We restore the original gloss of your vessel's gelcoat through a multi-stage correction process. We remove oxidation, scratches, water spots and swirl marks to deliver a deep, showroom mirror finish on exterior surfaces, chrome and accessories.
Request a WhatsApp QuoteIn Cartagena this service is often called polichar, but it is far more than applying a quick polish. It is a technical process requiring marine-paint knowledge, professional rotary and dual-action polishers, and compounds selected for the exact condition of the gelcoat.
We remove the chalky, dull layer caused by Cartagena's tropical climate.
We level light and medium scratches with controlled compounding.
A showroom finish with strong reflection and restored color depth.
We perform a single type of polishing: deep and complete in 3 stages (cut, refine and finish). We remove oxidation, scratches, water spots and swirl marks to restore the mirror gloss of the gelcoat. No intermediate levels or half-done jobs: every vessel gets the full deep correction.
Time varies by vessel
Technical note: Polishing is a controlled correction process. We first inspect the surface and select the least aggressive method capable of achieving the agreed result.
We assess oxidation, scratch depth, swirl marks, previous repairs and severely damaged areas. This inspection defines the viable correction level and whether polishing can deliver the expected finish.
We remove salt, dirt, grease and embedded residue. When the condition calls for it, localized sanding is included in the written scope. A clean surface helps prevent new marks during correction.
A cutting compound and the appropriate machine and pad are selected for the gelcoat condition to reduce oxidation and correct defects without forcing the surface.
We refine compounding marks and holograms with a medium or fine polish, restoring clarity and color depth.
A fine finishing polish and soft pad produce the final gloss agreed for the surface, followed by a visual quality check.
After correction, ceramic protection can be quoted as an additional service. Product, preparation, maintenance and applicable coverage are specified in the written proposal.
Ceramic Protection Options
One-Time Application
Full ceramic-coating application on the quoted areas.
COP 90,000 / foot
Quarterly Maintenance ✦
Scheduled maintenance every three months, with scope confirmed in the proposal.
COP 900,000 / quarter
Constant UV exposure in Cartagena can leave gelcoat chalky, dull and faded. Controlled correction removes the oxidized surface layer when the substrate is still suitable for polishing.
Fine circular marks caused by improper washing or earlier machine polishing are refined with the correct pad, compound and cross-pass technique.
Mineral deposits can etch the surface when water dries in the sun. We select chemical decontamination or mechanical correction according to the depth of the marks.
Marks from ropes, fenders, docks and improper washing can often be reduced when they remain within the polishable surface. Deeper damage requires a separate repair.
As an additional service, we fill deep scratches with gelcoat and prepare the tone to match the vessel's current color as closely as possible. The repaired area is then leveled and polished into the surrounding finish.
This work is charged per scratch and quoted after inspecting the boat. Price depends on depth, length, location, access and the difficulty of reproducing the aged color.
Full gelcoat polishing for the areas included in the approved written scope.
PER FOOT OF OVERALL LENGTH · PLUS VAT
Color-matched gelcoat repair is not included in the per-foot rate. It is priced per scratch after the vessel is inspected.
Boat — 38 feet
Runabout / Center Console
COP 3,420,000
plus VAT
Yacht — 65 feet
Cruising / Sport Yacht
COP 5,850,000
plus VAT
* Reference values are based on overall length and exclude VAT. The final quote is subject to an on-site inspection of the gelcoat. If the surface is too deteriorated, burned, thin or extensively damaged for polishing, a full paint system may be required instead.
Before work begins, we inspect the gelcoat and provide the viable scope in writing. At handover, we review the finish with you. Any applicable coverage, conditions and exclusions are tied to the service that was actually approved.
Assessment of the actual surface
Included work, exclusions and price
Correction suited to each surface
Coverage according to agreed work
Frequently Asked Questions
Send us photos and your vessel's length to arrange an inspection. We will confirm what can be corrected, the written scope and the final quote before work begins.
Request an InspectionService is available throughout Cartagena Bay and nearby islands, subject to access and scheduling.