winterizing a sailboat

How to Winterize Your Sailboat

How to Store a Sailboat for the Winter | Life of Sailing

We all know how it feels when that first cool breeze of winter comes creeping across the water and strikes your sails. All things must end, and when boating season comes to a close, that means it's time for sailors to winterize and store their sailboats. So, how do you store a sailboat for the winter?

Properly winterizing and storing your sailboat can take a good deal of both preparation and planning. At the most basic level, it simply entails draining all fluids, making minor adjustments and repairs, covering the boat, and then finding a place to store it. There are many different places you may be able to store your sailboat depending on its size. We'll go over all of your different options here for long-term sailboat storage.

Proper winterization can make all the difference when it comes time to pull your boat back out next spring. Winterization ensures that your boat lasts a long time with minimal need for expensive repairs and replaced parts. When you're done with this article, you should know everything you need to know about both winterization and storing your boat for the winter.

Table of contents

What Is Winterization?

For the most part, winterization simply means draining all the fluids from your boat that could freeze in extreme temperatures and damage the engine over the course of the winter. However, most sailors also use the winterization process as an excuse to perform routine maintenance and inspect for general repairs on their sailboats. Sailboats can get pretty grimy and scuffed-up over a full summer of sailing, so keeping up on your boat's appearances and performance before the start of each winter is a great idea.

The Winterization Process Made Simple

Step 1: drain the fuel.

If You Have a Gasoline Engine

This process can go two different ways depending on whether your boat has a diesel engine or a gasoline engine. If your sailboat has a diesel engine, the process of preparing your fuel tank for the winter can be slightly more complicated. If your sailboat has a gasoline engine, all you really have to do is run or drain all the fuel out of the engine and then leave the tank empty.

If You Have a Diesel Engine

If you have a diesel engine, there is a slightly more complicated process that will help to better ensure that your engine isn't injured over the long winter months. First, supplement your fuel tank with a stabilizer. Stabilizer prevents fuel from separating over the winter.

One the stabilizer has been added, top off the fuel tank with fresh diesel fuel. When you are finished with this, you will then want to go through and replace all of the fuel filters. Finally, drain the water separator until it's completely dry.

After this process, run the engine for 10 to 20 minutes so that the stabilizer has a chance to flow through all the fuel in the system. As you are letting the engine run, you can take the opportunity to ensure that there are no leaks in any of the fuel lines.

Step 2: Drain All Water from the System and Replace It with Antifreeze

The first step to this process is to completely drain the fresh water system of your boat. Once you are sure that the system has been completely drained, it's a good idea to clean out all of the tanks to make sure that there is no crud or build-up inside. After that it's time to fill the system up with antifreeze.

Some antifreeze that you'll find at the store comes already mixed with water and some does not. Be sure to check what kind you're buying as antifreeze always needs to be mixed at a 1:1 ratio with water before being added to the system. Every pump and hose in your entire fresh water system needs to be filled with this antifreeze mixture.

Step 3: Remove the Batteries

Your boat batteries will need to be removed before winter storing. As well, you will want to make sure that you are continuing charging maintenance on them at least once a month over the winter. Without performing this routine maintenance, your batteries might be DOA come spring. Once that happens, you'll be out a pretty penny replacing them.

You can use the opportunity provided by removing the batteries to take a glance at all the electrical connections and ensure that there are no problem areas. You should also gather up any and all marine electronics on board and take them inside with you for the winter. These can be damaged or stolen so it's not worth the convenience to store them.

Step 4: Remove All Other Extraneous Supplies

The less you leave on board your sailboat before storage the better. Anything you leave out runs the risk of weathering, damage, or theft. Loose items also have a tendency to get lost or simply become clutter.

You should check to ensure that all safety equipment is in top working order and that none of it is in need of replacement. Take account of all personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers, flares, and dock lines, as well as any other piece of safety equipment you are keeping on your sailboat. Some of these things will have an expiration date you should check every year to make sure that they are always working at their ideal level.

Step 5: Perform Routine Cleaning

Winterization is the perfect excuse to make sure your sailboat is sparkling clean. From the outside in, sailboats can get pretty messy over just the course of a season or two. Performing routine cleaning once a year will ensure that the dirt, grime, and contents of your sailboat never grow out of hand.

Firstly, you'll want to scrub down every surface on both the inside and outside of the boat. Salt and grime build-up on your boat can cause unwanted decay over extended periods of time. The more often you clean this build-up off of your sailboat, the longer it will last you.

Once you are satisfied with the outside and surface of your boat, it's time to get into the really messy bits. Any storage area or cabinet should be cleaned and excised of wanton garbage. Whittle everything down to the bare necessities and then store those necessities in a cool, dry place away from your boat for the winter.

Other parts of your sailboat that should be cleaned include any and all hardware fixtures, as well as and including the mast. Once you are finished with your cleaning, you will want to ensure that everything is properly dried before storage. Any and all water needs to be eliminated from your boat until the spring!

Step 6: Inspect Your Sailboat for Repairs

As we've already suggested, the winterization process is the perfect time to make a periodic inspection of your sailboat for any necessary repairs it may be needing soon. As with any type of vehicle, whether on land or sea, there are many little things that can go wrong with a sailboat. Always being proactive and keeping an eye out for repairs before the need becomes obvious can help ensure minimal damage, as well as minimal repairs costs.

You will want to inspect both the deck and the hull for any blistering or cracking that may be occurring. This will happen naturally and it's a good idea to deal with it as it comes up. Corrosion and grime build-up is another must to be dealt with.

Internally, you'll want to check the lifelines for any signs of corrosion. As well, you should make sure that your mainsheet system, turning blocks, winches, seacocks, and rope clutches are maintaining well. Then you will need to remove all of the tape from the spreader tips and turnbuckles so that you can give them each a quick inspection and be sure they're all working properly.

Finally, you'll need to remove and inspect the mast. You will also want to check the boom and the rigging for any wear they may have sustained over the spring and summer. Should anything need repairing, you've got two full seasons to deal with it!

Step 7: Repair the Sails and Store Them

As with other parts of your sailboat, cleaning your sails is always a good idea before putting them away. However, excessive cleaning can do more harm to your sails than good. For this reason, a simple light spraying and brushing of your sails should suffice.

