Winterizing your boat: maintenance and storage

1. Get your boat ready

Start by removing all valuables from your boat such as electronic devices, fishing equipment and life jackets.

Wash the interior and exterior to remove dirt and debris.

• Clean the hull as soon as you take the boat out of the water. You can get rid of residues such as salt, algae and silt easier when the surfaces are wet.
• Wash metal parts and apply a rust protection product.
• Wash any carpeting and use stain remover, if necessary.
• Remove anything that might retain moisture such as cushions, sponges and towels.

You already know that your boat will need more than a tarpaulin to get through the winter. Once it’s cleaned, take additional measures:

• Check the propellers and other submerged equipment. Is there any damage?
• When it comes to a boat, freezing can wreak havoc! Empty the hoses, drains and reservoirs. This will prevent condensation from freezing and causing damage.
• If your boat has plumbing, protect the pipes against the cold with a specialized non-toxic antifreeze after draining them.
• Fill the gas tank with fuel and add a fuel stabilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Run the motor for a few minutes to allow the fuel to circulate.
• Lubricate the moving parts of the boat such as the steering system, the propeller shaft, etc. with a good quality marine lubricant.
• Inspect joints for wear or cracks.

2. Protect the essentials

The motor is the most valuable cargo you have on board. It requires extra care for preventing damage caused by freezing and corrosion:

• Drain it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do an oil change and replace the oil filters. Old oil can contain contaminants that may cause rust over the winter. Use nautical oil, not the oil you use for your car.
• Apply an anti-fog coating on your motor. This product will protect the internal parts while the boat is stationary.
• If you leave your motor on board, you should lock it. Its resale value can be tempting to thieves.

Your batteries will also need care.

• Remove and wash them with a mix of water and bicarbonate of soda and then quickly dry them before any liquid seeps in.
• Store your batteries in a cool, dry area not exposed to freezing.
• Charge them from time to time over the winter.

3. Find a safe place for your boat

Trailer, shelter, hangar, marina: Storing a watercraft can be free or cost in the thousands. Start by comparing the pluses and minuses of interior or exterior storage. Think about the following criteria:

• Your budget
• The length of your boat
• Monitoring and security
• Distance
• If the location is temperate or unheated
• Available services for putting your boat back into the water, repairs, etc.

If you have a limited budget, your boat can remain on a trailer with a good lock on the hitch. However, you must first protect it from bad weather and vermin. Mice love nesting in boats!

4. Be sure your boat is covered

• Cover the boat with a tarpaulin, a customized cover or shrink wrap to protect it from bad weather.
• Adjust the cover to allow for ventilation to prevent moisture from accumulating.
• Ensure the covering is secured to resist strong winds.

Covering your boat also includes your recreational vehicle insurance. Be sure to protect your investment even during the months you won’t be using your boat.

5. Pay your boat a visit

• Drop in to check on your boat from time to time, especially if you’re storing it outside.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast. You may have to remove snow or secure your exterior storage arrangement.
• What if you notice a problem or damage? Take photos and notes to document any insurance claim. Have damage repaired quickly to avoid more costly repairs in the spring.

If you follow these steps, you can expect that your boat will be ready to go, come boating season, meaning you can get right into enjoying your time on the water!

Do you need to check on or make a change to your boat insurance?