Riptide Boat Repair

03/24/2026

Spring is here and boating season is right around the corner. If your boat sat all winter, now is the time to check it over before you launch.

Faded gelcoat? Spider cracks? Chips from last season you never got around to fixing? Small damage doesn't stay small — and it's always cheaper to fix now than after a full summer in the sun.

We're Riptide Boat Repair in New Bern. We specialize in fiberglass repair, gelcoat repair, oxidation removal, and detailing — in-shop and mobile at your dock.

Send us photos for a free estimate.
📞 252-229-9869
🌐 www.riptideboatrepair.com

02/26/2026

Get Your Boat Ready for Spring with Riptide Boat Repair

Spring boating season is almost here in New Bern! Now is the perfect time to get your boat cleaned, repaired, and water-ready before the busy season hits.

At Riptide Boat Repair, we specialize in:

✔️ Fiberglass & gelcoat repair
✔️ Oxidation removal & detailing
✔️ Mobile fiberglass & gelcoat boat repair

Whether your boat needs minor cosmetic fixes or full surface restoration, we’ll make sure it’s ready for smooth days on the water.

Avoid the spring rush — schedule your service now and hit the water with confidence.

📍 Serving New Bern, Havelock, and surrounding areas
📞 Call us today for a quote

02/26/2026

Winter Boat Tip – Week 6: Winter Work = Spring Ready

Boats serviced in winter are ready to go when the weather turns.

Tip:
Handling repairs and restoration during the off-season avoids spring delays and gets you on the water faster.

📞 252-229-9869

02/18/2026

Week 5 – Structural Damage

🛠️ Boat Tip of the Week

If a deck or hull feels soft or flexes under pressure, the damage is deeper than the surface. Cosmetic fixes won’t hold — structural repair is required to restore strength.

Ignoring it only makes repairs more expensive later.

02/12/2026

Week 4 – Mobile Repairs

🛠️ Boat Tip of the Week

Many fiberglass and gelcoat repairs can be done right at your dock or marina — but not all repairs belong in the field. Structural damage, flexing, and deep repairs need shop conditions to last.

Knowing the difference saves time and money.

02/05/2026

Week 3 – Oxidation

🛠️ Boat Tip of the Week

If your gelcoat leaves white residue on your hand, oxidation has already started. Early correction restores shine without aggressive compounding or heavy material removal.

The sooner oxidation is addressed, the better the finish

01/29/2026

Week 2 – Gelcoat Chips

🛠️ Boat Tip of the Week

Gelcoat chips expose raw fiberglass to moisture. Over time, water intrusion weakens the laminate and causes bigger repairs. Small chips are quick fixes when handled early.

If you see exposed fiberglass, it’s time to address it — not wait.

01/21/2026

Week 1 – Fiberglass Cracks

🛠️ Boat Tip of the Week

Spider cracks may look small, but they usually mean the fiberglass is flexing underneath. Left alone, they can spread and turn into structural damage. Catching them early keeps repairs simple and affordable.

If you’re unsure whether a crack is cosmetic or structural, send a photo and we’ll point you in the right direction.

01/20/2026

Not every boat repair should be rushed.
We see a lot of damage that was patched temporarily and ends up costing more to fix later. Whether it’s fiberglass cracks, gelcoat chips, or deck damage, doing it right the first time matters.

We take the time to evaluate the repair, explain your options clearly, and use proper marine-grade materials so the work actually lasts — not just looks good.

Mobile service is available for eligible repairs. Structural work is completed in-shop for best results.

Call - 252-229-9869

01/12/2026

Winter Boat Tip – Inspect the Hull Below the Waterline

Damage below the waterline is easy to miss until it’s serious.

Tip:
Look for blistering, cracks, or worn areas on the hull. Early repair helps save costly repairs later.

📞 252-229-9869

Dependable boat repair in New Bern, NC. We specialize in fiberglass repair, gelcoat repair, and oxidation removal with mobile and in-shop service available. Request an estimate today.

01/10/2026

Boat looking chalky or faded lately?

Oxidation is one of the most common issues we see on boats in Eastern NC, especially after long sun exposure, salt air, and seasonal weather changes. When gelcoat begins to oxidize, it doesn’t just dull the appearance—it also leaves the surface unprotected and more prone to further damage.

Common signs of oxidation include:
• A chalky or hazy look
• Faded color
• Rough texture instead of a smooth shine
• Water no longer beading on the surface

The good news is that most oxidation can be corrected with proper compounding, polishing, and protection when it’s addressed early. Waiting too long allows oxidation to pe*****te deeper, making restoration more involved.

Winter and early spring are a great time to take care of oxidation before boating season ramps up.

If you’re unsure whether what you’re seeing is oxidation or something else, we’re always happy to look at photos or answer questions.