Once you've managed to wash your sails, you should also be careful when it comes to how you dry them. Dacron and nylon, the materials that sails are generally made of, tend to be harmed by strong sunlight. For this reason, many people prefer to let their sails dry inside, whether in an indoor storage area or a large garage.

You should also make sure that your sails aren't in need of patching. Patching sails is an easy DIY job that you can perform with needles and patches from most boating supply stores. Ensuring that your sails are free from rips and tears is a must come spring.

There's one more thing you should keep in mind before storing your sails. Mice and other rodents tend to have a field day with the fabric that sails are made out of. If rodents get wind of your sails, they will likely be in worse condition come springtime than they are right now!

In order to keep your sails away from the clutches of pesky rodents, there are a couple of steps you can take. For one thing, you can keep them wrapped in plastic. For another thing, you should try to store them in an area that rodents will have a hard time reaching.

Step 8: Drain and Flush the Head

Should your sailboat have a head, it will need to be both drained and then flushed before winter storage. This should be done by pumping out the holding tank thoroughly. Once finished, add new water and then flush it through multiple times.

After several times flushing the tank, close the seacock for water intake, unplug the hose, and then fill the head full of the same 50/50 antifreeze and water mixture you used elsewhere. Be sure that at least some antifreeze makes it into the holding tank. Once you are done, simply replace the hose and then leave the seacock in the closed position.

Step 9: Arrange the Cabin

This step can entail a few different things depending on the specifics of your sailboat. Simply finalize everything and then be sure that there is nothing left over that needs to be taken care of. There are many extraneous parts on a sailboat that may call for special winterization steps.

If you have a stove on your sailboat, you will need to make sure that the propane tank is closed. As well, you should burn the stove for a few minutes to guarantee that there is no leftover propane sitting unburnt in the pipes. Once you are done, seal all the lines and then take all propane tanks off the boat for the winter.

Also be sure to mind any attached cloth and canvas parts on your sailboat. Steps will need to be taken to preserve these from rodents and pests. You can get a lot of use out of mothballs sprinkled around the vicinity near clothes to help keep the pests at bay. Otherwise, you can make use of plastic fabric and couch covers.

Step 10: Cover Your Boat

Now it's time to cover your sailboat. You will want to cover your sailboat regardless of whether you are storing it inside or outside. However, you may be able to get away with a less heavy-duty covering if you are storing your boat inside.

Special canvas covers are made for outdoor storing of sailboats. You are likely going to want to spring for one of these, as anything less allows for the possibility of unnecessary wear on your boat. If you are storing your boat inside then you can use a simple trailering cover or even just shrink-wrap.

Always Read the Owner's Manual Before Doing Anything!

Whether performing basic winterization, maintenance, or repairs, always be sure that you have read the owner's manual first! Articles like this one can be a lot of help, but they are typically written for the most general of audiences. Your boat may have specific features and needs that invalidate information that you read elsewhere.

Your owner's manual may also have some very helpful tips for winterization and storage. Boat manufacturers will typically take the extra care to include detailed winterization instructions in order to alleviate their own liability for potential damage to their products that may occur in the winter months. Keeping abreast of the specifics of your sailboat is always the number one most important way to make sure your sailboat is being properly taken care of.

Do I Need to Winterize My Boat?

While boat owners oftentimes dread the prospect of winterization, it is incredibly important. The more care you put into winterization, the faster you'll be able to get your sailboat back out on the waters come winter. As well, proper winterization and maintenance ensures the longest possible life for your sailboat.

Should you for some reason choose to opt out of the winterization process, you may be able to find a place that will do it for you. Many boatyards will perform basic winterization for a reasonable (though not small) fee. You can even choose to store your boat at that same boatyard to make everything as simple and easy as possible.

Winterization and proper storage will protect your boat from rain, snow, sun, and extreme temperatures. As well, performing routine maintenance and repairs during the winterization process is a proactive way to ensure the longest life for your boat. Whether these steps are performed by you or someone else, always be sure to get them done.

Where and How Should I Store My Sailboat?

Now we get to the good part, and by that I mean the end. Once the winterization process is complete and routine maintenance has been performed, it's finally time to secure yourself some storage and store your boat away. Of course, there are many different options depending on your wants, needs, and price.

As is typical with these kinds of things, the more money you spend, the more protection your boat is going to get. However, the highest price-point isn't always going to be viable or even necessary for the average boat owner. Here are some of the best options for long-term boat storage that are available for sailboat owners:

Your Own Property

The first and easiest method is to simply find a space on your own property that would be suitable for storing your boat. Not only is this method free but it also allows you to always be sure that your boat is where you think it is and that no one is breaking into it. However, you will need to have both room and shelter for it.

Another problem that can come up when trying to store your boat on your own land is the matter of HOAs, or homeowner's associations, and other local jurisdictions that may impose themselves on your property. Some municipalities do not like homeowners to store boats on their properties as they feel it makes the neighborhood look uncomely. In this case, you are pretty much forced to find another place to store your boat.

Outdoor Storage Facility

This would be any self-storage facility that allows you to store your stuff outside. Outdoor storage can be a good deal cheaper than indoor storage but it means that your boat will be at a higher risk. Be sure to keep this in mind before making your final decision.

With outdoor facilities, the type of paved surface your boat is being stored on may make some difference as far as the overall price point is concerned. Nice, smooth paving may make it easier for you to get your boat and trailer in and out of storage but it might also mean you'll have to pay a little bit more. Know what you're getting yourself into!

If you choose to go with an outdoor facility, you may wish to spring for a heavy-duty cover for your boat. Be aware that your boat will be totally susceptible to any rain and snow that will be occurring over the winter and fall. While winterization will ensure that your pipes don't bust, it doesn't mean that damage won't be done to the surface of your boat.

Indoor Storage Facility

There are many indoor storage facilities with units large enough to store even the most excessive boats and trailers. An indoor facility will provide maximum coverage and protection for your sailboat. However, it will be a more expensive option when compared to outdoor storage or storage on your own property.

