How to Effectively Winterise Your Boat

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As winter approaches, it's essential to properly winterise your boat to protect it from harsh weather conditions and ensure it's in top shape when spring arrives. Whether you decide to keep your boat in the water or take it out, the following steps will guide you through the best practices to winterise your vessel.

Should You Leave Your Boat in the Water?

The first decision to make is whether to leave your boat in the water or haul it out. While taking the boat out of the water is often recommended, if you choose to leave it in, there are extra precautions you should take. Doubling up on your mooring lines and adding additional fenders will help safeguard your boat against rough winter weather. Also, bear in mind that you might visit the boat less frequently, so these precautions become even more crucial.

Engine Servicing: Why It Matters in Autumn

Servicing your boat's engine in the autumn, rather than waiting until spring, might seem unusual, but it has significant benefits. By doing so, your engine will have fresh oil and properly maintained antifreeze, ensuring it's fully prepared for the cold months. Additionally, this approach helps you avoid the spring rush when everyone else is trying to get their engines serviced before the boating season starts.

Battery Care During Winter

If you have a smaller boat, it's advisable to remove the batteries and store them at home. However, if your boat remains in the water, the batteries need to stay on board to power automatic bilge pumps. For boats that have access to shore power, you can leave the batteries on a trickle charge to maintain their condition throughout the winter.

Preparing the Water System

Properly preparing your boat's water system is another crucial step. Start by draining all water from the system by turning on the taps. Pay special attention to your hot water calorifier, which may have a drain plug for easy emptying. Also, don't forget about the shower—this area can trap water and is prone to freezing and cracking, so it's wise to remove the shower head.

It's also essential to empty your water tank and ensure your toilet is pumped out and drained. To keep the seals moist, consider running a small amount of washing-up liquid through the system. Conversely, your fuel tank should be kept completely full to minimise the chances of moisture formation and the growth of microbes, such as the dreaded diesel bug.

Managing Sea-Cocks

Sea-cocks require special attention depending on whether your boat is in or out of the water. If your boat remains in the water, closing the sea-cocks can provide peace of mind. However, if you haul your boat out, leaving the sea-cocks open allows any trapped water to drain out, reducing the risk of freezing and damage.

Protecting the Interior

The interior of your boat also needs protection from winter's chill. Soft furnishings, including cushions, curtains, bedding, and clothing, should be removed if possible. The same goes for carpets and upholstery. If you can't remove these items, at least lift them to allow air circulation, which helps prevent mould and mildew.

To keep the interior dry, consider using a dehumidifier. A desiccant dehumidifier is ideal for colder conditions, as it works more effectively than a compressor type in low temperatures. Ensure the dehumidifier is securely placed, especially if your boat is still in the water and subject to rocking from waves.

Final Thoughts

By following these winterisation tips, you can help ensure that your boat remains in excellent condition throughout the winter. Come spring, your boat will be ready for another season on the water, looking just as good as it did when you laid it up for winter.