The Ultimate Pre-Launch Checklist: What Every Yacht Owner Should Know Before Spring

In New England, a smooth launch isn’t something you hope for — it’s something you plan for.

After decades on the water, I can tell you this with certainty: the difference between a flawless start to the season and a frustrating one almost always comes down to what was done before the boat ever touched the water. Winter is not downtime. Winter is when smart yacht owners prepare.

Here’s what every luxury yacht owner should be thinking about before spring arrives.

---

1. Systems Don’t Wake Up on Their Own

Modern yachts — especially vessels like Princess Yachts — are built on sophisticated systems that demand professional attention after winter layup. Thrusters, automation, stabilization, water systems — these aren’t items you “check later.” At Harrington Marine Services, we begin with full diagnostics, ensuring that all marine comfort systems work worry free. Lights, refrigeration, sanitation and plumbing.

We test accessory systems like Sleipner Side-Power thrusters, to ensure the system responds instantly, controls are calibrated, and performance is exactly as designed.

---

2. Clean Systems Protect Your Investment

Water quality and internal system health are non-negotiable on your vessel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pod6tN2-Esk

That’s why we inspect and service ElectroSea and Spot Zero systems during the off-season. These technologies protect plumbing, and onboard comfort — but only when they’re properly maintained and commissioned.

Spring is not the time to discover something was overlooked.

---

3. Automation Should Be Seamless, Not Surprising

Luxury today means automation that works quietly and reliably in the background.

We perform pre-season reviews and updates on Navigation, Audio and Böning Ship Automation systems to ensure displays, alerts, and controls function exactly as intended.

Owners shouldn’t be troubleshooting software at the dock — that’s our job.

---

4. Tenders and Lifts Deserve the Same Attention as the Yacht

For many owners, the tender is the most used vessel onboard.

As an exclusive dealer for Williams Jet Tenders, we ensure tenders are fully serviced, tested, and launch-ready well before spring. We also inspect FreedomLift systems to confirm smooth, safe operation from day one.

A tender problem can derail an entire weekend — and that’s easily avoided with proper planning.

---

5. Parts, Scheduling, and Timing Matter

Spring in New England is short. Launch windows are tight. Parts availability matters.

Pre-season planning allows us to source manufacturer-approved components, schedule commissioning efficiently, and avoid last-minute delays. This is where experience matters most — and where Harrington Marine Services separates itself.

Luxury Marine Management, Simplified

Our clients come to us because they want it done right — by certified professionals who understand their yacht, their systems, and their expectations.

A smooth launch doesn’t happen by chance. It happens because the right work was done, at the right time, by the right crew. Spring will be here before you know it. Let’s make sure your season starts the way it should.

Harrington Marine is a North Kingstown, Rhode Island–based luxury marine services company providing expert yacht management, service, and operational support. With a hands-on, experience-driven approach, Harrington Marine provides trusted guidance to vessel owners throughout New England and beyond.

Visit hmsri.com or call 401-480-7058