Boat Scuppers

No one wants to stand in puddles on their boat. Water from waves, rain, and spray needs a way to drain so decks stay dry and safe. Scuppers let water escape without any effort. The right type depends on how your boat is built and how much water needs to drain.

Some scuppers work better with certain hull materials, while others handle more water at once. It also helps to know how they compare to bilge pumps and where they should be installed. If you’re not sure what to look for, these common questions will point you in the right direction.

What is a scupper and how does it work?

A scupper is a drainage outlet that lets water flow off the deck and out of the boat. It stops water from pooling so your deck stays dry and safe. Most scuppers use gravity to move water through an opening in the deck or hull. Some have flaps or ball systems that stop water from coming back in.

What are the different types of boat scuppers?

Boat scuppers come in a few designs to suit different setups. Some have hinged lids that help control drainage, while others have hose tails that guide water away. Captive ball scuppers block water from flowing back in, and surface-mounted scuppers are easy to install. The right choice depends on how much water you need to drain and where you plan to install it.

Where should a scupper be installed?

Scuppers go where water tends to collect. Most are placed on the deck, gunwale, or transom to let water drain naturally. The best spot depends on your boat’s layout and how you want the water to flow. Picking the right placement helps stop water from building up in the wrong areas.

What’s the difference between a scupper and a bilge pump?

Scuppers drain water off the deck on their own, while bilge pumps remove water from inside the boat. A scupper works all the time without power because it relies on gravity. A bilge pump needs to be turned on or set to run automatically. Boats that take on a lot of water often use both to stay dry.