Storing your boat at a boatyard is also sometimes referred to as "dry storage" or "rack storage". Sometimes marinas will also have their own boatyards for dry storage. Boatyards are specially-designed facilities that are intended for storing boats on land in a carefully organized facility over the winter. As such, they are typically located fairly close to large bodies of water.

As we've mentioned, a boatyard may be able to provide you with winterization services. Always be sure to make these plans well beforehand so you can be certain you won't have to perform any aspect of winterization yourself. This is another reason why boatyards are a great option for some sailboat owners.

Storing your boat at a marina isn't an option for all climates as it means your boat stays permanently in the water. Obviously, this is going to cause some issues should the water totally freeze over. However, if your climate allows for it, marina storage might be the long-term storage option for you. As well, some marinas in climates where water typically freezes over during the winter may offer dry storage.

Your boat remaining in the water is both the main positive and main drawback of marina storage. Having your boat ready and waiting for next season could be a huge benefit if it doesn't cause extraneous damage. One huge caveat, though, is that marina storage is typically fairly expensive, especially compared to other options.

Finding the Best Option for You and Your Sailboat

As you can see, where and how you store your boat is largely up to you and your needs. There are multiple options for any and all size boats and any and all types of winter. The larger your boat, the more expensive storage will be. The harsher the winter, the more imperative correct winterization is.

Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How to Winterize Your Sailboat

When you start to feel that fall chill in the air you know it’s time to start thinking about readying your boat for the winter. Preparing your boat for a long, cold winter is a must, especially if you want to get back out on the water quickly in the spring.

The main goal of winterizing is to remove all fluids that could freeze, however it is also a good time to clean off the grime of summer and make any necessary repairs. Proper winterization will ensure no surprises in the spring. To help with a smooth transition, we have complied a list of 10 tips for preparing your boat for the long winter.

Before diving right in, always check your boat’s owner’s manual for any boat-specific winterizing instructions. Instructions from the owner’s manual are always a must-do. Make sure nothing is forgotten by creating a checklist of tasks to be completed before you start.

1. Fill/Empty The Tank: Add some stabilizer to your diesel fuel tank and then fill the tank to capacity with fuel. Then replace all the fuel filters and drain the water separator. Run the engine for 15 minutes to let the stabilized fuel flow through the system. This is also a good time to inspect fuel lines for any leaks. For a gasoline tank, run the fuel off and leave the tank empty.

2. Protect Engine: Make sure to read the owner’s manual of your engine for specific winterizing instructions. There are different procedures for winterizing inboard and outboard engines and each individual engine is a little different.

3. Drain & Anti-Freeze: Drain the fresh water system and empty and clean out all tanks. Then, fill all hoses and pumps with a fifty-fifty mixture of water and RV anti-freeze. It is also good to try to keep the bilge as dry as possible.

4. Remove Batteries: Be sure to remove the batteries from the boat and continue to charge/recharge them every month. While removing the batteries, check the electrical connections on board. It is also wise to remove marine electronics from the boat and store them at home for the winter. If desired, this is also a good time to remove dock lines, flotation devices, flares, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment from the boat for inspection and replacement if needed.

5. Clean, Clean, Clean: Winterization is the perfect opportunity to clean your vessel from top to bottom. Clean out the inside of the boat, emptying all lockers, food lockers, icebox, and refrigerator. Wash down all the surfaces of the boat inside and out. Also be sure to clean the hardware, mast, and rigging to remove any salt or grime. Thoroughly clean and dry enclosures. For cleaning canvas, like Sunbrella, we recommend using 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner, it does a great job and will safely clean a number of surfaces. Lightly wax fiberglass surfaces and touch up any chipping paint.

6. Inspect for Repairs: Checking for and making repairs in the fall will help you get out on the water faster in the spring. Be sure to inspect the hull and deck for cracks or blisters and repair if necessary. Check lifelines for signs of corrosion and inspect and service all seacocks, winches, turning blocks, rope clutches, and the mainsheet system. Remove the mast and inspect mast, boom, and rigging for wear and damage. Also inspect the electrical wiring inside the mast. Remove tape from spreader tips and turnbuckles and inspect.

7. Repair & Store Sails: Before packing your sails away, you will want to clean them. Since cleaning sails can reduce their durability, it’s a good idea to just spray them with water and lightly brush out stubborn spots. Try not to dry sails by sunlight, as UV rays are harmful to Dacron and nylon. Carefully dry the sails in the garage instead. This is a good time to make any needed repair to sails as well. If your sail needs to be serviced, Sailrite stocks a full line of needles, patches, and other sail repair supplies. For more details of problems to look for and how to repair them, check out this Sailrite PDF on Getting Sails Ready for Winter Storage .

When storing sails, make sure that they will be protected from rodents. Dacron sailcloth is a favorite mouse snack, and they will chew little ragged holes all through your sail without a safeguard. There are two good options to prevent this: first, suspend your sail bags from a height, like rafters of a garage or barn. Or sprinkle mothballs inside your sail bag. For foolproof protection, do both.

8. Empty the Head: If your boat has a head onboard, it will need to be drained and flushed out. Pump out the holding tank and then add fresh water to the bowl and flush several times. Close the water intake seacock, remove the hose, and pump the head full of anti-freeze, making sure some of the anti-freeze goes into the holding tank. Replace the hose, leaving the seacock closed.

9. Arrange Cabin: There are some things that you will want to take care of below decks to keep everything in top order over the winter. If your boat has a stove, make sure to close the propane bottle and light the stove to clean any propane in the pipes. When the stove goes out, close off the supply at the stove. Seal the end of the propane line and make sure there are no leaks. Remove the propane from the boat.

To keep cushions nice, pull them all out, tilt them upwards, and unzip them so air can flow around them. Open all compartments, doors, and hatches to increase air flow. If storing canvas projects inside your boat (such as biminis or dodgers) lay the canvas out as flat as possible, taking special care with any vinyl windows. If windows need to be stacked, place a bed sheet between each one. Sprinkle some mothballs around the cabin to keep the rodents away if desired.

10. Cover: Whether storing your boat inside or outside, a cover is a necessity. For outdoor storage a Sunbrella Marine Grade or other canvas cover is ideal. If you are storing your boat indoors, use a trailering cover or shrink-wrap. Make sure there is an anti-chafe material and that the cover is fitted so rodents and bugs can’t crawl up underneath. Custom-made boat covers fit best.

