tophatyachts.com

Hi, I am looking at antifouling my Mark III and have recently read an article in PBO of a UK sailor's cost benefit analysis of a Coppercoat (Coppershield in Oz) compared to a "normal" antifoul. Given that the new product is expected to last for 10 years, the real savings are in the savings made for not having to have the boat lifted out every 12-18 months. Additonal cost is initally incurred in the purchase price of the product and in taking off all of the former antifoul - but the savings are very impressive, and the inspection after 3 years bears testimony to an effective long-lasting antifoul.
I was wondering if any one has used this product on their "Toppie"? Would love to hear your views.
Cheers,
Kevin
Wayward Lady

I like to have my boat out every year to see that everything is OK below the waterline anyway so I do not really see much advantage in an antifoul that lasts too much longer. I would also be careful with tests in the UK where the water is much cooler than in Aus. My 2 cents worth of advice would be to make sure to talk to someone who has tried the product here on a boat that is used as regularly as yours. I thought prop speed looked great until I tried it. Keep us informed of your progress.

Cheers,
Mark

Hi Mark,

How did you go with prop speed?
What was the cost?
Did you do it yourself? If so any tricks we should know about?

We have huge problems on the Camden Haven River with foul props, only last 2 weeks in summer

If prop speed is no good , what next?

Phillip.

Hi Phillip,

I have tried Prop Speed for a couple of years. Had it professionally applied each time at 12 month intervals(about $300 each application). They cleaned my bronze two blade prop to bare metal each time it was applied. Seems to be good for about 6 months in my location (I use the boat about once a week) and then it's over the side for a scrape every 4/6 weeks before the next application. I suspect it is more effective on boats with higher prop speeds. I am half hearted about using it again when I have the boat antifouled in August. The decision will probably come down to the state of my finances when I have the boat out next.

Cheers,
Mark