Winterizing Your Boat

Protecting Your Boat for the Winter!

As summer comes to an end, the days shorten, and the air becomes cooler, it's time to think about winterizing your boat. This is an essential step to ensure a smooth sailing season next year. Whether your boat is motorized, sail-powered, on a trailer, or moored afloat, protecting it for the winter is crucial to prolong its lifespan and avoid unpleasant surprises.

1. Prepare the Boat Before Cleaning

Before starting the cleaning process, it's important to perform a few preliminary tasks:

  • Empty the Boat:
    Remove all non-integrated equipment that could be damaged or stolen over the winter. Take with you:

    • Sports equipment: paddleboards, wakeboards, masks, etc.

    • Portable electronics: VHF, GPS.

    • Safety equipment: distress flares, fire extinguishers, life jackets.

    Check the expiration dates of these items, rinse them, and store them in a dry place.

2. Winterize the Engine

The engine is the heart of your boat and requires special attention during winterization. Follow these steps for proper maintenance:

  • Rinse with Freshwater:
    Remove salt deposits by flushing with fresh water.

  • Oil and Fuel Drainage:
    Change the engine oil and empty the fuel or diesel tank.

  • Replace Filters:
    Replace both the oil and fuel filters.

  • Replace the Water Pump Impeller:
    Ensure the water pump is in good condition for the next season.

  • Inspect and Replace Accessible Anodes:
    Ensure that all sacrificial anodes are in good condition.

  • Lubricate the Engine and Grease the Screws:
    Lubricate all moving parts and ensure proper greasing.

These tasks will ensure that your engine stays in great condition and is ready to go when spring arrives. For more details, consult our engine maintenance guide.

3. Store the Batteries

Batteries need special care to avoid irreversible degradation:

  • Remove the Batteries:
    Store them in a dry location, away from moisture, and ensure they are charged.

  • If You Can’t Remove the Batteries:
    Check their charge and recharge them at least once a month. A battery discharged by more than 70% may not recover.

Note: If your bilge pumps depend on the batteries, don’t disconnect them, as they must remain operational.

4. Clean the Boat and Deck

A complete cleaning is essential:

  • Use eco-friendly products to clean the deck, console, cushions, rigging, as well as both the interior and exterior of the boat.

  • For the interior, a multi-surface cleaner will suffice.

  • For the deck and hull, a specific cleaner is recommended.

Consider how satisfying it will be to find a clean, well-maintained boat when the next season arrives. For more tips, refer to our cleaning and maintenance guide.

5. Winterizing Sailboats and Liveaboard Boats

If you own a sailboat or a liveaboard boat, additional precautions are necessary:

  • Sails:

    • Rinse and Dry: Rinse the sails with fresh water, dry them, and fold them carefully.

    • Storage: If possible, take the sails home to keep them dry.

  • Toilets:

    • Empty the black water tanks in a proper facility.

    • Add fresh water, and use a compatible cleaner, such as a vinegar-based degreaser, and completely drain the tanks.

  • Freshwater System:

    • Empty the water tanks and the hot water heater completely.

    • Add antifreeze and antibacterial liquid to protect the tanks from freezing and bacteria.

  • Ventilation:

    • Check the fans and ventilators.

    • Use a dehumidifier.

    • Leave lockers and cabinets open to allow ventilation and prevent moisture buildup.

6. Check and Protect

Ensure that hatches, doors, and deck panels are securely closed.

  • Double Up the Mooring Lines and Add Fenders:
    Secure the boat by doubling the mooring lines and adding fenders for protection.

  • Secure the Mooring Shock Absorbers:
    Add a piece of chain between the shock absorber and the dock cleat to hold the line in case the spring fails.

  • Install a Protective Cover:
    Use a well-fitted cover to protect the upholstery, plastic, and wood from UV rays and dirt. The cover should be suspended at the boat’s ends, without touching the deck.

7. Tips

Nothing replaces regular visits to your boat during the winter, especially if bad weather is forecasted. If you can’t make it, ask a friend or hire a professional to monitor your boat.

A well-prepared boat for winter is a protected boat, which extends its lifespan. Proper winterization will save you stress during the colder months and allow you to start the next season on the right foot.

Recommended Products for Winterizing Your Boat:

  • Engine: Engine maintenance products.

  • Batteries: Marine batteries and accessories.

  • Cleaning: Boat maintenance products.

  • Sails: Cleaners for fabric and vinyl.

  • Toilets and Freshwater System: Degreasers and antibacterials.

  • Ventilation: Dehumidifiers.

  • Inspection: Mooring accessories, fenders, shock absorbers.

  • Protection: Boat covers.