.png)
Boat Detailing & Oxidation Removal in New Bern, NC
Riptide Boat Repair restores faded, chalky, and oxidized gelcoat to a glossy, like-new finish. Whether your boat needs light polishing or heavy oxidation removal, we use professional compounds, marine-grade polishes, and proven techniques to bring back the shine. Mobile service available for light to moderate oxidation removal or bring your boat to our New Bern shop for full detailing and heavy oxidation work.
Our Boat Detailing & Oxidation Removal Services
Full Boat Detailing
Our comprehensive detailing service includes complete interior and exterior cleaning, surface restoration, and protection. We deep-clean every area of your boat to restore
a fresh, showroom-ready appearance.
What's included in full boat detailing:
Exterior Cleaning:
• Hull and deck washing with marine-safe cleaners
• Waterline stain removal
• Metal and chrome polishing
• Wax or sealant application
• UV protectant on all surfaces
Interior Deep Cleaning:
• Seat and cushion cleaning
• Carpet and flooring cleaning
• Storage compartment cleaning
• Dashboard and console cleaning
• Hatch and door cleaning
Vinyl Seat Cleaning & Protection:
• Remove dirt and stains from vinyl seats
• Brighten and restore appearance
• Apply marine-safe protectant to prevent drying and cracking
Mildew Removal:
• Remove mildew stains from seats, carpet, and surfaces
• Treat affected areas to help prevent future growth
Non-Skid Deck Cleaning:
• Deep-clean textured non-skid surfaces
• Remove dirt, grime, and buildup
• Restore traction and appearance
Perfect for:
Seasonal maintenance, pre-sale preparation, or bringing your boat back to showroom condition.
Typical turnaround: 2-5 days (depending on boat size and condition)
Oxidation Removal & Shine Restoration
Sun, salt water, and weather break down your boat's gelcoat over time, leaving it dull, chalky, and faded. Our oxidation removal process reverses that damage using marine-grade compounds and multi-step polishing to restore gloss, clarity, and depth—whether your boat has light surface oxidation or heavy.
Our oxidation removal process:
• Surface prep and cleaning
• Assessment of oxidation severity
• Compounding to remove oxidation (light or heavy-duty depending on condition)
• Multi-step polishing (compound, polish, finish)
• Wet sanding (if needed for severe oxidation)
• Wax, sealant, for UV protection
• Final inspection and quality check
We tailor the process to your boat's condition—from light surface oxidation to heavy chalky buildup. The result is a glossy, smooth finish that looks and feels like new.
Typical turnaround:
• Light to moderate oxidation: 1-2 days
• Heavy oxidation: 3-7 days (depending on severity and boat size)
See Our Detailing & Oxidation Results
👉 Visit our Facebook gallery
What Is Gelcoat Oxidation?
Gelcoat oxidation happens when UV rays, salt water, and environmental exposure break down the resin on your boat's surface. The result is a dull, chalky, faded finish that feels rough to the touch.
Signs your boat needs oxidation removal:
• Chalky white residue on the surface
• Faded or dull color (especially on dark gelcoat)
• Rough texture instead of smooth gloss
• Water doesn't bead up anymore
• Color rubs off on your hand when touched
Left untreated, oxidation continues to penetrate deeper into the gelcoat, eventually requiring more aggressive restoration or even gelcoat replacement. Regular detailing and oxidation removal protect your boat's finish and maintain its value.
The good news:
Most oxidation can be removed with professional compounding, polishing, and sealing. We restore gelcoat to a glossy, smooth finish that looks and feels like new.
Why Choose Riptide for Boat Detailing?
In-Shop Quality Control
All detailing and oxidation removal is done in our New Bern shop for controlled conditions and the highest-quality finish. No shortcuts.
Marine-Grade Products
We use professional compounds and polishes from 3M and MIRKA, marine wax, and UV protectants designed for saltwater and sun exposure.
Restore Value & Appearance
Regular detailing and oxidation removal protect your boat's gelcoat, maintain resale value, and keep your boat looking showroom-ready.
Boat Detailing & Oxidation Removal Service Area
Our detailing and oxidation removal work is in-shop only, serving:
• New Bern
• Havelock
• Craven County
• Pamlico County
Bring your boat to our shop for professional detailing and oxidation correction.
📍 115 N First Ave, New Bern, NC 28560
📞 252-229-9869
📧 Email Us
Get a Boat Detailing or Oxidation Removal Quote
Send us photos of your boat's current condition through or contact form. Tell us if you want detailing or oxidation removal. We'll provide a written estimate with timeline and pricing.
Call or text: 252-229-9869
What Our New Bern Customers Are Saying
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I brought my 20-foot center console into Riptide's shop in New Bern for a full detailing and oxidation removal. The gelcoat was badly faded, but after their in-shop polish and wax, it shines like it just came off the showroom floor. Super friendly team, fair price, and you can tell they take real pride in their work. I'll definitely be bringing my boat back at the end of the season."
— Kevin P., New Bern, NC