Antifouling is a fact of marine life, boats are in the water and they get covered in barnacles and other sea creatures.

Freshwater boats don’t get barnacles, but depending where they are they may need an antifouling treatment, because they can be covered in slime or weeds. All types of water contain microorganisms that are harmful to a craft.

Biological fouling is the accumulation of microorganisms, algae and creatures on the hull of yacht, which if left untreated will slow the boat down. Yachts need to have an antifouling paint applied because although the speed reduction may not be important, the increased fuel costs can be high.

Non-toxic antifouling coatings are environmentally friendly and prevent further microorganisms attaching. The process of painting the vessel is done out of water and all owners have to factor this into the cost of maintaining a boat because it is usually done once a season.