Getting your boat ready for the winter can be a tedious process but is well worth it. A clean boat in the fall means a clean boat in the spring—and we’ll be counting down the days!

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Better Sailing

How to Winterize Your Sailboat

Winter maintenance of our sailboat is one of the most important things that we must do every year with great care and planning so that our boat is ready to travel the coming season without problems and unpleasant consequences.

Proper maintenance during the extended winter immobility will save you a great deal of wear and tear, and expenses while minimizing the chances of missing out on a valuable sailing trip in the coming season.

Since we always want to be prepared, we present you with a brief guide on what our winter maintenance service should include.

Exterior Maintenance

First of all, we perform an extensive check. Then, we remove all the ropes, wash them with soap, dry them in a shady place, and store them in a dry place. Worn or rotten ropes are replaced with new ones immediately. I repetitive soak the ropes in freshwater, followed by a soak in fabric softener.

We collect the sails, wash them, repair small tears, and check them carefully for damage. Now we store them in a dry place until we need them again.

Open the winches and clean and lubricate them. Immediately after maintenance, cover them with plastic bags and tape for extra protection.

We cover all instruments with plastic bags and tape to protect them from moisture and weather.

We inspect the steering parts internally if we have a tiller and the wire ropes if we have a steering wheel.

If necessary, we send the anchor for galvanizing.

The anchor chain should be clean and not rusty. A rusty chain, apart from being ugly, can be cut, and that has terrible consequences. We send the rusty chain immediately for galvanizing.

It is a good idea to take the chain out and put it upside down so that it does not get worn at the same spots every year.

We check the rollers we use for the anchor and replace any broken, twisted, or worn ones.

In the anchor windlass, we check the following:

The screws and the gypsy wheel for wear or damage
The base and its screws
The sealing of the motor and the electrical parts

The rails and the stanchions and repair any damage

We check the mast and the boom. We check everything from the backstay, the forestay, the spreader, the chainplates to the joints, etc.

After checking, we should call an expert to tune the mast and perform the final check.

We check the toe rail for any impacts. The toe rail is usually made from aluminum and ties the hull and deck around the boat.

Check the lifejackets, replace the lantern batteries with fresh ones, and check that the lamp on the lens is working when it is in the correct position.

Haul Maintenance

Immediately after lifting and placing the boat on the stands, we scrape the algae (the green substance is on boat’s hull) and the barnacles (tiny shellfish) that has set on the hull, shaft, and propeller. These organisms, apart from being bad for the boats’ hull, can slow the speed of a sailboat up to 50% in extreme cases because it increases the “friction” between the hull and the water.

The best thing is for the boat to come out with some light algae on the hull and not with barnacles. A lot of algae with barnacles means a sub-par job at the previous maintenance.

Barnacles, especially where there are water inlet and outlet holes, reduce its flow and can block them altogether. Imagine blocking the inlet that delivers seawater to cool the engine!

After scraping the hull, we wash it with a waterjet (high-pressure water), and any items stuck on the antifouling paint are removed.
Scrub the old antifouling paint and let the boat dry.
At this point, we have the ability to check the boat for any cracks or abrasions on the kneel, rudder (steering fin), and hull of the boat. If we notice any, we need to repair them.
If we notice bubbles, we must consult with an expert to rule out the possibility of osmosis.
We change the anodes on the engine’s shaft and steering wheel.

Finally, before we put the boat back into the water, we must pass the hull with antifouling paint. It is advisable to cross the hull with two-three hands and the rudder with three-four hands and an imaginary line 15cm (6in) below the waterline. In any case, follow the antifouling paint manufacturer’s instructions.

Interior Maintenance

It’s time for large-scale cleaning. Our first job is to list the tasks that need to be done, prioritize them, and set a timetable for their completion.

We sweep, mop, wash the covers, the fabrics, and generally anything that can be removed and washed. After washing, store them in a dry place until reused. At the same time, we check for any damage. Pay special attention to the lifejackets and safety equipment.
Send lifejackets and other safety equipment for washing, checking, and any repairs like sewing.
Also, remove all the expensive and sensitive instruments inside the boat and store them in a safe and dry place.
Clean and paint the bilge if necessary and inspect the pipes and valves.
Inspect the wooden components and repair any damage.
We could varnish the wooden parts, but it’s better to do it in the spring because there is humidity than in the winter.
Check all hatches for any leaks and, if necessary, replace the gaskets. You could apply some petroleum jelly to the gaskets to improve water resistance and to promote its life lifecycle.
Check all pumps and filters for the bilge, freshwater, sewage tank, etc.
Check if the boats’ valves are working and whether they are leaking.
We take the toilet apart and check the sewage pump with great care. Make sure to close the water inlet and outlet valves first.
We are cleaning the kitchen thoroughly from the dirt it has been collecting all summer. We also check the gas’ hose for damage and the safety valves.
In the boats’ chart table we check and replace what has been damaged or lost (Nautical charts, Calipers, Pencils, etc.)
Check essentials like a flashlight, batteries, toolbox, and first aid kit, flares, etc.

Marine Engine Maintenance

Check the engine cooling seawater inlet for any blockage.
Check, clean, and change the fuel/water separator.
Change engine fuel filters
Change engine oil (every 100 hours)
Check for oil leaks. Tighten any screws in case of leakage or change the flange or seal.
Change gear oil (every 1,000 hours or once per year).
Change oil filters
Check alternator and ignition
Change the seawater pump impeller
Check the timing belt
Check the fuel supply pipe
Replace engine radiators’ anode
Check fuel tank
Check engine mount
Clean engine radiator

Tighten or replace the shafts’ packing braid/seal. A properly fitting packing braid must drip one drop every 10 or 15 turns of the shaft to cool the funnel. It is not good not to drip, because it will get hot, and that will cause damage.

With some experience, we can do all of these ourselves. In the end, it is a good idea to call a qualified marine engineer for a final check.

An important rule of every boat is that it has to come out of the water every year optionally or every two years mandatory.

When out of the water, it must be mounted on sailboat jack stands, or some special racks, usually near the marina that our boat was hauled out from. The boat should remain in this position for at least two months, and it needs thoroughly dry, then we should do the necessary hull repairs and then put back in the water.

