Tips for Winter’s Boat Storage

As the brilliance of fall’s leaves scatter at our feet, boat-lovers across the region bid seasonal farewell to an activity that has brought many moments of water pleasure. To ensure next year’s smooth cruising, follow these smart boat lay-up tips by the insurance experts!

Prior to Boat Storage

ANCHORS and CANVAS – Take off canvas coverings, deck and cockpit pillows and bolsters, superfluous anchoring lines, fender guards and everything on deck that goes on shore for the winter’s stowing. Life jackets, electronics, binoculars, fishing apparatus, and any other removable equipment should be taken off the boat during storage time in order to deter thievery. At this time, it is also advisable to wash the anchor moor with clean water.

SAILS and RIGGING ROPES – Inspect sails carefully for holes, stains and dirt for sailmaker’s winter attention. Soak all running rigging in gentle detergent solution mix, then rinse and dry. Check for ragged edges, abrading and any other impairment. Detach the mast after a few years’ use for rigging and fittings’ checking.

EXAMINE AC SHORE POWER – Should you have this type of shore power, examine shore power’s holders and cables. Any blackening round a prong indicates a replacement need.

EXAMINE LPG, CNG GASOLINE SYSTEM – Should you have LPG (propane) or CNG (compressed natural gas) systems on your boat, ensure valves are rotated to off positon on tanks. Make sure tanks, regulator pressure gauge, solenoid valve and wiring as well as anything else in tank locker is fastened securely and in working order. 

FUEL TANKS – During winter storage, keep your gas tanks near empty and your diesel tanks near full.

WINTERIZING – Should your boat be stored under harsh winter climate conditions, make sure systems are stored properly

• Air conditioning / engine cooling systems and sanitation / domestic water systems need to be emptied.
• If complete draining is not possible, add appropriate antifreeze.

BATTERY PROTECTION – Cold climate conditions are not good for batteries so stow them inside your home.

SCHEDULE a MARINE SURVEY – If you haven’t done so within the past few years, now is the best time to have your boat inspected by the professionals for part and component wear and tear. This can be a life-saving practice if there is deterioration.  (For a competent marine surveyor, see http://www.marinesurvey.org/).

All of the above suggestions will keep your watercraft in shape for the coming year’s enjoyment. Of course, acquiring adequate coverage at  competitive quotes will ensure your time aboard with family and friends will be free from worry as well.

Ahoy,Captain! For smooth sailin’ and smooth cruisin’, Contact PRIME Insurance via our insurance website, by emailing PRIME [at] primeins [dot] com or by calling 732-886-5751to discuss all your insurance boat needs and options!

 Summary:

Summer’s gone, fall is upon us. It’s time to say goodbye to your boat until next year. Get the right tips from PRIME Insurance on what you can do before stowing your watercraft away to ease the winterizing process.