Rethinking Marine Vessel

Rethinking Marine Vessel Air Quality - Part Six

David Levesque


Throughout the last 5 articles, we at The Kanberra Group have been sharing our experiences and knowledge on the topic of Yacht Air Quality (YAQ). Combining more than 20 years in indoor air quality research and improvement, the Kanberra Group has been working closely with various areas of the marine industry to better understand the needs of boat owners, yacht captains and crews and provide detailed programmatic solutions to enhance marine experience and vessel maintenance. It is commonly accepted among yacht owners that the air inside cabin interiors will always have a certain aroma, a by-product of being out on the water. There is also the, again accepted, existence of mold and mildew, and the inevitable labor that comes with removing it from the yachts after storage and in-between use. Seafarers believe this is the way it has always been, and so it will always be. Simply not true. There is no need to re-invent the wheel for YAQ. Many air quality solutions have been successfully utilized by The Kanberra Group on US Navy ships and other large vessels, as well as commercial buildings and hospitals. These solutions are easily adaptable to any size marine vessel.

Already a staple in the Mega-yacht industry, Kanberra Gel has been making waves in many marine-related areas, as well as RV and automotive storage, hospitality industry, health and fitness, real estate, pet stores and hardware stores.

We had discussed how air filters in your heating and cooling system are an essential component in establishing and maintaining YAQ. The first rule of any air quality management program is “source control.” Remove the contaminants and you improve the conditions. Proper filtration allows for the control and removal of most of those contaminants, thus improving the quality of air flowing through the coil which in turn assists in coil maintenance, reducing ductwork debris accumulation and improving air flow. Kanberra Filters are available through www.KanberraGel.com.

In one of the previous articles we had discussed in detail how in the indoor air quality industry we pay special attention to VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) and how to control them. VOC’s are emitted from a variety of materials including housekeeping and maintenance products. At The Kanberra Group, we recommend performing general household cleaning using a revolutionary cleaning product called Activeion. More information on Activeion can be obtained by calling The Kanberra Group.

In another article we had focused on coil maintenance. Microbial growth on a coil can create a “Bio-film,” or membrane that essentially blankets the fins, eating away at the cooling coil over time and decreasing the amount of air passing through the system. Maintenance and repair can add up to high costs for the boat owner. At The Kanberra Group we utilize an advanced enzyme cleaner and post-cleaning treatment which is much safer for the boat owner and gentler on the system. Additional information on coil maintenance can be obtained by contacting The Kanberra Group.

Our last article addressed the ages-old challenge of off-season storage. No one cares more about your investment than you do. You certainly work hard to protect your vessel during the season, so why not give her the best care possible during storage? We trust you follow or pay someone to follow a strict program of winterization, however inevitably you will have some mold and odors come spring. Microorganisms will take residence in your boats’ canvas, upholstery, cushions and carpeting for the duration of winter. During the unfailing thaw in January/February, these microorganisms will come out to play. Throughout our travels and discussions we know the most common weapon used in the fight against off-season microbial growth is the hanging moisture bag. What we have learned, and heard, is these only provide some relief. Removing the moisture is important; however these bags do not remove the mold and bacteria spores currently present in the fabrics, upholstery and canvas, not to mention the bilge, holding tank and forward/rear compartments. This is where Kanberra Gel has provided a much-needed solution to the marine industry.

Many storage yards across the Northeast, Great Lakes, the Chesapeake region and many others around the world have incorporated Kanberra Gel into their winterization programs. A canister of Kanberra Gel placed in the vessel with all cabin doors, cabinets and lockers left open will provide protection for the duration of storage. In an enclosed environment the Kanberra Gel vapor will blanket the cabin areas, penetrate the canvas, upholstery, cushions and carpeting and eliminate and control any microorganisms thus ensuring an easier spring clean-up.

These past few years we have seen tremendous growth for The Kanberra Group in not just the marine industry but also in the hospitality industry, independent pharmacies, hardware stores, pet boutiques, automotive industry, real estate and health food markets. We have taken on hundreds of new retailers and distributors and exhibited at various select shows both in and outside the country. The awareness of the benefits of Kanberra Gel seems to be accelerating by the minute with calls and e-mails coming in from all over the world. 

In the past couple of years, The Kanberra Group has expanded its name in the marine industry with such offerings as improved filtration, integrated medical-grade air purification, in-line air duct purifiers and complimentary products to our very popular Kanberra Gel line. We have also recently launched the Kanberra Wipes. Like our gel and spray, Kanberra Wipes feature an all-natural proprietary blend Tea Tree Oils and other essential oils in a convenient surface wipe. Kanberra Wipes are infused with the natural antiseptic and antifungal properties of Tea Tree Oil and other oils to attack bacteria and mold on contact and neutralize associated odors with no chemicals including fragrances or perfumes. Safe around kids and pets, the wipes have countless uses — in the home, car, boat, travel and more. For more information on Kanberra Wipes, contact the Kanberra Group.


Have a great winter!