Generally, we must be very careful with the choice of winter storage space for the boat while it is on land. It must be protected from various weather conditions (rain, strong winds, etc.) and generally anything that can damage our sailboat.

Then, we should do the following:

Check the boats’ papers (renew expired and replace worn out documents) Send the life raft for its annual inspection Check safety equipment (flares, smoke signals, etc.) expiration dates and their condition.

At least once a week, we need to put a fan heater in the boat for the humidity and leave the hatches open as long as we have it on. You can also put a dehumidifier in the boat or hang a couple of moisture-absorbing bags.

We call on an electrician to check the boats’ electronics and electrical equipment, batteries, headlights (also check the sealing), and engine electronics

We clean and polish the stainless steel and bronze parts. General cleaning and polishing complete the winter maintenance of the boat, which is now ready to sail back into the sea safely.

Drain the water from the freshwater system. Drain the hoses and the tank and then clean the tank. Leave it empty until next season. If you have a heater tank, empty and clean it after you disconnect the electrical supply.

Pump out the waste holding tank. Run fresh water through the head several times while emptying the tank.

Remove the batteries and store them in a warm, dry place. They should be stored fully charged and never store them connected to the charger.

How to Winterize Your Sailboat – Conclusion

This is a great guide of what is the optimal way to winterize your boat properly. Although most people opt for the basics, running a complete winterization will keep the longevity of our beloved sailboat and prevent any issues next year. Also, remember that it is cheaper to maintain something than fix it all together when the time comes.

It is true that many sailors literally dump their boats in a corner and are reminded of them when the days begin to rise again and the temperature rises. But surely this is a bad mentality that leads to a “slow death” of our beloved boats. Please, after reading this sailboat winterization guide, don’t let that be you.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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Cheat Sheet on How to Winterize Your Boat

By Randy Vance
Updated: January 21, 2021

Too many boats die silently in their winter beds. But follow these easy tips, and your boat will be ready and eager to go in the spring.

Fuel Treatment

Treat your boat’s fuel with a stabilizer. Pennzoil Fuel Stabilizer, PRI-G and Stabil are ideal products for this job. After adding it to the fuel, run the engine for 10 minutes or so to be sure stabilized fuel circulates throughout the engine. If you don’t stabilize the fuel, carburetors and fuel injectors can be clogged with varnish deposits that ruin fuel systems. Cost if you do: $5 to $10. Cost if you don’t: $250 to $1,200.

Fog the Engine Cylinders

Aerosol fogging solutions coat the inside of the engine to protect it until spring. Each engine manufacturer makes proprietary products they promote as ideal for their engines. Hook “ear muffs” and a garden hose to the engine, start it, and then spray the fogging-solution lubricant directly into the air intake until it’s gone. If you don’t fog the engine cylinders, corrosion can form inside the engine, covering the cylinders, pistons and rings with a patina of abrasive crud. Cost if you do: $5 to $15. Cost if you don’t: $2,500 to $15,000 (or more).

Drain the Engine (for inboards and stern-drives)

Locate and open the petcocks (some engines have bronze plugs similar to bilge plugs) underneath the manifolds and on the sides of the engine block. Remove the water-pump hose from the bottom of the water pump to let it drain completely. If you don’t drain the engine, water in the cooling chambers can freeze, expand and crack the engine block and manifolds. Tip: Newer MerCruiser stern-drives have handy drainage systems with one drain plug near the front of the engine. Outboards self-drain and never require this step. Cost if you do: $0. Cost if you don’t: $5,000 to $20,000.

Change the Oil

Change engine oil to eliminate moisture and prevent corrosion. If you don’t, moisture can cause excessive wear, which can lead to loss of power, poor fuel economy and possible engine failure. Tip: Some mechanics change the oil both in the fall and at spring breakout on the theory that the engine oil needs to be changed at the end of the summer and after suffering the ravages of winter because moisture may again accumulate in the oil. Cost if you do: $30 to $75. Cost if you don’t: $500 (in extra fuel) to $20,000 (engine failure).

Read Next: Complete Guide to Winterizing

Drain the Gear-Case Lubricant (and recycle it)

Clear, amber-colored lubricant means your gear-case seals are in good shape. Milky and sometimes lumpy oil means the seals need to be replaced . Tip: The time to do this is in the fall when marine mechanics are less busy and sometimes willing to offer special prices for winter work. Cost if you do: $10. Cost if you don’t: $2,000 to $6,000.

More: How-To , Preventative Care , winterizing

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How to Winterize a Boat: An Expert Guide

September 03, 2024

Maintaining your boat is the best way to keep making great memories on it for as long as possible. Regular maintenance is already part of your routine, but boats require special attention at certain times of year — like when being stored for the winter.

When you’re done enjoying the water for the season, follow our detailed guide on how to winterize a boat .

Why Winterize a Boat?

Effective winterization today prevents costly repairs tomorrow and ensures a smoother start to your next boating season.

When thinking about winterization, many focus primarily on their engines — but proper winterizing protects far more than just the engine. The winterization process safeguards your entire boat, inside and out, with benefits like:

Protecting the engine: If you don’t winterize your boat, water could freeze inside the engine, cracking it entirely or creating other internal problems.
Stabilizing fuel: You can keep fuel fresh and unfrozen by using a fuel stabilizer to keep condensation from accumulating.
Maintaining battery life: Properly removing and storing batteries prevents damage and power drainage.
Safeguarding the hull: Winter is harsh on paint and boat materials, but you can prevent blistering and other issues by winterizing.
Preventing mold and corrosion: A boat that’s clean and dry both inside and out is less likely to develop mold and moisture-related corrosion.
Ensuring lubrication: Lubricating protects against rust and corrosion of moving parts.
Deterring pests: Rodents and insects can make a big mess during the off season, but winterizing keeps these pests out.
Preserving the interior: Thoroughly cleaning your boat’s interior and removing sensitive items ensures it stays safe all winter long.

