bilge water

[torcano]

I aways seem to have about 2 cups of water in my bilge. It never reaches a level that would activate the bilge pump and the volume remains constant. I sucked it out with a wet vac several times but it always comes back.Where does this come from? My understanding that a little water in the bilge is "normal" but shouldn't a boat be water tight? My boat is 4 years old and in excellent condition. Is this seen in a brand new boat?
Thanks

 

[5150abf]

Re: bilge water

What kind of boat is it?

 

[Nandy]

Re: bilge water

There are several reasons. Not all include a hole in your hull. Depending on your boat use and habits it can be water from your coming in and out of the boat (swimming), water spray from rough waters, water over the transom due to motor adjustment and the list keep going. If you can try to go a day and keep your speed low, watch for water coming in from waves or your transom. Stop every 15 min and inspect for water in the bilge.

 

[fishmen111]

Re: bilge water

If I remember right, you have a slipped 24' SeaRay. This time of year, you can get a lot of condensation from the low water temp on the hull in conjunction with rising air temps. If the level is constant and stays that little, I wouldn't worry too much. Keep an eye on it and have at least two active bilge pumps.

 

[torcano]

Re: bilge water

Correct. The boat is a 24 foot Sundancer. It has pretty much been sitting in the slip because it is still a bit chilly here in the northeast to be cruising around the ocean. The water collects around the center where then transducer penetrates the hull. This is also the lowest part nof the bilge.When I suck it out with the wet vac it re-appears within 30 seconds. The volume is constant, never more than a cup or two at most. I had the boat surveyed by a competent and certified marine surveyor. The boat is in above average condition and only has 150 hours on it. He thought it might be rain water, but it hasn't rained in two days. I am not overly concerned, but I was wondering if there is a such a thing as a boat of this size with a perfectly dry bilge.
RK