified technician. These issues can quickly become fire hazards or leave you stranded.

Why choose Marine Craft for electrical troubleshooting and upgrades?

Our ABYC Master Technicians use professional tools like FLIR cameras and follow strict ABYC standards for every repair and upgrade. We provide world-class workmanship with a focus on safety and long-term reliability. Call 252-571-9980 to schedule your inspection.

What is the process to upgrade my electrical system to an ABYC Certified lithium system?

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Lithium upgrade in process

At Marine Craft we take a system wide approach to upgrading your boats electrical system. Vessels have several complex systems to keep them running smoothly. The transition from lead acid technology to lithium technology is one of the biggest upgrades you can do to your boat. No matter what anyone tells you, going from lead acid to lithium batteries is not a battery exchange, it is a system wide upgrade. We look at your system and work on the charging, discharge, user interface, and safety of the system. An ABYC Certified world class system starts with a design.

Design phase
When you are ready to upgrade your vessel to a lithium battery system we will work with you to understand your goals and what capabilities you want to have at the completion of the upgrade. Are you looking to run your air conditioner all night? Do you have a dive compressor or induction cook top you want to use? We need to know your expected power use in order to gauge your battery storage, charge, and discharge requirements. This is one of the most critical aspects of an electrical upgrade that most installers skip. If your goals for this project are not understood by the system designer and installer how can they ever meet them? Our design process will span multiple phone calls, and emails as we work together to refine your design.

Once we have your goals and the electrical system design completed we will review your vessels current electrical system to see where we are starting from and what we can use going forward. We will determine what charging sources you have, what monitoring systems you have, and if those systems will be compatible for a lithium system. The design phase will take on average between one to two weeks. Once we fully understand your current system and the design is agreed upon we then move onto parts procurement.

Parts procurement and initial testing phase
Each of our designs is unique to our owner’s preferences, goals, and vessel layout. Each of our owners expects and receives a world class system. As soon as the design is approved we will order your components. These parts will take on average one to two weeks to arrive and be inventoried. As parts for your system arrive our ABYC and Victron Certified technicians will start to assemble your system in our testing area. Each system is built and tested before it is installed in your vessel. This initial system testing allows us to identify any possible shortfalls before we begin to install the system in your vessel. We use this time to balance your batteries, make any updates to firmware for your components, confirm there are no failures of the components right out of the box, and we can personalize the components with your unique access codes or names. All of this prep work allows us to minimize the downtime of your vessel. We know you want to enjoy your boat and not have it sit in a marina during an upgrade any longer than is needed.

Vessel System Installation Phase
We will schedule your vessel to arrive at our facility in conjunction with the completion of our initial testing. When you turn over your vessel to us for the upgrade we will begin by removing the old components we are unable to repurpose for your upgrade. Then we will meticulously install every component, wire, fuse, circuit breaker, and terminal in accordance with ABYC and the manufacturer standards. Since we have already completed our initial testing and troubleshooting phase the Vessel System Installation phase can be completed within one or two weeks for large installations.

Testing and owner handover Phase
Once the new electrical lithium system is installed in your vessel and it has been QC checked by our ABYC Certified Master Technicians we will walk through the system with you. This phase will usually last one to two days. We will discharge your batteries to around 30% and demonstrate how much wattage you can now safely pull from your system. We routinely see discharge rates in excess of 8-,9,000 watts. Then we will begin recharging your battery bank with each of your charge sources so you are familiar with expected rates of charge and how and when to utilize the system. We will walk through how to access the data via Victron VRM, Bluetooth, or vessel mounted displays as appropriate. We want to ensure all of our owners are familiar and confident with our system to take it offshore and understand how this new complex system operates.

Follow On Support Phase
When you leave our facility with your newly upgraded system our service does not end. You are enrolled in our Marine Craft Service program for 6 months after the handover phase for no additional charge. This is a $450 value. We not only warranty our workmanship but also provide support no matter where you are in the world via email, text, call, or VRM if enabled. We want to make sure you have world class service for your Marine Craft installed system.

Our five phase certified electrical upgrade process is best in class. If you are looking for your next electrical upgrade be sure to ask if your technician is certified for the installation. Do they have ABYC Master Technicians to QC their work? Have they developed a complete design that meets your goals? Do they provide handover and follow on support? If you are looking for world class upgrades to fit your boating needs there is no better place than Marine Craft. Check out our Electrical Repairs and Upgrades page to learn more about our quality upgrades. Email or give us a call today at 252-571-9980 to schedule the Design Phase of your electrical upgrade. You’ll be glad you did when you are at anchor next to a tropical island with a cold drink in your hand and hot appetizers on a plate made fresh from your ice cold freezer and induction cook top, all powered by your new Marine Craft electrical system.

