Every year, with the arrival of spring, the race to prepare boats for the summer season begins. In Sardinia, the ideal sailing window runs from May to October, but preparation work should begin much earlier. Those who act late risk finding sailmakers and upholsterers fully booked, with delivery times stretching precisely when they should be shorter.
In this guide, we share our experience to help you plan the maintenance of sails, sprayhood, bimini, and cushions with the right timing, avoiding last-minute stress.
When to start planning
The golden rule is simple: the earlier you order, the sooner your boat is ready. The peak season for sailmakers and nautical upholsterers in northern Sardinia runs from March to August. During these months, workload is at its maximum and waiting times inevitably increase.
The ideal time to contact us is between January and February. During this period, we can carry out the boat survey, take measurements, discuss materials and colours at leisure, and schedule production without urgency. Those who order early have the certainty of finding everything ready for the spring launch.
Checklist: what to check on your boat
Sprayhood (spray deflector)
The sprayhood is probably the most weather-exposed piece of nautical upholstery. Check the fabric condition, looking for signs of wear, discolouration, or cracking. Verify that zippers work and that the transparent crystal windows are still clear and flexible.
When to replace: if the fabric is stiff, discoloured, or seams are giving way. Average lifespan: 5-8 years.
Bimini (sun awning)
The bimini provides sun protection while sailing and at anchor. As with the sprayhood, check fabric, seams, and tubular structure. A bimini with deformed battens or sagging fabric no longer offers effective protection and can become dangerous in wind.
When to replace: if the fabric is sagging, the structure is deformed, or seams are giving way. Average lifespan: 5-7 years.
Cockpit and interior cushions
Cockpit and interior cushions are subject to humidity, mould, and wear from sitting. Check the condition of covers, fabrics, and especially internal padding. Padding that no longer drains properly becomes a breeding ground for mould and unpleasant odours.
When to replace: if padding is deformed, mould is persistent, or fabrics are torn. Average lifespan: 4-6 years for cockpit, 8-10 for interiors.
Sails (mainsail, genoa, jib)
Sails deserve a thorough inspection at the start of the season. Spread them on the ground and check the condition of the fabric, seams, leech edges, and the tack, head, and clew points. Look for signs of chafing, fabric thinning, and seams beginning to give way. If the sail has lost its shape and is sagging, it may be time to consider a replacement.
When to replace: if the sail has lost its profile, seams are compromised, or the fabric is transparent when held up to the light. Average lifespan: 3,000-5,000 nautical miles.
Lazy bag, mainsail cover, and accessories
Don't forget the accessories: lazy bag, mainsail cover, sail bags, shroud protectors. These are items that suffer direct sun and salt action and deteriorate faster than the sails themselves.
When to replace: if the fabric is fragile, zippers no longer slide, or velcro has lost grip. Average lifespan: 3-5 years.
Our services for seasonal preparation
At WSAIL Sardegna, we offer a complete service for nautical preparation, divided into two specialised departments.
Sailmaking
- ✓New custom sail manufacturing
- ✓Repair and modification of existing sails
- ✓Lazy bag, mainsail covers, sail bags
- ✓Sail inspection and condition assessment
Delivery time: 30-60 days
Nautical upholstery
- ✓Custom sprayhood and bimini
- ✓Cockpit and interior cushions
- ✓Boat covers and protective covers
- ✓Fabric repair and replacement
Delivery time: approximately 3 weeks
Why ordering in advance is essential
We say it every year, but it's worth repeating: the difference between a relaxed season and a stressful one is all in the planning. Here are the timelines to keep in mind.
Recommended calendar
The delivery times we indicate — 30-60 days for sailmaking and approximately 3 weeks for upholstery — refer to normal workload conditions. During peak season, these times can double. Ordering between January and February not only guarantees punctual delivery but also allows working with more care and attention to detail.
Does your boat need a check-up?
Write to us on WhatsApp or contact us to schedule a boat survey. We'll assess the condition of sails, sprayhood, bimini, and cushions together and give you a detailed quote with certain delivery times.