Love Your Boat? Here Are 10 Investments That Will Make You Love It Even More!
Love Your Boat? Here Are 10 Investments That Will Make You Love It Even More!
From boat restoration and outboard maintenance to hydraulic steering, electronics, and repowers, discover how to make your favorite boat feel new again—and keep it on Maine's lakes for years to come.
By Amy Gingras | General Manager, Clark Marine | Manchester, Maine
There's something special about a boat you love.
Maybe it's the pontoon that's been the backdrop for countless family gatherings on Cobbosseecontee Lake. The fishing boat that's seen more sunrises on Great Pond than you can count. Or the little Boston Whaler that has been passed down through generations, collecting memories along the way.
You know its quirks. You know its personality. You know precisely how to get the Bimini top to cooperate (most of the time).
And even though you might occasionally find yourself admiring the shiny new boats at the dealership, there's a good chance you'd rather keep the one you've already got.
Well, I've got some great news for you: You don't necessarily need a new boat to have a better boating experience.
In fact, some of the smartest investments you can make are in the boat you already own.
I'm speaking from experience.
First, Let Me Tell You About My Own Boat.
I own a boat that I've been investing in over the last few years, and one of the best decisions I've made was replacing the old carpet with beautiful woven vinyl flooring and having a few seats reupholstered.
Holy cow. What a difference.
The boat looks more modern, feels more luxurious, and is genuinely beautiful. Those improvements completely changed how I feel about the boat, and I believe they've given me another ten-plus years of enjoyment out of something I already loved.
And I'm not done!
Next on my list is having the fuel system serviced and cleaned out, adding a new stereo and depth finder, and maybe even doing a little touch-up paint on the exterior panels if I get ambitious.
Why?
Because I LOVE my boat. It suits my family, it does what I need it to do, and I see no reason to replace something that still makes me so happy.
That's really what this article is about.
At Clark Marine, we've been taking care of Maine's boaters since 1958. We've seen just about everything when it comes to old boats, new boats, beautiful restorations, and projects that probably should never have been started.
And we've learned something important along the way:
The best boat upgrade isn't necessarily the most expensive one. It's the one that makes YOUR boating experience better.
So, whether you're hoping to extend the life of your boat, prevent an expensive breakdown, or simply make your favorite summer escape a little more enjoyable, here are ten investments worth dreaming about.
1. Give Your Boat a New Look With Flooring and Upholstery
Best for: Pontoon owners and boaters who love their layout but want a fresher, more modern interior.
I'm starting here because I've personally experienced how transformative this can be.
If your boat has stained carpeting, cracked vinyl, tired cushions, or seating that's seen better days, you might be amazed by how much a little cosmetic attention can accomplish.
Replacing old carpet with woven marine vinyl can make a pontoon look dramatically more modern. Reupholstering a few seats can brighten the entire interior. And replacing worn foam or damaged seating can make those long summer afternoons a whole lot more comfortable.
The best part? You get to keep the boat you already know and love.
At Clark Marine, we help customers evaluate flooring replacement, upholstery improvements, and larger pontoon restoration projects.
A word of caution: Not every older boat is a good candidate for restoration.
Before undertaking a major reflooring project, we want to know what's happening underneath that old carpet. Is the deck structurally sound? Are the pontoons in good condition? Is there hidden deterioration?
Because sometimes a flooring project can turn into a complete redecking, and we want you to understand that possibility before the boat comes apart.
Our goal isn't simply to sell you new flooring. It's to make sure you're investing wisely in a boat that's worth improving.
2. Upgrade to Hydraulic or Power-Assisted Steering
Best for: Pontoon and tritoon owners who want an easier, more comfortable driving experience.
If you've spent years wrestling with a stiff steering wheel, this one might change your life.
Seriously.
Moving from mechanical steering to hydraulic steering can make a boat feel like an entirely different rig.
And for certain compatible boats, upgrading to power-assisted steering can take that experience a step further. We love the Dometic Xtreme system which is quick to install and is a game changer.
Imagine easier maneuvering around the dock, less effort at the wheel, and more comfortable cruising around the lake.
It's the kind of improvement you might not appreciate until you've experienced it.