Check out our YouTube video on this subject here.

We look forward to working with you and we’ll see you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in upgrading my boat to a lithium battery system?

The design phase. We work closely with you to understand your power goals (e.g., running air conditioning overnight, induction cooking, or full off-grid capability). This involves multiple calls and emails to refine a system that meets your needs — not just swapping batteries, but a complete electrical upgrade.

How long does the design phase take?

Typically 1–2 weeks. We review your current system (charging sources, monitoring, compatibility) and ensure the new design aligns with ABYC standards and your specific vessel layout and usage.

Do you test lithium systems before installation?

Yes — we build and test the entire system in our shop first. This includes balancing batteries, firmware updates, component checks, and load testing. It minimizes downtime on your boat and catches any issues early.

How long does the actual installation take?

Most full lithium upgrades (with Victron components, inverters, solar, etc.) take 1–2 weeks once the vessel arrives. Pre-testing lets us move quickly and efficiently while maintaining ABYC quality.

What kind of support do I get after the upgrade?

You’re enrolled in our Marine Craft Service program for 6 months at no extra charge (a $450 value). We provide worldwide support via email, text, phone, or Victron VRM — plus our workmanship guarantee. We want you confident and safe on the water.

Why choose Marine Craft for a lithium electrical upgrade?

Our ABYC Master Technicians ensure world-class quality and attention to detail. We handle seamless 12/24/48V DC + 120/230/240V AC integration, Victron expertise, and full off-grid capability — so you can enjoy tropical anchorages with air conditioning, cooking, and more. Contact us at 252-571-9980 or visit our Electrical Repairs & Upgrades page to start.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 08 March 2026

Recurring issues on recreational vessels Part 2

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 13:46:51 GMT

Residential plumbing on a boat and why you should avoid it.

For part two of our series on recurring issues on a boat we will look at the potable water plumbing system. Most boats will have some combination of flexible hose and flexible tubing. The flexible tubing is most often PEX A or PEX B on vessels. This can come in several colors, usually red for hot potable water, blue for cold potable water and a teal for watermaker water that is filling the potable water tanks. Today we will discuss some of the pitfalls of going to your local home improvement store to pick up parts for your vessels plumbing system.

The ABYC Standard H-23 governs the potable water system on vessels. While most of these standards are the same for residential plumbing as they are in the marine industry the most frequent issue you will come across if you repair a plumbing issue with home improvement parts is the size. If you walk into any home improvement store looking for PEX that may fit your vessel you will see sizes of ½” and ¾” for tubing, fittings, valves, etc. However if you were to purchase a similar fitting or tube from a marine supply store like Marine Craft Supply, Defender, or West Marine you will notice something different. The vast majority of options will be 15mm and not ½” or ¾”. Whale products will have reducers or other fittings to work to the sizes that are odd to marine use such as ½” or ¾” but the standard is 15mm. When you bring your new fittings from the home improvement store and install them on your vessel they may even appear to fit given the sizes are so similar. However, if they do not leak immediately when you install them they will leak soon. Always ensure you are using the correct sized fittings for your potable water system.

If you want the ease of use of something like a Shark Bite fitting, Whale makes quick connect fittings that require no special tools. These fittings can be uninstalled and reinstalled several times in case you didn’t cut your PEX tubing perfectly to size the first time. You will see these fittings all over most modern vessels due to their ease of installation and lifespan in the marine environment. The Shark Bite fittings also may not be corrosion resistant in the marine environment.

Another way to secure PEX fittings is to utilize Oetiker clamps and fittings. These fittings make a strong connection but they do require special tools to install and remove. Most boat owners do not have these in every tool kit. If you prefer this connection the tools are fairly inexpensive and easy to use.

Whichever route you go to repair your vessels potable water system the first step and the most easily overlooked one is selecting the correct size. It may be hard to discern 15mm or ½” simply by looking at the tube. If you’re unsure grab some calipers and confirm before you make a run to the store.

Some of the ABYC standards we discussed here are;
H23.6.2 Metals and metal alloys shall be corrosion resistant, or coated to provide protection from corrosion, and mated parts shall be galvanically compatible.

