The 9 Best Boat Waxes For Any Type Of Boat
No one wants to be the owner of the shabbiest boat in the marina. A boat that isn’t waxed regularly with a quality boat wax can become a victim of oxidation. It’s also much harder to clean after you’ve been out fishing!
A quality boat wax needs to be applied regularly to keep your boat in the best possible condition. You can also be the envy of the whole marina with your new shiny boat hull!
What’s the best boat wax?
The best marine wax for your boat includes:
- Boat Bling Quickie Fast Wax
- Meguiar’s Flagship Wax
- Meguiar’s M4965 Wax Kit
- Better Boat Marine Wax
- Lucas Oil 10980 Slick Mist Wax
- AquaDoc Marine Wax
- 3M Scotchgard Liquid Wax
- Malco Nano Care Marine Wax
- Meguiar’s Carnauba M5616 Wax
- Collinite Marine Cleaner & Wax
So you know it’s important to use the right kind of wax on your boat. We’ve researched and reviewed hundreds of products to find the best boat wax for you to use on your boat. You can rest assured that the boat waxes we’ve reviewed in detail below will be perfect for your needs!
Take a look at the best boat waxes for your boat to keep it protected from the corrosive ocean environment.
The 9 Best Boat Waxes
Best For Fiberglass Boat: Boat Bling Quickie Sauce Premium High-Gloss Fast Wax
The Boat Bling Quickie Sauce premium high-gloss fast wax is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a super quick product. You won’t have to spend hours applying wax with this product in your boating arsenal.
This particular product works to give you the protection of pure wax, but in half the time it takes to apply other products. When combined with the Boat Bling range, you can easily cover your boat’s maintenance throughout the year.
A handy feature of this boat wax that makes it easily earn our spot of top pick is that it’s suitable for use on all types of watercraft. So you won’t have to worry about Googling for ages to make sure it’s 100% safe to use with your particular boat!
Boat Bling Quickie Sauce is suitable for use on fishing boats, cruisers, pontoons, and even jet skis. This boat wax is safe for use on fiberglass, vinyl decals, and painted surfaces.
The great thing about the Boat Bling range is that they have been designed for boaters, by boaters. This Quickie Sauce dries to a haze. This makes it easy to remove any residue that might get leftover afterward.
The boat wax is also super easy to remove when you need to apply a fresh coat in a few month’s time. Especially if you use the Boat Bling range to keep your boat in top condition.
This particular boat wax will last for between 3 to 4 months. This means that your boat will get the right amount of protection it needs before you need to refresh the application of boat wax.
It works to protect the most exposed areas of your boat as well as around the waterline. This boat wax is easy to apply, maintain, and remove as needed.
Pros:
- Easy to use – super easy to apply to your boat and maintain over time
- Long lasting – one application lasts for between 3 to 4 months
- Versatile – can be used on all types of watercraft
Cons:
- Overspray – can sometimes leave a residue when sprayed on a surface which can be wiped off
Who Should Buy This Wax
We prefer this wax for fiberglass boats, so anybody who owns one can use it. But it’s versatile enough to use on nearly all boat surfaces, including painted and vinyl finishes.
It’s also recommended for less experienced boat owners. The spray-on application method is more manageable and requires no additional tools so that any first-time wax user can handle it without help from a professional.
Where To Buy This Wax
- This marine wax is available on Amazon for $24.95 per bottle. It’s sold in massive 32-ounce bottles, so expect plenty of use from each.
It’s also available directly from Bling Sauce for the same pricing. But expect slower shipping times.
Best For Aluminum Boat: Meguiar’s Flagship Premium Marine Wax
The Meguiar’s Flagship premium marine wax is just the thing you need for your boat. This particular wax works to give you the best protection for your boat.
The premium marine wax works to protect your boat hull from UV damage and wear which can happen while it’s out on the water. So once you have applied this marine wax to your boat, you won’t have to worry about oxidation.
Another feature of this boat wax is that it’s super easy to use. The formula has been designed to offer you superior long lasting protection.
It leaves a noticeable gloss once applied. This will be great if you want to keep your boat looking its best! The boat wax works to deliver a beautiful shine to fiberglass and gel coat surfaces.
