When it comes to yacht maintenance, most owners understand the importance of bottom painting, detailing, and engine care. However, one area that often goes overlooked is the condition of the running gear beneath the waterline. Propellers, shafts, struts, and trim tabs are constantly exposed to marine growth and friction, and their performance plays a significant role in how efficiently a yacht moves through the water. This is where Prop Speed comes in; a specialized coating designed to enhance propulsion performance, reduce drag, and prevent fouling. For yacht owners looking to maximize speed, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability, Prop Speed is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.
At Horizon Marine Services, our technicians apply Prop Speed with the precision it requires, ensuring the coating bonds properly and delivers long-lasting results. To understand why this product has become a preferred choice among yacht owners and captains, it helps to look at what Prop Speed does and how it transforms the performance of your vessel.
What Makes Prop Speed Different
Traditional antifouling paints work well on hulls but are not suitable for metal running gear. Prop Speed is specifically engineered for propellers and submerged metals, creating an ultra-slick, silicone-based surface that prevents barnacles, algae, and other marine organisms from attaching. Instead of relying on biocides, the coating uses a smooth finish that makes it nearly impossible for growth to cling to the metal. This means your running gear stays clean far longer, even in warm and active marine environments.
Unlike conventional coatings, Prop Speed is designed to withstand the constant movement and rotational forces of propellers without peeling or flaking when applied correctly. It remains firmly bonded to the surface, performing reliably through extended use, high-speed operation, and varying water conditions.
Reducing Drag and Improving Speed
One of the most immediate benefits of Prop Speed is its ability to reduce drag. Marine growth accumulates quickly on bare metal, creating resistance that forces your engines to work harder. Even a thin layer of growth on the props can significantly impact speed and acceleration. With Prop Speed applied, the running gear maintains a clean, low-friction surface that slices through the water more efficiently.
For owners who value performance, this translates into smoother operation and improved responsiveness at the helm. Many boaters report noticeable improvements in acceleration and top-end speed after coating their running gear with Prop Speed. The reduction in drag also places less strain on the engine, allowing it to operate more comfortably and consistently.
Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings
Fuel consumption is one of the largest ongoing expenses for yacht owners. When marine growth accumulates on props and shafts, the engines must burn more fuel to push the vessel through the water. Studies have shown that fouling can increase fuel usage dramatically, especially for yachts with twin-engine setups or vessels that travel long distances.
By keeping the running gear clean, Prop Speed directly reduces the amount of energy required to maintain cruising speeds. Over an entire season, this improved efficiency can lead to substantial fuel savings. Beyond fuel, less strain on the engine and propulsion system also means fewer maintenance issues, extending the life of critical components.
A Longer-Lasting Solution for Marine Growth
One of the reasons Prop Speed has become so popular is its durability. While many coatings require frequent reapplication, Prop Speed typically lasts much longer when properly applied. Its slick, chemical-free surface continues to resist growth even with constant use, making it a preferred choice for both recreational boaters and commercial operators. A well-applied Prop Speed coating can last through multiple haul-outs, giving owners long-term value.
Why Professional Application Matters
Prop Speed is highly effective, but it must be applied with care. The process involves multiple stages, beginning with cleaning and sanding the metal to create a strong bonding surface. After that, an etching primer is applied, followed by the specialized clear topcoat. Each step must be performed under the right conditions, and timing is critical for proper curing. Any mistakes during preparation or application can lead to coating failure, peeling, or reduced lifespan.
At Horizon Marine Services, our technicians are trained to follow manufacturer specifications exactly. We apply Prop Speed in controlled conditions to ensure every layer adheres correctly and cures with maximum durability. This attention to detail ensures your running gear receives the full benefits of the coating.
Enhancing the Life and Performance of Your Yacht
Prop Speed is more than a protective coating, it’s a performance upgrade that offers ongoing benefits. Cleaner running gear means smoother operation, better maneuverability, and increased confidence at the helm. Whether you run a sportfisher, motor yacht, center console, or cruising vessel, the coating delivers reliable performance and noticeable improvements you can feel every time you throttle up.
If you want to optimize fuel efficiency, extend the life of your propulsion system, and experience smoother operation on the water, Prop Speed is an investment worth considering. Horizon Marine Services is here to help you experience the full advantages of this innovative coating with expert application and exceptional attention to detail.