How much does it cost to winter a boat? The value of protecting your boat

The summer season is perfect for sailing your boat. Once the summer season is over, rain and bad weather can cause damage to your boat if it has not been properly protected.

That’s why in this post we’ll show you the importance of protecting your boat so that, the following summer, it’s in perfect condition.

Types of boat wintering

Currently, there are two possibilities to winter your boat during the coldest time of the year: in or out of the water.

Floating

This wintering consists of keeping your boat in the water during the twelve months of the year. It is the most known option because its cost is lower; however, the deterioration of the boat is greater because it is in constant contact with the water.

In addition, the sway of the waves exposes the joints, the pole and the boom. Even so, the most common thing is for owners to moor their boats afloat during the winter and take them out for a few days, for external maintenance.

The main advantage of this type of wintering, in addition to its low cost, is that you can use your boat whenever you want, that is, if a winter day is good and you want, you can go sailing without any complications.

Dry Marina

For its part, wintering in a dry marina is perfect for those who know that they will not use the boat for a long period of time. In principle it is a little more expensive, the initial outlay is higher, but in the long run it is more profitable.

If you choose this option, your boat will be protected against osmosis and its deterioration will be much less. Within these options you can choose between outdoor wintering warehouses or wintering warehouses.

Types of exterior protection for the boat

Independently of the type of wintering that you choose, you must know the different types of exterior protection that you must use so that your boat does not deteriorate.

Tarpaulin for dockside winter storage

The protection with breathable fabric or canvas avoids the condensation of humidity, very typical of areas close to the sea; in this way, the possibility that your boat suffers a damage is less.

This option is ideal for floating winter storage; it is also advisable to use a breathable cover protector so that the sun does not damage or change the colour of your cover.

Boat shrink-wrapping

Despite the advantages of leaving your boat in a dry marina, it is necessary to cover it with a shrink-wrap of the boat to protect it from dust, dirt and possible scratches from the hull during transport and stay in the ship.

Plastic for winter storage shed

Another option to keep your boat in perfect condition in a ship is to cover it with a specialized plastic or film that covers the ship quickly and prevents dirt.

Differences between leaving the boat afloat or in a wintering area

As you have already seen, there are differences between wintering a boat afloat or in a dry marina; next we will show you which are the main characteristics of each one of them.

Floating

These are the main characteristics of leaving a boat afloat.

• Navigation. You can use your boat at any time.
• Moorings. Although they are very resistant, friction and the atmospheric climate can wear them down and break them.
• Fenders. To avoid breakage it is necessary to cover the most protruding areas of the boat.
• Vaseline. It is necessary to put it in locks and padlocks so that, when the summer returns, you can open your boat easily.
• Full tank. If you don’t, fungus may develop.
• Protection. You should use a breathable canvas to cover those items that cannot be removed. It is also recommended to put it in the cockpit area of the boat.

Dry Marina

For its part, these are the main characteristics of leaving your boat in a wintering area.

• Costs. Transportation and rent will be higher but you will save on mooring and pontoon.
• Time. Regardless of the type you choose, it is advisable to take the boat out of the water between 4 and 6 months to avoid osmosis. In the case of wooden boats, they must be taken out at least once a year.
• Damage. You must apply a film to avoid possible scratches and wear during transport and maintenance.

Advantages of wintering the boat

Winterizing your boat is one of the best ways to avoid your ship’s breakdowns. This time, when you can not use your boat, serves to review its operation and ensure that, in summer, your boat will be in perfect condition.

In the case of onshore storage, you can clean and treat your boat’s hull and interior; you also protect the boat from moisture and corrosion.

7 Essential tips for wintering a boat

Here are some tips that can help you winter your boat.

1. Look at options. It’s important that you look at all the possibilities before deciding on one. However, bear in mind that Mediterranean ports, such as Ibiza and Formentera, do not have a low cost.
2. Remove the detachable elements. It is essential that you remove everything you can from the boat, such as schools or sails. In this way you increase their useful life and keep them in good condition.
3. Keep an eye on the electricity. Although all electrical circuits must remain unconnected, the battery must be fully charged. In addition, it is best to recharge it once a month.
4. Main engine maintenance. It is essential to change the engine oil, the tail and the oil filter relatively frequently.
5. Sanitary areas. Check if it is necessary to change the rubber gaskets or if there is any leakage. In addition, you should empty the black water and disinfect the area. It is also recommended that you leave the drinking water tanks full.
6. Tarpaulins. You must choose breathable elements that avoid humidity and allow you to cover your boat from bad weather.
7. Textiles. Wash all your covers before storing them.

How do you prepare the boat for wintering?

These are some of the actions we recommend you do to prepare your boat for wintering:

• List of broken things: the winter is very long and, thanks to these notes, you can know what to do.
• Decide on the type of wintering.
• Extract the removable elements from the boat.
• Check your boat insurance.
• Clean and dry the sails.
• Protect your boat with a breathable canvas or heat-shrinkable plastic.

If neither of these options convince you, you can always choose to rent a boat for a few days in summer and enjoy sailing without any other concerns.