You can easily choose how to apply this boat wax to your watercraft. It can be used with hand pads or a polisher, whichever is easiest for you to use with your boat. It will be effective both when applied by hand or when applied with a polisher. This is great if you want to avoid waxes that can only be used a certain way.
What’s really great about Meguiar’s Flagship Premium Marine wax is that it comes with a variety of uses. You can use this boat wax to remove light oxidation, swirls, and fine scratches. It also works to dramatically enrich the color and shine of your hull. Perfect if you want your boat to look its best!
Pros:
- Versatile – can be used to remove scratches, swirls, and light oxidation
- Easy to apply – you can use either hand pads or a polisher for easy application
- Superior protection – will protect your boat from UV damage and wear
Cons:
- Not as glossy – some customers found the boat wax wasn’t as glossy as they thought it would be
Who Should Buy This Wax
We can guarantee the success of this product for all aluminum boat owners because of our previous experience using it. After applying this wax, we saw increased durability, shine, and protection for our boat.
While we prefer to use it on aluminum boats, it provides enough versatility to work on fiberglass and gel coat surfaces too. It’s also recommended for people struggling with boat oxidation.
Where To Buy This Wax
- This is one of the most popular marine wax options, so that it can be found everywhere. We recommend Amazon because of the low pricing and faster shipping times.
- It’s also available directly from Meguiars, but delivery times are typically slower when ordering here.
Best Wax and Polish Kit: Meguiar’s M4965 Marine Restoration Kit
The Meguiar’s M4965 Marine Restoration Kit is comprehensive and contains everything needed to restore, shine, clean, and wax a boat. It works best on fiberglass boats, and the oxidation remover helps remove defects for an improved gloss finish.
This kit includes everything we need to keep our boat looking its best while maintaining a long-lasting showroom shine. It will keep the boat looking cleaner and newer.
Every kit has an extra-strength cleaner, a premium marine paste wax that provides superior UV protection and intense gloss, a protective polymer sealant that leaves the surfaces slick and smooth, plus brush heads and polishing cloths.
Why We Recommend This Wax
With this all-in-one package, we can easily clean, restore and protect painted surfaces against harsh marine environments like saltwater spray or ultraviolet rays with just one application. This saves us time and money.
Its advanced micro-abrasive technology removes oxidation without leaving swirls or scuff marks on paint finishes making it ideal for use on gel coat fiberglass metal and painted surfaces.
Pros
- Long-lasting protection
- Excellent shine and cleaning capabilities
- Comprehensive kit with plenty of accessories
- Easy to use for beginners
Cons
- It does not work as well for aluminum boats
Who Should Buy This Wax
This wax truly does it all and works on all boat surfaces. For example, we tested this product on a faded gel-coat surface boat and saw a renewed finish with a better shine, more color, and a shiny gloss.
It also does well to smooth imperfections on the boat’s surface. This is the best boat wax kit if the boat’s exterior has many knicks and scratches.
Where To Buy This Wax
- We recommend going to Amazon to find this boat wax kit. Pricing starts at $35.49.
- Most boat owners also prefer to shop directly at Meguiar’s instead.
Best Budget: Better Boat Marine Wax & Polish
The Better Boat Marine Wax & Polish is an excellent budget marine wax that provides solid protection. It will keep the boat shining and stronger against UV rays and salt water while making it look great.
This wax repels water and prevents oxidation, so users can expect their boats to look newer for longer. It also reduces drag on the hull for improved efficiency.
The easy application can be applied by hand or with a buffer for maximum convenience. And it’s durable because it shields from UV damage, meaning we won’t have to worry about fading or cracking over time.
Why We Recommend This Wax
First, we love this wax because it’s cheap and easy to use. The boat wax is applied using an applicator, mechanical buffer, or a clean cloth, and it works exceptionally well on oxidized boating surfaces.
It’s a great choice for anyone looking to bring back the luster and shine of their boat’s finish with minimal effort. The wax uses an advanced micro-emulsion formula that helps protect and preserve the boat’s gel coat finish from UV damage, fading, etc.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Provides long-lasting UV protection
- Produces a glossy finish that lasts longer than waxes at twice the price
- It can be applied in direct sunlight without burning or hazing
Cons
- It is not as long-lasting as higher-end polishes and waxes
- It contains some petroleum distillates that may harm the paint on older boats
Who Should Buy This Wax
Not only does this product make our boat look amazing, but it also helps to keep it in tip-top shape over time by providing long-lasting protection. This wax can be used on fiberglass, aluminum, pontoon, etc.