At Clark Marine, outboard rigging and steering systems are part of our everyday work. We help customers evaluate mechanical steering replacements, hydraulic conversions, and compatible power-assist systems.
Not every steering system can or should be upgraded in the same way, so we'll start by looking at your boat, engine, and existing equipment.
My advice: If steering is your biggest frustration, start here. You might find yourself wondering why you waited so long.
And remember: unusually stiff or binding steering may signal a problem that needs to be repaired, not simply upgraded.
3. Invest in a 300-Hour Service Before You Need an Expensive Tow
Best for: Outboard owners who want to protect their engines, their wallets, and their summer weekends.
Okay, this one isn't glamorous.
Nobody is inviting their friends over to admire their new water pump.
But if there's one investment I wish more boat owners took seriously, it's preventative engine maintenance.
Especially 300-hour services when they're due.
Here's why.
Let's say your scheduled major service is going to cost around $900.
You put it off because the engine seems to be running fine.
Then July arrives. You're enjoying a beautiful afternoon on the lake, and your water pump fails. Or your spark plugs finally give up. Or another component that should have been addressed during scheduled maintenance causes a breakdown.
Now you need a lake service, diagnostics, repairs, AND the maintenance that was already due.
Suddenly, that roughly $900 service can become an $1,800 bill.
And that's assuming there wasn't additional engine damage.
Yuck.
Now, I'm not suggesting every breakdown can be prevented. Boats are machines, and machines occasionally break.
But following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is one of the best things you can do to reduce the risk of avoidable problems.
Depending on the engine and its service schedule, major maintenance may involve water pumps, impellers, spark plugs, thermostats, fuel filters, timing belts, and other critical components.
Our technicians service qualifying Mercury, Suzuki, Honda, and Yamaha outboards, using manufacturer-specific procedures and service information.
My advice?
Read your motor's manual and follow the recommendations.
And if you don't want to read it, call us. We'll keep you in line!
Note: Maintenance intervals and costs vary by engine. The figures above are illustrative examples, not universal service prices.
4. Have Your Fuel System Evaluated Before It Ruins Your Summer
Best for: Boats with aging fuel systems, questionable fuel history, performance problems, or recurring running issues.
You know what really ruins boating seasons?
FUEL SYSTEMS.
We see fuel-related problems cause headaches during some of the busiest, most beautiful weeks of summer.
And fuel system failures can be expensive.
Even if you faithfully schedule annual engine maintenance, there may be additional fuel system components worth evaluating depending on your engine's age, condition, and operating history.
Services to consider include:
- Fuel system diagnostics and inspections.
- Fuel line and primer bulb evaluation.
- Fuel filter and water separator replacement.
- Fuel injector testing and cleaning when needed.
- Fuel pump and vapor separator tank servicing where applicable.
- Carbon buildup evaluation and appropriate engine decarbonization procedures.
- Inspection for contaminated or deteriorated fuel.
Not every engine needs every one of these services, and we don't recommend throwing expensive parts at a problem without understanding what's wrong.
But a well-maintained fuel system is an important part of keeping your boat running reliably.
And when the work is complete?
Fresh, manufacturer-appropriate fuel, recommended fuel treatment where applicable, and a proper on-water performance check can help you head into the season with confidence.
My advice: If your boat has been running rough, hesitating, struggling to start, or showing signs of fuel delivery problems, don't ignore it until August.
Let's figure it out while the lake is still frozen.
5. Modernize Your Boat With New Marine Electronics
Best for: Fishing boats, pontoons, and recreational boats with outdated or unreliable electronics.
Marine technology has come a LONG way.
And you don't need to buy a brand-new boat to enjoy it.
Whether you want a better depth finder, more sophisticated fish-finding technology, an improved GPS system, or a properly networked electronics setup, upgrades can dramatically change how you use your boat.
At Clark Marine, we work with fishing boat owners to select electronics that fit their actual needs.
That might include Garmin, Lowrance, or Humminbird displays, advanced sonar, trolling motor integration, GPS navigation, or networking multiple pieces of equipment together.
And here's something people don't always realize:
A sophisticated marine electronics installation can take upwards of 20 hours.