Quote: An Expert Guide on How to Winterize a Boat

Tools for Winterizing Your Boat

To winterize your boat successfully, you’ll need:

An air compressor for clearing water lines
Non-toxic antifreeze to prevent freezing in systems
Fuel stabilizer to keep fuel from deteriorating
An automatic battery charger to preserve battery charge
Basic tools for water draining and simple repairs
Marine-grade lubricants to protect moving parts
Eco-friendly supplies for a thorough cleaning
High-quality covers for your boat and equipment

Infographic: An Expert Guide on How to Winterize a Boat

How to Winterize a Boat: Step by Step

Don’t be intimidated by the length of your boat winterizing checklist; taking it step by step makes it simple. Here are the key parts to focus on and our best tips for how to winterize a boat the right way:

1. Engine and Cooling System

Start by draining any water from the engine. This will prevent freezing and cracking. Next, fill the system with antifreeze designed for marine engines. We recommend a non-toxic, propylene glycol-based antifreeze, which is safe for the environment and your engine.

2. Fuel System

Fill your fuel tank to reduce space for condensation. Otherwise, your fuel tank could freeze and become damaged. Adding a fuel stabilizer will prevent the fuel from degrading. Be sure to use a marine-specific fuel stabilizer, then briefly run the engine to distribute it through the system.

To prevent cold damage and discharge, disconnect and remove your fully charged battery, and then store it in a cool, dry place. A battery maintainer isn’t strictly necessary, but it can help your battery stay charged and in top condition during long winter months.

4. Bilge and Pumps

Clean your bilge and pumps thoroughly, ensuring all water is removed from the system. You can also add antifreeze to prevent any residual water from freezing and causing damage. While you’re cleaning, you have a great opportunity to check for and repair any leaks before they worsen over the winter.

5. Freshwater System

Drain all tanks, water heaters, and lines, then pump non-toxic antifreeze into the system. When you’re ready to get back on your boat again, first flush the system with fresh water to make sure it’s clean and safe.

6. Interior

To guard against theft, remove all valuables and electronics before you store your boat. And don’t forget to double-check for perishables (unless you look forward to the smell of rotting food next year).

Clean the interior of your boat thoroughly and leave compartments slightly open to ensure air circulation and prevent mold and mildew. We suggest using moisture-absorbing products and mildew inhibitors to protect interior surfaces.

7. Exterior and Hull

Weather and UV rays both pose risks to the exterior and hull of your boat. To safeguard against both, start with a deep clean and then apply a coat of protective wax. Finally, cover the boat with a well-fitted, breathable cover. Ensuring a great fit helps prevent pooling water and ice formation, which can stress the boat structure.

8. Drives and Lower Units

Now is the time to check for and repair any damage to your drives and lower units. Pay close attention to seals and gaskets — leaks could let water in and cause ice damage. To prevent other moisture-related issues, change the gear oil.

9. Steering and Control Systems

You can stop corrosion in its tracks and ensure smooth operation in the spring by lubricating moving parts in your steering and control systems during winterization. Using marine-grade lubricants and protectants designed for your system will maximize effectiveness.

Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a professional as you winterize to make sure you’re protecting your boat the best you possibly can.

How to Winterize a Boat: Special Considerations

Winterizing looks a little different for every type of boat and storage strategy. Tailor your approach to your specific boat and scenario for effective winterization.

Engine Types

You’ll follow a slightly different process for winterizing each engine configuration. But when it comes down to it, an engine is an engine, whether it’s on a sailboat or a motorboat.

Here’s a simplified overview of a few different tasks you may encounter:

Sailboats: Protect sailboat engines from freeze damage by draining the engine and tank, then adding antifreeze.
Inboard engines: In addition to draining water, you’ll need to flush the cooling system, fill up the fuel tank, use fuel stabilizer, and protect internal components from corrosion.
Outboard engines: You can remove an outboard engine and store it separately, but you may still need to drain, lubricate, and apply antifreeze to certain components.
Inboard-outboard (sterndrive) engines: Blend the inboard and outboard approaches to motor maintenance, focusing on draining, fuel stabilization, and changing the oil.

Storage Scenarios

Let’s go over the last few items on your winterization to-do list, depending on where you store your boat.

For boats stored in water:

Close all seacocks to prevent water entry, except in the cockpit, where you still want to let water out.
Tighten rudder shafts and stuffing boxes to prevent leaks.
Inspect dock lines to make sure they’re durable enough to stand up to winter conditions.

For all boats:

Clean and dry all storage areas to stop mold and mildew from developing.
Leave the marine refrigerator open to avoid odors and mildew.
Store cushions vertically to enhance air circulation and prevent mildew.
Use moisture absorbers throughout the boat to further lower the risk of mold and mildew.

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How to Winterize A Sailboat

Table of Contents

What is Sailboat Winterisation? What is the purpose of winterising a sailboat?

Winterizing a sailboat is the process of preparing the boat for storage during the winter months, in order to protect it from the harsh weather and prolong its lifespan.

Step by Step Guide on How to Winterize a Sailboat

Here are some steps to follow when winterizing a sailboat:

Clean the boat

When cleaning the sailboat, it is important to be thorough and pay close attention to all areas of the boat. This will help to prevent damage from salt and other elements that can cause corrosion.

Here are some steps to follow when cleaning the boat:

Rinse the deck and hull : Use a high-pressure hose to remove any dirt, salt, and debris from the deck and hull of the boat. This will help to prevent the buildup of corrosive materials.
Clean the windows and surfaces : Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the windows, surfaces, and other areas of the boat. Make sure to clean any areas that have been exposed to salt, such as the steering wheel and cleats.
Clean the interior : Clean the interior of the boat, including the seats, bedding, and other areas. Vacuum the floor and remove any food or trash.
Dry the boat : Thoroughly dry the boat with towels or a soft cloth. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Apply a protectant : Apply a protectant to the boat’s exterior surfaces to help protect them from the elements and prolong their lifespan.

It is important to take the time to properly clean the boat before storing it for the winter. This will help to keep the boat in good condition and ensure that it is ready for use when the spring sailing season begins.