But remember, this is a budget option, so it doesn’t have the same strength as other options mentioned. Choose this boat wax to save a few bucks and expect good results.
Where To Buy This Wax
- This wax is selling on Amazon for only $19.99. That includes a 16-ounce bottle which will last for multiple uses.
Best Spray-On Wax: Lucas Oil 10980 Slick Mist Marine Wax
The Lucas Oil 10980 Slick Mist Marine Wax quickly and effectively seals in shine and provides superior protection against salt water and other environmental contaminants. It’s been tested extensively to ensure maximum performance in weather or water conditions.
This unique aerosol wax can be applied directly onto the surface with no buffing required afterward. It effectively seals and shines the boat’s exterior while providing superior protection.
The combination of carnauba and synthetic polymers leaves behind a shiny layer that lasts up to 4 months without having to reapply more product each time. It’s hard to find a better option for quick waxing needs.
Why We Recommend This Wax
We highly recommend this boat wax for anyone looking for a convenient way to keep their boats looking good. Users can expect maximum protection against sun exposure, corrosion, oxidation, and staining caused by sea salt air pollutants.
We also love it because it is faster and simpler than traditional buffing waxes, which require much more work. We won’t need advanced equipment to apply this to the boat, but this decreases longevity.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy-to-use spray application
- Low cost
- Versatile and works on multiple boat surface types
Cons
- Not as long-lasting as a traditional marine boat wax
Who Should Buy This Wax
This wax is best for beginner boaters with minimal wax experience. It’s easy to apply and requires no complex tooling. It does well against bugs and dirt on gel coat and painted surfaces.
The only downside of this product may be that it provides less protection against UV radiation than some competitors do. We suggest adding a separate UV protectant if you leave your boat or watercraft outside during the long summer or winter months too often.
Where To Buy This Wax
- We recommend Amazon as the first place to look to find this wax for $13.28 per bottle.
- It’s also available from Lucas Oil, where they will point you to the closest local retailer.
Best For White Hulls: AquaDoc Marine Polish Boat Wax
Another primary concern for boat owners is protecting white hulls. It’s a tall task, but luckily we have the AquaDoc Marine Polish Boat Wax to do the trick. It’s a cheap high gloss spray-on wax that’s easy to use too.
I never felt overwhelmed using this polish and wax on my boat. The application process is straightforward with a simple spray-on method.
Polymer protection is also a great point of this product. It keeps the outside of the boat shiny, clean, and durable. Expect the best results when using it on fiberglass and gel-coat boat surfaces.
Why We Recommend This Wax
I noticed how easily it fought off saltwater stains on the white hull when using this wax. This had been a significant problem in the past, and finding a boat wax to do the trick was nearly impossible before AquaDoc.
I also love how much easier it is to clean my boat after using this wax. It removes grime, dirt, and debris well, making the surface smoother for future cleanings.
For anybody still wondering if this wax is for them, I was once asked if I had bought a brand new boat after polishing the white hull with this product. Give it a chance, and it’ll blow away any expectations.
Pros
- Provides a protective layer against UV rays, saltwater, pollutants, etc.
- Improves the boat’s appearance by restoring shine and gloss
- Easy to apply and remove with a soft cloth or polishing pad
- It can help prevent oxidation and other forms of corrosion
- Long-lasting formula that may only require reapplication once or twice a year
- Safe to use on a variety of boat surfaces
Cons
- It does not provide as deep of a shine as some other boat wax brands
- It requires some elbow grease to apply after spraying
Who Should Buy This Wax
This wax works for all boat types. But we prefer using it on white hulls because it targets saltwater discoloration exceptionally well.
We prefer higher-quality options for darker boats. For example, it’s less powerful and won’t create the shine and gloss finish we want on a black hull.
Where To Buy This Wax
- For only $19.99, this wax can be found on Amazon with fast delivery times.
- AquaDoc also sells bottles slightly cheaper than Amazon. They are also available in 1-packs, 3-packs, and 12-packs.
