David 'Dock' Thompson
Marina Manager, 20+ Years
David has managed marina operations for over two decades. He's seen every maintenance shortcut and knows which products actually hold up across hundreds of boats.
“I've seen a hundred owners make the same mistake. That's why I write it down.”
20+ years marina management, fleet operations
Areas of Expertise
About David 'Dock' Thompson
David "Dock" Thompson - The Practical Marina Manager
With over two decades of marina management experience, David Thompson has seen every type of boat owner and every kind of maintenance challenge. From weekend warriors to seasoned cruisers, "Dock" has helped thousands of boat owners solve problems and avoid costly mistakes.
Managing a large marina has given David a unique perspective on what maintenance practices actually work in real-world conditions. He's witnessed the consequences of poor maintenance decisions and knows which products and techniques deliver consistent results across different boat types and owner skill levels.
David's practical, systems-thinking approach makes complex maintenance topics accessible to boat owners of all experience levels. His advice is always grounded in what he's seen work (and not work) across hundreds of boats and thousands of slip holders.
Articles by David 'Dock' Thompson(14)
Spring Boat Prep Checklist: The Complete Detailing Guide for Launch Season 2026
Step-by-step spring boat prep: hull cleaning, oxidation removal, sealant application, vinyl care, and final inspection. Get your boat launch-ready for 2026.
How to Remove Oxidation from Aluminum Boats: Step-by-Step Guide
Fix white, chalky oxidation on your aluminum boat hull with this step-by-step guide. Covers identification, removal methods, and protection to prevent recurrence.
Boat Oxidation Removal: The Complete Guide to Restoring Gelcoat
Everything you need to know about boat oxidation. How it happens, how to assess severity, step-by-step removal methods, and long-term prevention strategies.
How to Apply Boat Sealant: Gelcoat Protection Guide
Professional guide to applying gelcoat sealant on fiberglass boats. Covers surface prep, application technique, cure times, and maintenance for lasting UV protection.
Complete Guide: How to Remove Oxidation from Boat Gelcoat
Master boat oxidation removal with this complete guide. Learn to identify oxidation severity, choose the right compounds, and protect your gelcoat for lasting results.
Best Cleaner for Boat Fenders | August Race
Use a marine-grade fender cleaner like August Race Fender Clean for pink algae, mildew, and scuffs. Safe on vinyl with simple step-by-step instructions.
Salt Removal Boat Care with August Race Boat Wash Pro
Cut saltwater stains and gelcoat grime fast. pH-neutral, biodegradable wash for fleets, RIBs, and yachts -- save rinse cycles at your marina.
Fix Oxidized Gelcoat Fast: A Marina Manager’s Guide
Restore oxidized gelcoat fast at scale. Our marina-tested workflow plus Smooth Opacity UV adds lasting UV protection and cuts rework across multiple boats.
How to Remove Oxidation from Boat: DIY & Professional Methods
Learn how to remove oxidation from your boat with proven DIY methods and professional products. Complete guide covering homemade remedies, compound selection, and UV protection for lasting results.
August Race Fender Clean: Pro Boat Fender Cleaner
How marina teams clean fenders fast with August Race Fender Clean -- an eco-friendly fender cleaner. Workflow, KPIs, and compliance for busy berths.
Best Boat Wash for Marinas: August Race Boat Wash Pro
Scale a fast, compliant boat wash across busy slips. See how August Race Boat Wash Pro handles salt, stains, and algae removal with marina-ready efficiency.
August Race GRP Sealer UV: Scalable GRP UV Protection
Protect GRP fleet-wide with a biodegradable, hydrophobic fiberglass sealant. Faster washdowns, longer gloss, and scalable SOPs for busy marinas.
Fast Gelcoat Stain Remover for Marina Ops | Bright Coat
How our marina teams remove rust stains and yellowing fast with a non-abrasive gelcoat treatment -- scalable SOPs, batching tips, and a pilot plan.
GRP Sealer UV for Marinas: Hi-Gloss, UV Protection
Seal fiberglass from UV across your fleet. August Race GRP Sealer UV delivers a hi-gloss finish, reduces maintenance, and streamlines marina operations.