FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We work at most marinas and storage facilities across Rhode Island. Common locations include facilities in Warwick Cove, Wickford Cove, Narragansett, East Greenwich, Newport. If your boat is stored anywhere in or near Rhode Island, contact us and we will confirm service availability at your specific location.

We can work on boats in both situations. Hull cleaning above the waterline is accessible on boats in slips. Full hull work including below the waterline is more effectively done on boats that are hauled and on the hard. We will advise you on what is achievable based on your boat's current location.

We work on everything from small bass boats and ski boats to large sportfishers, cruisers, and sailboats. If it floats and needs detailing, we can handle it. Contact us and we'll confirm what's involved based on your specific vessel.

For boats used regularly in Rhode Island's coastal waters, we recommend a full detail at least once per season, ideally at the beginning of the season. Boats exposed to heavy saltwater use, direct sun, and marine growth benefit from regular cleanings as well. Contact us to learn more about a maintenance washing program that is right for your boat.

We use Starke Yacht Care products; professional marine-grade compounds, polishes, sealants, and coatings. Professional products are formulated specifically for marine gelcoat and paint, and produce results that consumer products cannot match. 

Boat detailing cost is dependent on the size of the boat, its condition, and the services requested. A basic wash and wax on a 20-foot center console will cost significantly less than a full oxidation correction and ceramic coating on a 35-foot sportfisher. At 401 Marine Detailing, we provide free quotes based on your specific boat. Fill out a quote form or give us a call with your boat's length, type, and condition and we'll get back to you with a firm number before any work begins.

Scheduling varies by time of year. During peak season we book out fast, sometimes weeks in advance. We recommend reaching out early to secure your preferred date. Contact us and we'll give you an honest timeline based on current availability.

Oxidation occurs when UV rays break down the resin in fiberglass gelcoat over time, causing it to appear chalky, faded, or dull. It is extremely common on boats that sit in the sun without a protective wax or coating. Mild to moderate oxidation can almost always be corrected through a compound and polish process, which removes the degraded surface layer and restores the original gloss. Severe oxidation may require multiple stages of compounding or in some cases professional refinishing. At 401 Marine Detailing, we assess the level of oxidation before we begin and explain exactly what outcome to expect.

A detail can take anywhere from a couple hours to multiple days. It is very dependent on the job being done, the condition and size of the boat. A full oxidation correction is going to take much longer than a wash and wax. We will give you a realistic time estimate when you book so you can plan accordingly.