Preparing Our Speedboats for Dry Dock in the Post-Season

As the vibrant summer season in Croatia slowly winds down, Zadar Archipelago Speedboat Tours begins the transition to dry dock, where our fleet undergoes essential maintenance.
While the Adriatic sun still shines and the sea beckons adventurers, the tourist demands across the entire country start to taper off, allowing us to prepare for the quieter months ahead.
But what exactly happens when the tourist season ends, and where do our speedboats go?
How Do Speedboats Get Out of the Water?
When the summer begins to wane, not all of our speedboats come straight out of the water at once. We like to keep at least one boat available until the end of September for those late-season explorers, but the rest of the fleet gradually heads toward dry dock as demand slows.

To remove the boats from the water, we rely on boat lifts that pull the speedboat out of the water and onto a specialized trailer, ready for transport. This process requires precision and care, as the hull and structure of the speedboat must remain in perfect condition for the next season.
For this procedure, the most seasoned skippers are employed, to oversee and delegate the entire process.
Where Do the Speedboats Go Once They’re Out of the Water?
Once lifted out, our speedboats are transported to nearby storage and maintenance facilities, where they are prepped for the off-season. These storage areas are secure, ensuring our boats are protected from the elements while out of the water.
Our Lolivul 9 tender type speedboats, in particular, are relatively easy to maintain once out of the water, except for one crucial aspect — the engines. These top-of-the-line engines are high-performance, but they are also expensive and delicate to maintain.

Ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently requires a significant investment in care and expertise, which is a commitment we make gladly, prioritizing guest safety and satisfaction.
What Happens Before the Boats Are Stored?
There are several steps we must follow before placing the speedboats into storage. Firstly, we remove the engines and transport them separately to a specialized facility for their yearly check-up and maintenance.
Additionally, all onboard equipment, from navigation systems to life jackets and other safety gear, is inspected. Any damaged or worn-out components are replaced to ensure our guests always have the safest and best-equipped boat available.
What Happens If Something Is Damaged?
Occasionally, after a busy summer of tours and high-speed adventures, some damage may be found on a speedboat. This could be anything from a small hull scratch to more complex issues in the propulsion system.

In these cases, repairs are conducted immediately by specialized marine technicians to ensure that no further damage occurs. Our goal is to address any issues as soon as they arise, so the boats are not only ready for next season but are always in pristine condition.
How Is Maintenance Performed in the Dry Dock?
The bulk of our annual maintenance happens when the speedboats are in dry dock. This allows our team to perform a thorough check of the hull and clean any marine growth from the bottom. For the Lolivul 9 boats, this process is typically smooth, as they are designed with low-maintenance hulls.

Each boat’s electrical systems are also inspected, ensuring that all lights, communication devices, and safety features are functioning correctly. With a focus on preventative care, our dry dock maintenance helps us avoid potential issues that could arise mid-season, guaranteeing smooth operation for our tours and the utmost safety for our guests.
Our Commitment to Safety and Excellence
While the cost of maintaining our high-performance engines and top-of-the-line equipment is significant, it’s a necessary investment to ensure that our guests experience nothing short of excellence on the water. At Zadar Archipelago, safety is our top priority.
We want our passengers to feel secure and excited for every tour, knowing that our fleet is cared for with the highest standards.

As we gradually move our fleet into dry dock and storage, we’re also already preparing for the next season, eager to welcome back our guests to the beauty of the Croatian islands and the thrill of a speedboat ride through the Adriatic.
Looking Forward to the Next Season
While the summer winds down, there’s still time for a few more exciting trips until the end of September, with at least one of our speedboats always ready for action. As our fleet begins its journey to dry dock, we reflect on the wonderful summer we’ve had and look forward to another successful season ahead.

We’re proud of our fleet of Lolivul 9 speedboats and our commitment to the meticulous care that keeps them in top shape. Zadar Archipelago is committed to maintaining a fleet that is safe, fast, and always ready for adventure. For all guests this season, thank you for another unforgettable summer, and we’ll see you on the water next year!