Between wiring, mounting, configuring displays, networking equipment, and making sure everything works together, these aren't always quick little projects.
Which brings me to my favorite part about having this work done in the winter.
You don't miss a SINGLE DAY of tournament season!
We can take the time to evaluate the setup, install the equipment properly, and prepare your boat before the fishing gets good.
My advice: Don't buy electronics solely because they're the newest or most expensive option. Buy the setup that makes sense for the way YOU fish.
That's where a knowledgeable marine electronics installer can make all the difference.
6. Upgrade Your Trolling Motor and Fishing Setup
Best for: Freshwater anglers who love their current fishing boat but wish it could do a little more.
Sometimes the thing standing between you and your dream fishing boat isn't a whole new boat.
It's a trolling motor.
A modern GPS-enabled trolling motor with virtual anchoring capabilities can make an enormous difference for anglers who want better boat control and positioning.
Combine that with compatible sonar, updated batteries, an onboard charger, and a few thoughtful improvements to your fishing layout, and your familiar boat can suddenly feel like a completely different machine.
And there's something wonderful about that.
You already know how your boat handles. You know where everything belongs. You've probably spent years getting it set up exactly how you like it.
Why start over if you don't have to?
At Clark Marine, our team can help fishing boat owners evaluate trolling motors, charging systems, electronics integration, and related upgrades.
My advice: Think about your fishing experience as a whole. A new trolling motor might require electrical or battery upgrades, and we want all the pieces working together properly.
The goal is a boat that helps you fish—not another piece of equipment that needs constant attention.
7. Give Your Favorite Boat New Life With an Outboard Repower
Best for: Owners of structurally sound boats with aging, unreliable, or underperforming motors.
I have a real soft spot for repowers.
Especially when someone brings us a beautifully refurbished classic Boston Whaler.
We've seen those wonderful 13- and 15-foot Whalers come in with fresh gelcoat, refinished seats, and years of love poured into them.
And then we get to finish the transformation with a new outboard.
How cool is that?
A repower is simply replacing an existing boat engine with a new one while keeping the boat you already own.
Depending on the engine you're replacing, a modern four-stroke outboard may offer improved fuel economy, quieter operation, better reliability, updated technology, and new manufacturer warranty coverage.
At Clark Marine, we specialize in freshwater outboard repowers using Mercury, Suzuki, and Honda engines.
We also have access to manufacturer programs, including Suzuki's 4-4-2 program for qualifying conversions, that may help reduce the cost of upgrading from an older two-stroke to a modern four-stroke.
But here's something I want you to understand.
A new motor does not magically fix everything that's wrong with your boat.
If your boat has a rat's nest of old wiring, deteriorating steering components, or structural problems, simply bolting on a new outboard won't make those problems disappear.
This is why we take the time to evaluate the entire project.
And it's why we have a dedicated repower specialist, Brian, who helps customers build packages based on their boat, budget, and priorities.
People usually want to know three things:
What's the least expensive option? What's the fastest motor I can put on? And how long will it take?
The answer is different for every boat.
A proper repower must account for the boat's horsepower rating, structural condition, weight limits, existing controls, steering, wiring, and rigging.
My advice: If your current motor is constantly breaking down, never seems to run right, or has finally given up altogether, it's probably time to talk about repowering.
That doesn't automatically mean a new engine is the right financial decision.
But it's absolutely worth exploring.
8. Turn Your Avalon Pontoon Into a Tritoon
Best for: Owners of compatible, relatively newer Avalon pontoons who love their boats but want more performance.
Now THIS is a fun one.
One of the more dramatic transformations we can perform at Clark Marine is converting certain Avalon pontoons into tritoons.
For the right boat, this can involve installing a center pontoon and motor pod, evaluating the existing engine for trade, adding a new motor, and upgrading the steering system as needed.
The result can be a dramatically different boating experience, with improved performance and handling characteristics when the package is properly designed.
But I'm going to be upfront with you.
This is not a small investment.
Customers should generally be prepared to spend at least $15,000 on the center pontoon portion alone, with the new engine, rigging, steering, installation, and other requirements adding to the total.
For qualifying purchases, financing options for the new motor may help make the project more manageable.
Does that mean everyone with a pontoon should convert it into a tritoon?
