It is essential to maintain the boat at the arrival of the winter period to avoid the risk of premature wear of parts and hull. It may be a daunting and time-consuming task, but if it is done properly, you will enjoy your boat during the summer season.
Winter: a bad season for your boat
It is almost impossible to go boating in winter. This is a good time to maintain your boat before storing it. Your boat should not be left in the water during the winter, as icy water and freezing temperatures can damage it. This reduces damage caused by weather impacts. Yacht wintering helps protect your yacht during the coldest period. It will also increase boat performance. You will lose less money and less energy for spring maintenance.
Wintering afloat or dry: which methods?
The storage conditions of the boat contribute to the success of wintering. The least expensive solution is to put it in your garden, inside or outside a shed, depending on the space you have available. However, this requires strict maintenance conditions. Dry yacht wintering is also a solution to preserve the condition of the boat during periods of extreme cold. In this case, the yacht will be stored in a dry harbour, either indoors or outdoors, depending on the option chosen. In addition to the storage costs, the cost of launching must also be taken into account. Another alternative to dry wintering is the floating method. This allows you to leave your boat on the water if you have a ring. It also requires an increased maintenance technique, as storage conditions can be very harsh, between successive frosts and strong winds.
Yacht wintering: what you should keep in mind
There are a few precautions to take when wintering yachts. These include emptying your closet, removing books and flyers that can store moisture, and removing ears and fluff, etc. Whether you have decided to maintain the boat yourself or hire a professional to do it, you should take notes of every task to be done during winterizing maintenance, whether it is DIY, painting, cleaning, etc. Once the cupboards have been emptied of perishable goods, it is essential to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny. Anything that can create moisture in the boat and facilitate air circulation must be removed before storing it in the shed or harbour. A check of all equipment used during navigation should also be planned and it is essential to remove all batteries to avoid acid leakage. Empty the water tank, the toilet and all containers that allow water to stagnate. It is also important to check the mechanical aspects, especially the engine, to preserve it.