Water in bilge

[Sa1tySai1s]

I'm not sure if I have a shaft seal or bearing issue with my 2021 Jeanneau Yacht 54. I found a good amount of water in the bilge but hull's dry, and the engine and transmission areas are also completely dry. I think the water seems to be coming from underneath the main cabin sole liner, right around where the propeller shaft enters the boat. Prior to this, I've noticed increased vibration when in gear. My prime suspect is the shaft seal or potentially the internal stern tube bearing, allowing water past. Given it's a 2021 boat, I'm a bit surprised if a factory-installed dripless seal or bearing is already failing. Has anyone experienced water ingress from this area? I'd appreciate any insights or hearing similar experiences.

 

[Almar1]

I had a similar issue on mine, I noticed water in the bilge near the shaft and some vibration too, I saw that the shaft seal was failing earl, replacing it fixed the leak and smoothed out the ride

 

[MemeDiplomat-99]

@Almar1 's experience with a failing seal hits close to home, as that shaft seal is a very likely area to check first with the water location and new vibration you mentioned.

 

[Bridgingthegap]

The seal is a good first guess and if it turns out it's good and not the problem, you should check out the cutlass bearing. If it's gone the shaft will be misaligned resulting in water entering and some vibrations