Absolutely not.
But if you LOVE your Avalon, it's in excellent condition, and you're planning to keep it for years, this can be a really exciting alternative to buying a whole new boat.
My advice: Start with a conversation. We'll evaluate your boat's compatibility and determine whether the potential performance improvements justify the investment.
Because sometimes a major upgrade is exactly what you need.
And sometimes, the two pontoons you already have are doing a perfectly wonderful job.
9. Make Your Boat More Comfortable With the Little Things
Best for: Anyone who has a list of little annoyances that make boating harder than it needs to be.
You know that one thing about your boat that drives you absolutely crazy?
Maybe it's wrestling with the giant mooring cover every time you want to go for a ride.
Maybe it's the boarding ladder that makes everyone feel like they're climbing Mount Katahdin.
Or the radio that only works when you jiggle the knob just right.
Whatever it is, FIX IT!
Some of the most satisfying boat improvements aren't major mechanical projects at all.
They're convenience upgrades.
Think individual seat covers instead of dealing with a full mooring cover every time. A better boarding ladder. A repaired Bimini. New charging ports. Improved cup holders. An updated stereo, a ski tow bar.
For one customer, hydraulic steering might be the biggest improvement imaginable.
For another, simply eliminating the need to wrestle a giant boat cover every afternoon could completely change how often they use their boat.
Every boater is different, and every upgrade should be different, too.
At Clark Marine, we love helping people solve those little problems that stand between them and a relaxing day on the lake.
Because boating should be FUN.
10. Refresh Your Boat With Professional Detailing and Cosmetic Improvements
Best for: Boats that run beautifully but are beginning to look a little tired.
Sometimes your boat doesn't need a new motor, new flooring, or a fancy electronics package.
Sometimes it just needs a little love.
Years of sun exposure, minerals, and regular use can leave your boat looking a lot older than it actually is.
A professional cleaning, pontoon cleaning, appropriate ceramic protection, or a few cosmetic repairs can make a dramatic difference.
And a good cosmetic refresh can also help you identify deteriorating materials before they turn into more serious problems.
For certain boats, touch-up paint or other carefully selected improvements can help complete the transformation.
I know I'm looking forward to giving my own boat a little cosmetic attention.
My advice: You don't have to do everything at once. A thoughtful improvement here and there can make a big difference over time.
But Is It Actually Worth Investing Money in an Older Boat?
This might be the most important question in the entire article.
And I'm going to give you the same advice I'd give a friend.
It depends on the boat, how long you plan to keep it, and what it's worth to YOU.
If you're thinking about trading or selling your boat within the next five years, I encourage you to think carefully about your return on investment.
Spending thousands on cosmetic improvements or optional upgrades might make your boating experience more enjoyable, but you may not recover that money when you sell.
Sometimes the smartest decision is to save those funds for your next boat.
But if you're planning to keep your boat for another five, ten, or fifteen years?
That's a different conversation.
If your boat has good bones—a sound hull or pontoons, a solid deck, and a structurally sound transom—there may be plenty of reasons to invest in improvements.
At Clark Marine, we evaluate these things before agreeing to major projects such as reflooring and repowering.
We want to make sure we're helping you spend your money wisely.
Because here's something I've learned:
JD Power can tell me what your boat can sell for, but it cannot tell me what the value of your boat is to you.
Only you can decide that.
The boat your grandfather taught you to fish in might be worth more to you than a brand-new one.
The pontoon that's hosted twenty years of family memories might be impossible to replace.
And the little fishing boat you've spent years perfecting might already be the best boat in the world—for you.
That value is real, even if it doesn't show up in a resale guide.
A Word of Caution About Major Boat Restorations
I also want to be honest about something.
Restoring a truly old boat can get expensive. Fast.
A repower can reveal complicated wiring problems.
An upholstery project can uncover rotten wood beneath the seats.
And a reflooring job can quickly turn into a complete redecking.
Sometimes once a boat starts coming apart, you discover that putting it back together is far more complicated than anyone expected.
That's why I strongly encourage boat owners to work with experienced marine professionals on major restorations.
You want someone who will evaluate the boat carefully, discuss the risks, explain the potential costs, and tell you when an investment simply doesn't make sense.