Remove sails and rigging

Removing the sails and rigging is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to protect these components from damage during storage. Here are some steps to follow when removing the sails and rigging:

Take down the sails : Remove the sails from the boat, being careful not to damage them. Store them in a dry, protected place, such as a sail bag.
Remove the rigging : Disconnect the ropes and lines from the mast and boom. Store the ropes in a dry, protected place.
Inspect the sails and rigging : Inspect the sails and rigging for any signs of wear or damage, and make any necessary repairs.
Clean the sails and rigging : Clean the sails and rigging with a mild soap and water solution. Make sure to remove any salt, dirt, and debris.
Store the sails and rigging : Store the sails and rigging in a dry, protected place, such as a sail loft or storage room.

It is important to handle the sails and rigging with care, as they are critical components of the boat and can be expensive to replace. By taking the time to properly store them during the winter, you can help to protect them and prolong their lifespan.

Drain the water systems

Draining the water systems is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to prevent damage from freezing water. Here are some steps to follow when draining the water systems:

Empty the water tanks : Empty the water tanks, including the fresh water tank, hot water tank, and shower sump.
Flush the plumbing : Flush the plumbing system with a non-toxic antifreeze solution, such as propylene glycol, to prevent damage from freezing water.
Drain the water heater : Drain the water heater, and remove any residual water.
Disconnect the hoses : Disconnect the hoses from the water systems and drain them. Store the hoses in a dry, protected place.

It is important to properly drain the water systems in order to prevent damage from freezing water. This will help to ensure that the boat’s systems are ready for use when the spring sailing season begins.

Protect the engine

Protecting the engine is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to prevent damage from the cold and other elements during storage. Here are some steps to follow when protecting the engine:

Change the oil : Change the oil and replace the oil filter. This will help to remove any contaminants and prolong the lifespan of the engine.
Fog the engine : Fogging the engine involves spraying a fine mist of oil into the engine’s cylinders to protect the internal components from rust and corrosion.
Add fuel stabilizer : Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank to help prevent the fuel from breaking down and forming harmful deposits.
Disconnect the batteries : Disconnect the batteries and store them in a dry, protected place.
Cover the engine : Cover the engine with a protective cover to help protect it from dust and debris.

It is important to take the time to properly protect the engine in order to ensure that it is ready for use when the spring sailing season begins. By following these steps, you can help to prolong the lifespan of the engine and keep it running smoothly.

Cover the boat

Covering the boat is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to protect it from the elements and prevent damage during storage. Here are some steps to follow when covering the boat:

Choose the right cover : Choose a cover that is specifically designed for your boat, taking into account its size, shape, and type.
Clean the boat : Clean the boat thoroughly, removing any dirt, debris, and bird droppings.
Install the cover : Install the cover over the boat, making sure that it fits properly and covers all exposed areas.
Secure the cover : Secure the cover to the boat using tie-downs, straps, or a ratchet system, to prevent it from blowing off during high winds.
Ventilate the cover : Make sure to provide proper ventilation under the cover to prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Covering the boat is an effective way to protect it from the elements and prevent damage during storage. By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your boat is ready for use when the spring sailing season begins.

Check the electrical systems

Checking the electrical systems is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to prevent damage from the cold and other elements during storage. Here are some steps to follow when checking the electrical systems:

Remove batteries : Remove the batteries from the boat and store them in a dry, protected place.
Check wiring : Check the wiring for any signs of wear or damage, such as frayed or broken wires, and repair as needed.
Check circuit breakers : Check the circuit breakers for any signs of corrosion or damage and clean or replace as needed.
Clean battery terminals : Clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion and ensure a good connection.
Check charging system : Check the charging system to ensure that it is functioning properly and that the battery is being charged.

By taking the time to check the electrical systems, you can help to ensure that they are ready for use when the spring sailing season begins. Additionally, by checking the systems and making any necessary repairs, you can help to prevent damage from the cold and other elements during storage.

Store the boat

Storing the boat is an important step in winterizing a sailboat, as it helps to protect it from the elements and prevent damage during the off-season. Here are some steps to follow when storing the boat:

Choose a storage location : Choose a storage location that is protected from the elements, such as a covered storage facility or a boat house.
Prepare the boat : Make sure that the boat is thoroughly cleaned and winterized, including removing sails and rigging, draining the water systems, and covering the boat.
Secure the boat : Secure the boat to the dock or storage cradle, making sure that it is properly supported and stabilized.
Cover the boat : Cover the boat with a protective cover to help protect it from dust and debris.
Check the boat regularly : Check the boat regularly throughout the winter to ensure that it is properly stored and protected.

By taking the time to properly store the boat, you can help to protect it from the elements and prevent damage during the off-season. Additionally, by checking the boat regularly, you can help to ensure that it is in good condition and ready for use when the spring sailing season begins.

What to avoid when winterizing a sailboat

When winterizing a sailboat, it’s important to avoid the following mistakes:

Ignoring the manual : Before winterizing your sailboat, be sure to read the manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as there may be specific steps you need to follow to properly winterize your specific model of boat.
Failing to drain water systems : Failing to drain all water systems, such as the freshwater tank, toilet, and sink, can result in water damage and the growth of mold and mildew.
Leaving fuel in the tank : Leaving fuel in the tank over the winter can cause the fuel to break down and become stale, clogging the engine and fuel system.
Not stabilizing fuel: If fuel is left in the tank, it’s important to use a fuel stabilizer to help prevent fuel breakdown.
Not removing the battery : Failing to remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place can result in battery damage and reduced performance.
Skipping the oil change : An oil change before winter storage can help prevent engine damage and improve engine performance when the boat is re-launched.
Failing to cover the boat : Failing to cover the boat or store it in a protected area can result in wind, rain, sun, and salt damage to the boat’s covers and canvas.
Neglecting to check ropes and lines: Ropes and lines should be removed or properly stored over the winter, as they can become stretched or frayed if left in place.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your sailboat is properly winterized and ready for safe and reliable use in the coming boating season.

