Hull Antifouling Product

Michael T

Just saw an interesting video by Captain Steve on the Boat Test video link. The product he reviewed was Hull Shield Ultrasonic antifouling system. He showed a boat that had been kept in a marina where the boats are usually cleaned every two weeks. There was no growth on the hull and only some growth on the underwater lights as the caulking used to bed them did not transfer the sound waves. This technology has been used by navies and big ships for years but, apparently, this system is now designed for boaters like you. You may want to google the product or Boat test magazine for the video. I tried to copy the link but it didn't take. I may give that a second try. best regards to all - hope you are having an awesome boating season and that your ACs are working well! Cheers, MT

YYZRC

https://www.hullshield.net/product/hull-shield-hs75-ultrasonic-antifouling-system-digital-bottom-paint/

Aqua_Aura

$1350 for up to 40' isn't terrible especially if you are paying someone to haul and paint your boat as opposed to DIY. 

aero3113

Was hoping they were going to show install. But 0:50 looks nice.

https://youtu.be/SriU9bgxdSs

YYZRC

Well $1350 for the hull plus another grand for the drive(s). I would do it if it would prevent algae/slime build-up. No way to know if it does that. 

The lack of evidence of how it performs is concerning. That video was less than informative. 

Aqua_Aura

0:50 was definitely a whole bottom 🤣

J3ff

Man, if this would stop growth on the drive, bellows, trim tabs.... I'd be in for it for sure. 

Dream_Inn

you know, I believe I was talking to someone at Rinkervous about this. @YowellsLiquidAssets I remember you talking about something like this, correct?

J3ff

So they seem to have a lower freq model for out drives.. I know it's pricey but if it would keep the drive free of growth it'd be well worth it. https://www.hullshield.net/product/drive-shield-ds50-ultrasonic-antifouling-system-stern-gear-thruster-rudder-protection/

TonyG13

I looked at this awhile ago after seeing an ad in BoatUS magazine. If you read the FAQs it doesn't seem to really be all that cost effective, since they still seem to recommend bottom paint. So why add the extra cost and drain on your electrical system? For example:

Q. Will I Still Need Bottom Paint?

A. This depends on your circumstances. Hull Shield functions the same whether you have bottom paint or not – by extending the time required between cleaning. Hull Shield systems used in conjunction with bottom paint will require less maintenance and cleaning than if no bottom paint is used. Boats using Hull Shield without bottom paint will still benefit with extended periods between cleaning compared to having no-protection, however removal of fouling will be more difficult. Having a bottom paint coating, even a non-toxic paint, will limit staining, fiberglass blistering, and aid in the easy removal of any accumulation.

Q. Will I still need to clean my hull after installing Hull Shield?
A. Less Frequently. Hull Shield systems function to extend the time between hull maintenance and cleaning.

Aqua_Aura

https://youtu.be/MRDVtVMKp3c