3M Marine Restorer & Wax
If your boat has already suffered from oxidation because of inferior products or because of being left alone for too long, then the 3M Marine Restorer & Wax is just the product you need. This particular boat wax works to remove heavy oxidation from your boat. So you’ll be able to get your beloved boat back in the condition it should be in no time at all.
This product works to polish and restore both shine and color to your boat. You won’t have to worry about keeping it hidden under tarpaulin once you’ve applied this boat wax.
You can restore your boat to its former glory ready for your next trip out on the waves! This product actively works to retard UV light damage, so you can make your boat the beautiful watercraft that it was intended to be.
What’s really great about this product is that it uses a unique formula to combine a rubbing compound with wax. That means it will be able to do the work of two different products all in one handy application! This will be perfect for you if you don’t want to buy multiple products to get your boat back in shape.
Once this product has worked to restore your boat’s appearance, it will leave a brilliant protective gloss finish. This will actively work to protect your boat from further oxidation, so all of your hard work won’t be wasted.
Pros:
- Restore – actively works to remove heavy oxidation from your boat
- Versatile – works to remove damage and protect your boat from further oxidation
- Unique formula – makes use of two great products in one application
Cons:
- Thick – comes out quite thick from the bottle
Star Brite Premium Cleaner Wax
The Star Brite Premium Cleaner Wax is just the thing to buy if you’re looking for a product that’s going to make your cleaning job easier. This particular product works to clean the hull of your boat as you apply it for protection against oxidation.
Star Brite Premium Cleaner Wax works to clean, shine, and protect your boat all in one glorious application. Perfect if you don’t want to have to buy multiple products to do the same job.
This wax is super easy to use. Simply apply it to your boat in a circular motion, and rub at chalk, oxidation, and stains while the wax is wet. Once the wax has dried to a haze, wipe away any leftover residue with a clean towel or cloth. You won’t have to worry about buying any additional expensive equipment to use the cleaner wax.
What’s really great about this wax is that it comes with UV inhibitors. This helps to prevent your boat from oxidation and fading which can happen in marine environments. You can stay safe in the knowledge that your boat will be sufficiently protected from any harmful UV rays or other factors it might encounter.
This particular boat wax has been designed with fiberglass, metals, and painted surfaces in mind. This makes it great for using on pretty much most watercraft surfaces.
Pros:
- Easier cleaning – works to clean and protect your boat
- Easy to use – you won’t have to buy extra tools to apply it
- UV protection – protects your boat from fading and oxidation
Cons:
- Drying – wax can take a while to dry if applied too thickly
Best Liquid Wax: 3M Scotchgard Marine Liquid Wax
Liquid wax is a premium product that provides better results. The 3M Scotchgard Marine Liquid Wax is a good example, and I noticed much better boat protection and gloss while using it on my boat.
The 3M Scotchgard Marine Liquid Wax also offers easy application. All we have to do is spread it onto the boat’s surface by hand or with a buffer, let it sit for 10 minutes, then buff it off with an orbital polisher or a clean microfiber cloth.
Why We Recommend This Wax
What sets this wax apart from ordinary boat waxes is its advanced formula of premium silicones and polymers in combination with UV blockers to form an unbeatable protective layer on boat surfaces.
The silicone component of the wax reduces friction and wear while preventing water spots, oxidation, and dirt build-up. The polymer component adds superior gloss retention, and the UV blocker protects against sun damage to maintain the boat’s vibrant color over time.
Pros
- Excellent saltwater resistance
- It applies to all types of boat surfaces
- One of the best options for those who prefer a high-gloss finish
- Long-lasting
Cons
- A little harder to apply to the boat because it’s liquid
- More expensive
Who Should Buy This Wax
This liquid is a must-have product for anybody who loves being on the water. The wax is designed to maximize shine and protect the boat’s finish from sun, saltwater, and pollutants.
It also provides UV protection, preventing fading and oxidation. The beauty is how versatile this wax is.
It’ll work on nearly every boat surface, including gel coat and fiberglass. The superior coverage ensures that every inch of our boat is protected while maintaining a glossy shine no matter how often we hit the open seas.
Where To Buy This Wax
Pricing starts at $23.93 on Amazon for a small 16.9-ounce bottle.
