General Information on Maintenance and

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Holby Marine uses a wide range of gel coat colors and often are able to accommodate any requests.  We also have experienced Awl Grip painters that provide you with even more options.

Q: What is better, Gel coat or Awl Grip?

A: Both gel coat and Awl Grip are excellent choices and will provide years of enjoyment.  The benefit of gel coat is it is some what more durable then Awl Grip.  Gel coat does not scratch as easily and is easier to repair in the event of damage.  However, Awl Grip provides a excellent finish that maintains its dark color tones with little maintenance.  Awl Grip is often an excellent choice for dark colors.

Q: Why is it that the Pilot boats do not have strakes that you often see on many other boats?

A: The designer of the Pilot 20 and 24, Mark Ellis, is a renowned designer that has many years of experience.  Mark has designed the Pilots to ride smoothly and require less power to plane with the wide hard chines.  The Pilots do not need the increase in lift that strakes provide because the wide chines provide more then enough lift needed.

Q: How does the Bristol Skiff perform with a relatively flat bottom?

A: The Bristol Skiff has a slight angle on the bottom of 5 degrees,  however what makes it out perform many other skiffs and provide a smoother dry ride than many skiffs is the wide flare and the 2 deep skegs along the bottom of the hull. 

Q: What is resin infusion?

A: Resin infusion is a process in which the hull is laid into a mold with dry fiberglass and core material.  Once the boat is dry laid then the boat is bagged and vacuum pumps are fitted to one end of the mold while resin lines are placed at the other end of the mold.  The vacuum created sucks the resin through the fiberglass and creates a hull that is completely saturated with the perfect amount of resin. This system creates an extremely rugged and durable hull that is unmatched in the market.

Q: How do I get a Pilot?

A: Holby Marine has a dealer network that is constantly expanding.  To find out where the closest Holby Marine Dealer is to you please fill out an information request or contact our sales department.

Q: Can I get parts for my boat from Holby Marine?

A: Holby Marine would be happy to provide any parts that you may need for any Pilot our Bristol Skiff products.  If you need a part please contact sales@holbymarine.com.

Q: What do I need to do to maintain my boat?

A: Regular washing and maintenance to all fiberglass surfaces is required and is ever more essential to any dark hulls.  Washing and waxing are essential to maintaining the original finish of the gel coat.  Other maintenance is just basic boating knowledge, regularly check all hose fitting and connectors to be sure everything is in proper order.

Q: What do I need to do to maintain my motor?

A: Every motor is different depending on the requirements of the manufacture.  Since each motor varies it is essential that you refer to the engine maintenance manual and follow all recommendations as well as having dealers perform regular checks and maintenance.