Boat Inspection Ports & Deck Plates

Durable, waterproof inspection ports and boat plates for exceptional convenience

Boat plates are essential for all boats, allowing owners to check the hull and other boat parts for corrosion or damage. Inspection ports should also be clearly marked with a buoyancy statement to ensure your passengers' safety. 

Deck plates and inspection ports all come under the category of “boat plates”, which must be inspected regularly for optimal safety. 

At Marine Depot, we understand the importance of high-quality inspection ports. Our hatches, ports and plates are made from durable materials and can be easily installed on any boat, from recreational boats to large-scale commercial vessels. 

Our inspection plates come with ZipMoney and ZipPay for easy payment. Shop inspection plates online and gain the peace of mind that comes with a safe, secure boat! 

What to look for in your new boat plates

When choosing inspection ports for your boat, you should look for durable materials, waterproof seals and corrosion-resistant coatings. 

We recommend investing in durable inspection plate materials, like plastic, marine-grade stainless steel and aluminium. These materials are strong enough to withstand the elements and last a long time — plus, they’re corrosion-resistant, meaning your inspection port will look great for years to come.

It’s also important to ensure the inspection ports are adequately sized so that they can be used with tools and inspection equipment. Deck plates should be chosen carefully as they need to provide easy access while still being secure enough to protect your boat from the elements. 

Finally, you should look for boat plates with a flat design so they don’t pose any trip hazards on the hull or deck. 

We offer several options, including inspection ports that can be screwed into the deck and inspection plates with hinged covers, o-rings, finger openings, and keys. Browse through our collection and check out online for fast shipping throughout Australia. 

Do I really need boat plates?

Yes. Inspection ports are mandatory due to safety regulations put into place by governing bodies.

Inspection ports should be located at convenient places on the vessel near working areas, such as engine compartments, to allow for easy inspection and maintenance access. They can also aid ventilation if you need to air out the hull of your vessel.

If you’re unsure whether inspection ports have been installed, consult a qualified marine professional who can help assess your boat's inspection ports and advise on their installation. 

FAQs about inspection ports and boat plates

• Don’t boats already come with an inspection port?
  
  No, an inspection port is not a standard feature for boats. They are usually installed after purchase.
   
• Are boat plates easy to install?
  
  Yes! Most boat plates can be mounted on the deck or hull with screws, and most come with pre-drilled mounting holes to make installation clear and simple. Alternatively, metal plates can be welded to the deck or hull for a more secure, reliable hold.
   
• How often should I check my inspection ports?
  
  It’s important to ensure inspection ports are in good condition. Any inspection ports should be checked regularly for signs of wear and tear and potential risks such as corrosion or rusting. Your boat plates are part of the inspection process, and it is recommended that inspection ports be inspected on a regular basis, particularly before and after extended trips.
   
• What do I need to look out for when checking my boat plates?
  
  When inspecting inspection plates, ensure they are properly sealed, not cracked or damaged, and that all screws are tight. Also, check for signs of corrosion, rust, or water damage which could affect the boat’s buoyancy.
   
• What is included when I purchase an inspection port?
  
  When purchasing an inspection port, it usually consists of the inspection frame, inspection hatch, and any necessary mounting hardware, like screws and bolts. Inspection ports also often come with a buoyancy statement which must be clearly displayed on the vessel.
   
• Should I have my boat plates professionally installed?
  
  If you don’t feel confident installing boat plates, we recommend contacting a competent person for assistance. Your local boat mechanic may be able to assist with installation.
  
  If you’re installing them yourself, follow the instructions provided when installing your inspection plate and always use the recommended tools for installation.
   
• What kind of materials are available?
  
  Inspection plates are typically made from stainless steel or aluminium. However, you can also find inspection plates constructed with various other materials, such as plastic or brass. The material used will depend on the application, so it’s important to check what is suitable for your needs before making a purchase. 

Shop durable, corrosion-resistant boat plates online at Marine Depot!

We understand how important it is to have inspection ports and boat plates on your boat for the safety of your passengers and the performance of your vessel. Boat plates don’t have to be expensive — with this in mind, we offer ZipMoney and ZipPay, so you don't have to sacrifice safety for savings. 

Shop inspection ports and boat plates online at Marine Depot, and rest easy knowing your boat will stay afloat on all its adventures!