5 Problem-Solving Marine Products For 2021

Every year we look forward to attending the International Boatbuilders' Exhibition & Conference, better known as IBEX, an industry event not open to the public, where we learn about the latest and greatest advancements in boatbuilding. For 2020, as one might expect, IBEX had to be held in a virtual format. Fortunately, that still allowed us to lay our eyes on some cool new products that are sure to be of interest to mariners in the coming year. Here are five top takeaways from IBEX 2020.

Steele Rubber Gaskets & Weatherstripping

Gaskets and weatherstripping tend to deteriorate over time in the marine environment, so there's a fair chance you'll need to replace a gasket on your fishbox, cabin door, or cooler compartment. Steele Rubber's ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) "sponge" rubber and hollow-seal material with peel-and-stick backings are made to withstand the challenges of the marine environment. There's a huge range of shapes and dimensions, available by the foot or in longer lengths.

Starting at $2.19/foot | steelerubber.com

Attwood Sahara Mk2 Automatic Bilge Pump

The Sahara Mk2 won an Innovation Award in the Mechanical Systems category, thanks to eliminating the common bilge pump problem of air-lock. Based on the X-Air impeller, it's engineered to force trapped air bubbles out of the pipework. Beyond that, the Mk2 has the other Sahara-line features like a snap-in cartage with single-hand release, and a 90-degree rotating elbow outlet. Available January 2021.

Pricing not available at press time | attwoodmarine.com

SeaStar Steering Power Assist

Another award-winner, this one for the Propulsion Parts and Propellers category, the Electric Power Assist Steering system from Dometic incorporates the first all-electric steering actuator for outboard engines. It’s recommended for any outboard-powered boat 200 hp and above to give a similar steering experience as in your vehicle.  It easily mounts on all major outboard brands and integrates with any existing SeaStar rack or rotary cable steering system, so there is no need to install new steering. It also works with standard or tilt helms. Available in early 2021.

$1,800 | seastarsolutions.com

Menzerna One-Step Polish 3-in-1

Looking to get that perfect gelcoat shine with less elbow-grease required? Menzerna, long known for its automotive polishes, has introduced One-Step Polish for marine gelcoat. This silicone-free, water-based treatment uses "grain breaking" to eliminate the need for multiple staged products to remove oxidation and then polish the gelcoat. The heavy grit scrubs away oxidation, but as it does, it breaks down to become smaller and smaller grit, providing multiple levels of polishing in the very same application.

$44 for 32 ounces | msdistributorspr.com

Pettit AnchorTech

When you think of Pettit, you undoubtedly think of marine paint, but now the company is launching an entirely new line of adhesives and sealants called AnchorTech. It comes in three flavors: Premium Fast Dry Adhesive Sealant, UV Resistant Adhesive Sealant, and Advanced Hybrid Sealant. These adhere to fiberglass, metal, wood, glass, aluminum, and many other common boatbuilding materials.

Price TBA | pettitpaint.com/anchortech