The right marine service department should know not only how to do the work, but also when to recommend against it.
And if unexpected problems arise once a project begins, you should expect clear communication before the scope or cost changes.
We take that responsibility seriously at Clark Marine.
Why Winter Is THE Time to Upgrade Your Boat in Maine
I'm going to make this as clear as I possibly can.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL MARCH TO DECIDE YOU WANT WINTER WORK DONE.
Trust me on this one.
November is when I want you making decisions about major repairs, installations, and upgrades.
By March, Maine marine service departments are shifting into spring preparations. Boats need to be uncovered, serviced, and delivered. Everyone wants to be back on the water the minute the ice goes out.
And big projects that could have been completed over the winter start competing with the spring rush.
Winter work offers some wonderful advantages:
- You protect your summer. Complete major repairs and upgrades while your boat is already out of the water.
- You may save money. Clark Marine offers discounted winter labor rates on qualifying work, and seasonal storage or service promotions may also be available.
- You have time to plan. Larger projects often require estimates, specialized parts, and significant technician labor.
- You get that new-boat excitement without necessarily buying a new boat.
- You can begin the season with greater peace of mind. Known issues can be evaluated and addressed before launch.
And here's one more reason I love winter work.
It's one of the best ways to give your favorite boat dealer a big hug!
Winters in Maine can be cold. But these projects keep our technicians busy doing what they love, and they help us continue caring for customers year-round.
I think that's a pretty wonderful arrangement.
You get a better boating season.
We get to spend our winter making boats better.
Everybody wins.
Why Trust Clark Marine With Your Boat?
First and foremost, we're outboard mechanics.
We've spent decades honing that craft, and we have absolutely no plans to slow down.
Engine repairs, preventative maintenance, repowers, steering systems, and rigging are at the heart of what we do.
We're also pretty darn passionate about pontoons.
As an Avalon dealer, pontoons are central to our business. Over the years, we've become extremely familiar with the repairs, improvements, and restoration projects that can make them even better.
And if there's something we can't do ourselves?
Chances are we know a guy.
We're also experienced with fishing boat electronics, networking, and helping anglers select systems that make sense for their boats.
But beyond the equipment and technical expertise, I think what really matters is how we treat people.
We do what we say we're going to do, how we say we're going to do it, at the price we've agreed upon for the defined work.
That doesn't mean every project is perfectly predictable. It means we're committed to setting clear expectations, communicating when circumstances change, and standing behind our work.
I've personally had projects where making things right cost our business a significant amount of money.
Was it fun?
Absolutely not.
But the customer walked away happy, and we honored our responsibility.
When someone trusts us with their boat and their hard-earned money, that means something.
We're not perfect. But we care deeply about getting it right.
And we're never going to intentionally push you into an investment that doesn't make sense.
We're people taking care of people. If we wouldn't recommend it to our friends, we're not going to recommend it to you either.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Upgrades and Winter Boat Service in Maine
Is it worth upgrading an older pontoon boat?
Often, yes, if the pontoons, decking, transom, and other structural components are sound. New flooring, upholstery, steering, or an engine repower can improve an older pontoon's comfort and usability. The right investment depends on the boat's condition, the project cost, and how long you plan to keep it.
How much does it cost to restore an old pontoon boat?
It depends on the scope of work. Reupholstering a few seats is very different from replacing an entire deck, installing new flooring, or repowering the boat. Older boats can also reveal hidden damage during disassembly. Clark Marine recommends an evaluation and project-specific estimate before major restoration work begins.
Can you add hydraulic steering to an older pontoon?
Many outboard-powered pontoons can be converted from mechanical to hydraulic steering. Some compatible systems can also be upgraded to power-assisted steering. The appropriate setup depends on the boat, motor, mounting configuration, and existing equipment.
Can you turn a pontoon into a tritoon?
Some pontoons can be converted, including certain compatible Avalon models. A conversion may require a center pontoon, motor pod, appropriate steering, and a new engine. At Clark Marine, customers should generally budget at least $15,000 for the center pontoon portion alone, with additional costs for other components and labor. Every conversion requires an individual evaluation.
Is it cheaper to repower a boat or buy a new boat?