Buyer’s Guide
Searching for the best boat wax can be a challenge. There are so many different types of boat wax available, it can be a confusing experience when trying to find the best product for your needs.
How can you be sure that your chosen product is perfect for your specific type of boat? What are the important factors you will need to consider when choosing the right boat wax for your boat?
We’ve collated all the crucial information you’ll need to find the right boat wax for your needs in our handy buyer’s guide below. As long as your chosen product matches these below factors, you can rest assured that you’re on the right track!
Take a look at all the factors you will need to consider below or skip ahead to the frequently asked questions.
Easy application
You should opt for a product that is easy to use. Take a look at the bottle or tub that the boat wax comes in.
Can you easily apply it to the exterior of your boat without having to use any additional tools? This will make your job much easier in the long run, as you won’t have to use any convoluted equipment just to apply the coat of wax.
Long lasting
You should opt for a boat wax that is durable and will last you for a long time in between applications. Most boat wax tends to protect your boat for between 3 to 4 months.
You should ensure that your chosen product is able to do this. Not only will it give your boat superior protection, but it will also mean that you have to apply it less frequently.
A boat wax that doesn’t last as long will need to be applied more frequently, which will be a pain when you just want to take your boat out on the ocean waves.
Versatile
One of the most important factors to consider is how versatile your chosen boat wax is. Depending on the materials of your boat, you may need to buy a specific wax that helps protect it from things like oxidation. Your chosen boat wax should tell you what surfaces it’s suitable for use with.
Many people tend to use boat wax on their cars, too, to get them to shine. You should ensure that the boat wax is suitable for use with your particular boat before you buy it.
UV protection
Good quality boat wax should work to give your boat UV protection. This works to prevent your boat’s colors from fading, or from falling victim to oxidation.
This is the most important factor you will need to consider when choosing a boat wax for your boat. There’s no point in buying a boat wax that doesn’t do the job it’s been designed for!
Natural wax
You should opt for a natural wax such as carnauba wax for your boat. This type of wax is suitable for use with boats, and will work to keep your boat protected from the elements.
If the wax has been manufactured using chemicals or something similar, it may damage your boat more than it protects it. Ensure that your chosen product uses a natural wax before you commit to buying it.
Quick drying
Another factor that will be handy is to choose a quick drying wax. There’s nothing worse than applying a coat of wax only to find it takes forever to dry!
You should opt for a boat wax that’s capable of drying fairly quickly once it has been applied to your boat’s surface.
Types Of Boat Waxes
Waxing boats gives them a beautiful shine and protects the boat hull from water and UV damage. Each boat needs a specific type of wax for optimal performance and protection.
Several different types of boat wax available today range from basic protection to more specialized applications. We have listed each of them below.
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax is often used as the base for many boat wax products due to its superior strength and durability in protecting against sun fading and oxidation. It won’t wash away any existing dirt.
But it protects against saltwater corrosion and everyday elements like bird droppings or bug splatters. The ingredients are pure with no grit, and many boat owners love it because of its fantastic gloss and shine properties.
Cleaner Wax
Cleaner wax removes light scratches, scuffs, dirt, grease buildup, and other dirt particles from any surface without scratching or damaging it. The gentle scrubbing properties are helpful for dirtier boats.
It polishes away surface contaminants while leaving behind a protective layer of wax protection. This makes future washdowns easier and prevents further harm or damage to the boat’s hull from harsh elements such as UV rays and saltwater exposure.
Restoration Wax
A restoration wax is only recommended for old or damaged boats. They are stronger and designed to bring old surfaces back to life with a new look, gloss, and shine.
Polishing Wax
A polishing wax is preferred for boat owners who like a bright shine. It’s similar to Carnauba wax but contains synthetic polymers instead of all-natural ingredients.
This is why polishing waxes tend to be more durable. They have stronger materials to fight off saltwater, UV raves, etc.
How To Properly Apply Marine Wax
Depending on the wax type, the application process will vary. We have outlined the steps to put marine wax on a boat below while avoiding common mistakes.
Wash The Boat
Before applying any marine wax, we need to do boat washing to begin the waxing process with a clean surface. Use a soap-based cleaner designed for boats to remove all dirt, grime, and other debris before wax application.
