New podcast episodeAvoiding mistakes during sailboat maintenance - with master boat builder Sven Walter

Leonie Meyer

 · 09.05.2025

Today's guest reveals the biggest mistakes made during maintenance work on a sailing boat and explains how to avoid them.
Photo: Michael Amme
Spring has long since arrived, as has the new sailing season - but not every sailing boat comes out of hibernation without a hitch. Sven Walter reveals the difficult maintenance pitfalls and why some work should be done in autumn in the 39th podcast episode of YACHT - the sailing podcast. Together with podcast host Timm Kruse, the master boat builder, who works for the company M.u.H. von der Linden, gives helpful tips for beginners as well as experienced boat owners.

Every sailor knows it: spring arrives sooner than expected and the sailboat is finally due back on the water. However, it is often precisely then that it becomes apparent that not everything went smoothly during winterisation or that important maintenance work has simply been forgotten.

In the latest podcast episode, Sven Walter, who works at M.u.H. von der Linden, is our guest. The experienced master boat builder and application engineer knows all about typical mistakes and reveals to listeners what really matters when it comes to good preparation for the season.

Why timely maintenance makes sense

Particularly interesting: Sven Walter recommends carrying out most maintenance tasks on the sailing boat immediately after the end of the sailing season in autumn. But what exactly can be done then, and what advantages does this early approach actually have? The master boat builder shares some useful practical tips.

Another topic in the series is the right antifouling. Special environmental regulations apply, which stipulate a biocide-free antifouling, for example. Sven Walter and Timm Kruse talk about the right choice and procedure for applying it to the hull in order to avoid damage and subsequent costs.

Electric instead of diesel: trends of the future

The episode also looks at current technical trends. The application engineer explains why electric motors are currently in vogue - not only for the sake of the environment, but also in terms of maintenance, service and reliability. But is a conversion really worthwhile? The expert will tell you.

Sailing boats in particular only run for a few hours a year with the engine running - nevertheless, Sven Walter strongly advises an annual impeller and oil change. It is just as important to check the diesel quality carefully to prevent a so-called diesel plague. Which technology should really be checked? What about tank cleaning? The boat builder also has answers to these questions.

Proper care of ropes, fittings and winches

The maintenance and care of typical equipment such as ropes, blocks or winches should also not be neglected. However, many sailors do this. But with a few simple steps and the right cleaning agents and lubricants, you can significantly extend the service life and increase safety on board. Today's guest explains what you should not do without.


Here you can listen to the YACHT podcast with Sven Walter

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