Repowering can be more affordable than replacing an entire boat when the existing boat is structurally sound and meets the owner's needs. However, the total project cost must account for the engine, rigging, controls, steering, installation, and any necessary repairs. If the boat also requires extensive structural restoration, replacement may make more financial sense.
How do I know when my outboard motor needs to be replaced?
Frequent breakdowns, persistent running problems despite proper diagnosis and repairs, major mechanical failure, or repair costs that are difficult to justify can all be reasons to consider a repower. A professional evaluation can help compare repair and replacement options.
What is included in a 300-hour outboard service?
A 300-hour service is a major scheduled maintenance service whose exact requirements vary by engine manufacturer and model. It may include inspecting or replacing water pump components, spark plugs, filters, fluids, and other manufacturer-specified items. Clark Marine recommends following the maintenance schedule for your specific engine rather than relying on a universal checklist.
When should I schedule winter boat repairs in Maine?
For major boat repairs, restorations, electronics installations, and repowers, Clark Marine recommends planning in the fall, ideally around November. Booking early provides more time for inspections, estimates, parts ordering, and scheduling before the spring boating rush.
Does Clark Marine work on boats purchased from other dealerships?
Yes! Clark Marine welcomes qualifying boats purchased from other dealerships. Service eligibility depends on the age, engine, type, condition, and requested work. Contact our team to determine whether your boat qualifies.
Where can I get boat upgrades, outboard repairs, or pontoon restoration near Augusta, Maine?
Clark Marine offers qualifying outboard engine services, repowers, steering upgrades, marine electronics installations, pontoon improvements, and winter service from our facilities in Manchester and Monmouth, Maine.
Our Manchester location is at 57 Puddledock Road, Manchester, ME 04351, just outside Augusta.
We regularly serve boaters around Cobbosseecontee Lake, Maranacook Lake, Great Pond, Long Pond, China Lake, the Winthrop Lakes Region, and throughout Central Maine, with customers also coming from farther across the state.
Ready to Fall in Love With Your Boat All Over Again?
Here's how it works.
When you contact Clark Marine about winter boat work, you'll speak with a member of our team—likely Brian, Isaac, or Ian—to discuss your boat and what you're hoping to accomplish.
Maybe you already have a complete wish list.
Maybe all you know is that you love your boat but wish it did a few things differently.
Either way, we'll help you make a plan.
We'll discuss your priorities, evaluate what's practical, provide recommendations, and prepare pricing for the agreed scope of work.
Once you're comfortable with the plan, we'll collect the applicable deposit, schedule the project, and get the party started.
And the communication?
That's up to you.
Want updates throughout the project? We're happy to provide them.
Prefer to hear from us when your boat is ready, unless something needs your attention? That works too.
You're in control. We're here to help.
Because Your Boat Is Supposed to Be Your Happy Place.
The world is chaotic enough.
For so many of us, our boats are where we go to escape the noise.
They're where we relax. Laugh. Fish. Float. Spend time with our families. Forget about work for a little while.
The last thing I want is for someone's boat to become another source of stress, unexpected bills, or ruined weekends.
I want you to know you have options.
You don't necessarily have to buy something new to have an incredible boating experience.
You can improve what you already have. You can invest in the things that matter most to you. You can make thoughtful maintenance decisions that help protect your boating season.
And because Clark Marine is open year-round, we can work on making your boat better while you're busy dreaming about summer.
You deserve to feel informed, empowered, and cared for when making decisions about your boat.
That's what we want for our customers.
And if there's one thing I hope you take away from all of this, it's that you don't have to figure it out alone.
We love boats. We love the people who own them. And we would genuinely love to help you make the most of yours.
So tell us...
What would make you love your boat just a little bit more?
Let's make it happen.
Start Planning Your Winter Boat Upgrades
Request a Boat Service or Upgrade Estimate →
Clark Marine
57 Puddledock Road, Manchester, ME 04351
Call or text: 207-622-7011
Outboard Service • Boat Repowers • Pontoon Restoration • Hydraulic Steering • Marine Electronics • Winter Boat Repairs
Proudly serving Maine's freshwater boating community since 1958.
Fun on the water starts here.