CAVITATION CLEANING FAQs
What is cavitation cleaning and how does it work?
Cavitation cleaning uses ultrasonic waves to create microscopic bubbles that collapse against fouled surfaces, breaking the bond between marine growth and the hull without physical scraping or chemicals. It’s best suited for hardened barnacles and calcium buildup that standard brush cleaning can’t safely remove.
For a full explanation of the process and when it’s the right choice, read our guide: What Is Cavitation Cleaning and How Does It Work?
Is cavitation cleaning safe for antifouling paint?
Yes. Cavitation cleaning removes marine growth by collapsing microscopic bubbles against the fouled surface, which breaks the bond between the organism and the coating without direct mechanical contact.
This protects both ablative and hard antifouling paints from the accelerated wear that conventional scraping causes.
For a detailed look at how cavitation compares to standard cleaning methods and when paint damage is still a risk, read our full guide: Is Cavitation Cleaning Safe for Antifouling Paint?
How much does cavitation cleaning cost?
Cavitation cleaning is priced per foot and varies based on vessel size and the severity of marine growth. It costs more than a standard hull scrub, but it prevents the paint damage that aggressive scraping causes, which can save you thousands on an early repaint.
For a breakdown of what affects pricing and how cavitation compares to other cleaning options, read our full guide: How Much Does Cavitation Cleaning Cost?
Cavitation cleaning vs pressure washing: what's the difference?
Pressure washing uses high-velocity water to knock growth off a surface, while cavitation cleaning uses ultrasonic bubbles that collapse and break the bond between fouling and the hull.
Pressure washing requires a haul-out and can damage paint or gelcoat at high settings, whereas cavitation is done in the water and is safe for coatings.
For a full comparison of both methods and when each one makes sense, read our guide: Cavitation Cleaning vs Pressure Washing: What’s the Difference?
How often should you schedule cavitation cleaning?
Most boats don’t need cavitation cleaning monthly. It’s best used as a targeted service when hardened growth exceeds what standard brush cleaning can safely remove.
Boats on a consistent monthly hull cleaning schedule typically only need cavitation once or twice a year for heavy buildup on props, shafts, or neglected areas.
For a full breakdown of how cavitation fits into a maintenance schedule, read our guide: How Often Should You Schedule Cavitation Cleaning?