Why Most Saltwater Boats Are White
Not all saltwater “boats” are white. Submarines are considered “boats” such as the Swedish GOTLAND, and tugs like the Swedish preserved tug boat BJRNEN “the Bear” are also recognized. However, the overwhelming majority of saltwater vessels are predominantly white. This phenomenon is not solely a result of modern preferences but a blend of practicality and tradition.
Historical and Practical Reasons for White Hulls
The white color of saltwater boats is more than just a matter of aesthetics. Historically, boats that were painted white or other light colors avoided the expansion and contraction of planks to a lesser degree than dark-colored hulls. This is due to the light color reflecting much more of the warmth or heat from the sun. Dark hulls absorb more solar energy, causing the hull planking to expand and subsequently shrink, leading to cracking of the paint, water absorption, and eventual rot.
Reflection of Heat and Maintenance
White gel coat is the preferred material for boat hulls because it best resists the ravages of the sun, water, and weather. It remains beautiful for longer and requires less maintenance than colored gel coat surfaces. White, therefore, serves as a practical choice for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the boat.
Practical Considerations Beyond Aesthetics
The color of a boat is also influenced by practical considerations. For example, a white hull is less visible in the water during rough weather, making it easier for search and rescue (SAR) helicopters to spot. However, a red hull, which fades more quickly in sunlight, is attractive but becomes less visible over time, making it less ideal for this purpose. A well-known captain, Nathaniel Herreschof, famous as the Wizard of Bristol, stated, “There are only two colors to paint a yacht: white and black. Only an idiot would paint a yacht black.” This reflects the practical value of white hulls in search and rescue operations.
Modern Boat Color Trends
Modern boat color trends also point towards white as a preferred choice. Fiber glass boats, which are common, often have white as their default color. Adding color stripes can create contrast but the basic boat remains predominantly white. The gel coat used to “paint” boats is a mixture of polyester and color pigments. Red is the first to fade in sunlight, making it less ideal for long-term use.
The choice to paint boats white is a blend of historical tradition, practical durability, and functional necessity. While other colors are available and sometimes preferred for aesthetic reasons, the white hull remains a predominant choice in the maritime world.