Follow up by rinsing the entire surface thoroughly with fresh water. This should wash off any excess debris that could hinder our ability to apply the wax properly.
It also helps act as an adhesive between the layers. This makes it easier to apply multiple coats without worrying about them peeling off in areas with extreme movement or constant wear and tear from frequent usage throughout the seasons.
Prepare The Surface
Once the area is cleaned and dried properly, use a buffer or polisher to prepare for the wax application. This will help create maximum product adhesion within each crevice and help create an even coat after the application is complete.
Apply The Wax
After buffing and preparing the boat’s surface, we can apply the marine wax using either a foam applicator or a microfiber cloth.
Ensure that when handling products containing solvents or petrochemicals indoors, they are done so in well-ventilated areas. The fumes can become hazardous after excessive exposure, so we prepare to apply the wax outdoors when possible.
Avoiding creating puddles or pools on the surface when applying the wax is essential. These can leave uneven coats, which may cause blistering later after the boat gets exposed to sun, heat, and moisture.
Let It Sit & Dry
After applying the wax, allow roughly 15 minutes for it to dry. We can also smooth areas as needed, but it’s better to let the wax dry before buffing and smoothing it out.
Buff It Again
Lastly, repeat the same buffing process as before. This can be done by hand with a cloth or with a heavy-duty buffing tool. Use a circular motion around the boat for a better shine and gloss finish.
The boat will start to look shiny and much cleaner during this step. Spend about 15 minutes on this step before taking a step back and admiring the new look of your boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wax to use on a boat?
The best waxes for using on a boat are:
- Boat Bling Quickie Sauce Premium High-Gloss Fast Wax
- Meguiar’s Flagship Premium Marine Wax
- 3M Marine Restorer & Wax
- Star Brite Premium Cleaner Wax
- 3M Scotchgard Marine Liquid Wax
You should ensure that your chosen wax is made from natural wax, like carnauba wax, as this is best suited for use on boats.
Can you wax a boat in the water?
You can indeed wax a boat in the water. This is not only a convenient way to wax your boat, but it can also save you the cost and hassle of removing it from the water only to have to put it back in again.
You should ensure that you have everything with you when you start to wax your boat, as most of this work will be done away from the dock. Ensure that you shut off and unplug any dock power to the boat, just to make sure you won’t get electrocuted in case something goes wrong.
How long does boat wax last?
Boat wax typically lasts for between 3 to 4 months depending on the product you use. You should apply a new coat of wax every 3 to 4 months to keep the hull in tip top shape.
You should also wash your boat hull down with a compatible soap for your wax every month.
Can You Use Car Wax On A Boat?
Yes, we can use car wax on a boat, but it’s not the most efficient way to maintain a boat. Car wax will not provide enough durability and protection to keep a boat in good shape.
Car wax must also be applied to the surface of a vehicle (and a boat) more frequently. One coating of marine wax lasts longer. This is why boats and RVs often use the same wax because they have a fiberglass exterior.
However, using car wax in an emergency on a boat is not the worst thing that can happen. Remember to apply marine wax next time because it lasts longer, provides better surface protection, and offers more compatibility with boat construction materials.
How Often Should You Wax Your Boat?
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend waxing a boat at least twice a year. This is the minimum maintenance required to avoid fading, hazing, or excessive sunlight exposure to the boat’s exterior.
The answer to this also depends mainly on the type of boat we have and where and how often we use it. For example, fiberglass boats are less durable, so they should be waxed three times if possible. An aluminum boat can hold up better, so twice should do the trick.
The type of wax used and water the boat gets used in also matter. A more durable marine wax product can provide better protection for 3-6 months, so few wax applications are required.
Saltwater is also more of a problem for a boat. We recommend waxing every three months if the boat constantly gets saltwater and sunlight exposure.
How Many Coats Of Marine Wax Should You Put On A Boat?
One of the best ways to protect a boat is by applying a good coat of marine wax. We recommend two coats of wax every time for added protection too.
One coat should be a cleaner, and the second should be the paste wax. Combining these two coats will protect against saltwater, sunlight, dirt, etc.
It’s also possible to add a third coat if the wax kit has a polisher. This will help seal any gaps before applying the protective coating while protecting against water infiltration damage over time.