H23.6.5Joining compounds in potable water systems shall comply with the requirements for materials as stated inH-23.6.3.

If you are looking for repairs to your marine plumbing systems let us know at Marine Craft and we can help ensure you keep the potable water in and the sea water out. You can also view our YouTube video for this subject here.

We'll see you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use residential plumbing parts like PEX and fittings on my boat?

No — you should never use residential-grade PEX, fittings, or connections (e.g., SharkBite from home improvement stores) on a vessel. Marine environments require marine-grade, tinned, corrosion-resistant components. Residential parts often fail quickly due to vibration, saltwater exposure, and size mismatches (½" vs. standard 15 mm marine PEX).

What size PEX tubing should I use on a boat?

Always use marine-standard 15 mm PEX tubing (not ½" or ¾" residential sizes). Brands like Whale, John Guest, or similar marine suppliers provide the correct fittings. Using the wrong size leads to leaks — even if it seems to fit initially. Use calipers to confirm sizing before buying.

Are SharkBite-style push fittings safe for boats?

Only marine-grade versions (e.g., Whale Quick Connect fittings) are safe and recommended. Standard residential SharkBite fittings are not corrosion-resistant in saltwater and can fail under vibration. Whale fittings allow easy install/removal without special tools and are built for marine use.

Can I use Oetiker clamps for boat plumbing?

Yes — Oetiker clamps and fittings create very strong, reliable connections when installed correctly. They require a special crimping tool, but the tools are inexpensive and widely available. They’re a preferred option for many marine professionals.

What does ABYC say about potable water systems on boats?

ABYC Standard H-23 governs potable water systems. Key rules include using corrosion-resistant metals/alloys (H-23.6.2), galvanic compatibility, and joining compounds that meet H-23.6.3 requirements. Residential parts rarely comply, increasing leak and contamination risks.

Where can I get the right marine plumbing parts and service?

Shop at marine suppliers like Marine Craft Supply (www.marinecraftsupply.com) for correct 15 mm PEX, Whale fittings, Oetiker clamps, and more. For professional installation or repairs, contact Marine Craft NC at 252-571-9980 — we specialize in ABYC-compliant potable water systems so you keep fresh water in and seawater out.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 08 March 2026

World class repairs and upgrades

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 14:27:44 GMT

Discover why discerning boat owners in North Carolina and beyond choose Marine Craft for world-class boat repair, upgrades, and full-service vessel care.

If you don't already know about the Chapman School of Seamanship in Stuart Florida they are the center of excellence for the recreational and professional marine industry. They provide a world class curriculum and are a Center of Excellence in the professional marine industry. Our owner Dave C. has attended several courses at Chapman and one of our technicians is currently attending their Yamaha Marine outboard course.

At Marine Craft, we take technical training seriously—our team includes ABYC Master Technicians certified in Marine Electrical, Diesel, Systems, and Standards, plus specialized credentials in Yamaha outboards, NMEA electronics, Victron, and more.

We always provide world class repairs and upgrades and have positioned ourselves to be the center of gravity for the recreational marine industry. We provide worldwide logistics for some of our partner manufacturers. We routinely upgrade vessels with complex electrical systems that are still intuitive for the end user that cover 12/24/48 volt DC and 120/230/240 volt AC systems. Check out our Electrical Repairs and Upgrades page to learn more.

We have trained and skilled technicians for all of your outboard and inboard needs. We have our own brokerage and marine supply store onsite and online. We even have USCG captains on staff on hand to conduct vessel handling training and deliveries locally or worldwide. If you are looking for consulting with selecting and purchasing of your vessel at the beginning of this journey, parts, repairs and upgrades during your ownership, or are set to move on to new adventures and looking for the best way to let your boat go ready to immediately continue across the water with new owners look no further than Marine Craft.

Check out this month’s newsletter from Chapman School of Seamanship and read about Marine Craft bringing skilled work, international business, and amazing customers to beautiful Pamlico County.

Ready for unmatched quality on the water? Contact us today for your next service, upgrade, or consultation.

We’ll see you out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Marine Craft repairs “world class”?

Our ABYC Master Technicians follow strict safety and quality standards, combined with years of hands-on experience on a wide range of vessels—from sailboats to powerboats.

Do you handle complex electrical upgrades?

Yes. We specialize in lithium battery systems, solar installations, inverter setups, and full rewiring projects—all done to ABYC E-11 standards.

Why should I choose Marine Craft over other repair shops?

We combine factory-trained expertise (Yamaha, Victron, NMEA), a quiet Merritt location with ICW access, and a genuine commitment to doing the job right the first time.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 08 March 2026

Why choose an ABYC Certified Technician?

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

ABYC or the American Boat and Yacht Council is the recreational marine repair standardization organization. The American Boat & Yacht Council is committed to enhancing your boating experience by prioritizing safety and enjoyment on the water. Boats using ABYC Standards are 43% to 47% less likely to have certain accidents and reduce fatality risks by 26% to 58% when compared to non-certified boats. ABYC standards not only decrease accident occurrences but also lessen their severity.

If you’ve ever had your car repaired with an ASE certified technician, then you already know the benefits of having a certified technician do your repairs. ABYC is to recreational vessels as ASE is to vehicles. Not only are vessels repaired to ABYC standards but vessels can also be built to ABYC standards. If your vessel manufacturer has committed to being an ABYC member it shows they are taking the time and effort to build to industry standards and best practices. Those manufacturers want to build the most safe and well built vessel they can. ABYC standards are not legally mandated so some manufacturers can choose to not comply with ABYC. If your builder or marine technician is ABYC certified it shows they are going above and beyond to ensure their workmanship.

In order to become an ABYC certified technician you have to have 2 years of experience in the marine repair industry. In addition you are required to pass knowledge and skills tests in your areas of expertise. These areas can be; Electrical, Diesel, Composits, or many others. Most of these examinations are over 100 questions pertaining to the specific area of study. The standards are derived from manufacturer requirements, USCG, NFPA, and decades of knowledge, rigorous testing, and verification that the given standard works. Each year the standards are reviewed to ensure they are always relevant with the current technologies available to the marine industry.

As an ABYC member you gain access to a wealth of knowledge, standards, and trainings. This helps your certified technician to more easily troubleshoot and repair any issues you may have. If you have an ABYC certified technician that wants to expand his area of expertise he could become an ABYC Certified Master Technician. After the technician has gained certification in at least 3 different areas of study they are designated a Master Technician. This designation honors marine professionals who have demonstrated expertise and commitment to continuous education.

Here at Marine Craft we are proud of our workmanship and are always striving to be better technicians and advisors. We have ABYC Master Technicians and certified technicians on staff ready to help you with your next repair or upgrade. Contact us today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose an ABYC Certified technician?

Boats serviced to ABYC standards are 43–47% less likely to experience certain accidents and reduce fatality risks by 26–58% compared to non-certified work. Certified techs follow proven safety protocols.

Do I need ABYC certification for boat repairs?

Not legally required, but highly recommended. ABYC-certified technicians meet strict safety standards that lower fire and shock risks—many insurers and surveyors now prefer or require it for complex jobs like lithium upgrades.

Do non-certified technicians have access to the latest ABYC standards?

Possibly—if the shop is an ABYC member, they may have access. Only ABYC members can view the most current standards for vessel repair and maintenance.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 21 February 2026

Outboard engines

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:48:42 GMT

Yamaha outboards ready to be serviced.

Marine Craft is always looking advance our skills and knowledge. We have one of our technicians Easton D. attending the 9 week long course for Yamaha Marine certification at Chapman School of Seamanship. Marine Craft has Yamaha Marine Maintenance Certifications in the Introduction to Outboard Systems, Portable Engines F/T 9.9, Midrange Engines F30/40, Inline Engines F/LF 150B and V-Engine 4.2L Offshore Platforms.

Our core mission is providing world class repairs for the marine industry. We take great pride in our skills and knowledge. If you are looking to have your boat professionally maintained or repaired we can provide you with the quality work you can be proud of. We stand behind all of our workmanship.

If you want to know more about this great program you can read more on the Chapman School of Seamanship website.

If you are looking to have your outboard professionally maintained let us know at Marine Craft and we can help get you ready for fun on the water this Spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Marine Craft work on outboard engines?

Yes—our trained and certified technicians handle all outboard needs, from annual service to complete repowers.

How often should I have my outboard engine professionally serviced?

At least annually, but always follow your operator's manual for the manufacturer's recommended schedule.

Can Marine Craft help me select a new outboard engine for my boat?

Yes, we consult with boat owners daily to match the best engine options to their vessel. Contact us at 252-571-9980 to discuss your needs.

Posted by Dave C., ABYC Master Technician 10 February 2026