Consequences of not winterizing a sailboat

Not winterizing a sailboat can result in several consequences, including:

Water damage: If water is allowed to sit in the boat over the winter, it can cause damage to the boat’s structure and components, such as the floor, hull, and deck.
Engine damage: If the engine is not winterized, it can become damaged by freezing temperatures, which can cause the engine to seize up or crack.
Mold and mildew growth: If the boat is not properly ventilated over the winter, mold and mildew can grow, causing unpleasant odors and potentially damaging the boat’s interior.
Battery damage: If the battery is not removed and stored in a warm, dry place, it can become damaged or lose its ability to hold a charge.
Deterioration of boat covers and canvas: If the boat is not covered or stored in a protected area, the boat’s covers and canvas can become worn or damaged from exposure to wind, rain, and sun.
Deterioration of ropes and lines: If ropes and lines are not removed or properly stored, they can become stretched or frayed, reducing their strength and lifespan.
Costly repairs: If the boat is not winterized, the cost of repairs in the spring can be substantial, as multiple components may need to be repaired or replaced.

In order to prevent these consequences, it’s important to winterize your sailboat properly and follow a comprehensive winterization checklist.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Boat Winterizing a Boat

How long does it take to winterize a boat.

The amount of time it takes to winterize a boat depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the boat and the experience of the person performing the task. Generally, it can take anywhere from several hours to a full day or more to properly winterize a boat.

Can you start a winterized boat ?

Starting a winterized boat can be challenging, as the winterization process typically involves draining fluids, removing batteries, and taking other measures to protect the boat during storage. Before attempting to start a winterized boat, it’s important to reverse the winterization process and perform any necessary maintenance and repairs.

Here are the steps to de-winterize a boat:

Check the boat’s battery and replace it if necessary.
Reinstall the spark plugs and tighten them to the proper torque specification.
Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel and add a fuel stabilizer to help keep the fuel from going bad during storage.
Check the fuel system for any leaks or clogs, and make any necessary repairs.
Check the oil level in the engine and add oil if necessary.
Check the belts and hoses for any cracks or leaks, and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Check the electrical system and make any necessary repairs.
Check the steering and throttle controls to make sure they’re working smoothly and that there are no kinks or binding in the cables. Lubricate the cables and control components as necessary.

Once the winterization process has been reversed, you should be able to start the boat. However, if you’re unsure about the condition of the boat or if you’re not familiar with the starting process, it’s best to have a professional service do the work.

How to Start a winterized boat motor

Charge the boat’s battery: Make sure the battery is fully charged, as starting a winterized motor can be difficult if the battery is weak.
Check the oil level: Make sure the oil level is at the proper level and that the oil is fresh and clean.
Check the fuel system: Make sure there is enough fuel in the tank, and that the fuel is fresh and free of any contaminants.
Check the spark plugs: Make sure the spark plugs are installed correctly and are in good condition.
Check the air intake system: Make sure the air intake system is free of any debris or blockages.
Turn the key: Turn the key to the “on” position and let the engine run for a few minutes to circulate oil and warm up the engine.
Prime the fuel system: If the boat has a primer bulb, press the primer bulb several times to prime the fuel system.
Start the engine: Turn the key to the “start” position and engage the starter. If the engine doesn’t start, wait a few seconds and try again. Repeat this process until the engine starts.

Note: The starting process for a winterized boat motor can be challenging, and may require several attempts to get the engine started. If you’re unsure about the condition of the boat or if you’re not familiar with the starting process, it’s best to have a professional service do the work.

It is important to follow these steps to properly winterize a sailboat and ensure that it is ready for use when the spring sailing season begins.

Jennifer Wilson

Jennifer Wilson is a seasoned sailor and travel writer, with over 15 years of experience navigating the world's seas. With a passion for adventure and a love for the open water, Jennifer has sailed across countless destinations and shares her knowledge on Sailingbetter.com. Her writing showcases her unique perspective on sailing and her talent for capturing the essence of each new place she visits. When she's not out on the water, Jennifer calls New York home and uses her knowledge and experience to inspire others to pursue their own sailing dreams. Join her as she continues to explore the world and share her stories of discovery and adventure.

Winterization

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← How-To DIY

It’s absolutely critical to properly winterize your boat to avoid damage, no matter whether it stays in the water or spends time on the hard. Follow our time-tested boat winterization advice and tips to ensure your boat comes through the winter safely and you’re ready to get back on the water as soon as possible come spring .

What You Need To Know About Boat Covers For Winter Storage

Debating whether to use a reusable cover instead of shrinkwrapping this winter? We put a number of common boat storage covers to the test.

Do I Really Need To Winterize?

If you look at the most recent GEICO | BoatUS Marine Insurance winterizing claims analysis over the last 10 years, the answer is a resounding 'yes'.

Winterizing Resources

There's work to do to ensure your boat makes it safely through the winter. Here's a comprehensive list of articles, checklists, and videos to ensure you don’t forget any important steps.

Avoid These 8 Boat Winterizing Mistakes

We all know we have to winterize the engine. But what else can go wrong? Read how to avoid the most common winterizing mishaps.

E-10 In Winter

For better or for worse, a shotgun wedding took place this past spring between boat owners and ethanol-enhanced gasoline.

Getting Your Boat Through A Storm

Important work must be done when severe winter weather approaches. Here are action items to boost your boat's chances of coming through unscathed.

Preventing Mold And Mildew

Storing a boat out of the water in the winter won't keep mold and mildew at bay. Mold spreads by forming spores, and the key is to prevent the grow.

Is Your Boat Ready For Winter?

What you need to consider before putting your boat to bed for its long winter's nap.

Boat Winterizing Basics

Unless you're in the sunny South or Hawaii, you'll almost certainly have to do at least some winterizing.

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Paddle Board

How to Winterize a Boat: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Are you a boating enthusiast living in colder parts of the country like the northeastern states of Maine and Massachusetts or the northwestern states of Oregon and Washington? If so, you’re going to have to winterize your boat against the effects of the cold weather on the vessel.

Preparing your boat for the winter and finding safe storage are critical tasks involved with boat ownership. This guide gives you everything you need to know about winterizing your boat as the temperatures drop.

How to Winterize Your Boat

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of winterizing, here’s a quick checklist of the tasks involved with the general winterization of freshwater and saltwater boats.

Drain and remove all the water from the engine.
Apply corrosion protective chemicals and treatments to the engine to prevent rust.
Consult the owner’s manual for instructions.
Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the engine to get everything circulating in the fuel system.
Change the fuel filters and fuel/water separators in the motor.
Drain the fresh water plumbing system on the boat.
Add antifreeze to the plumbing system.
Ensure you remove all the water from raw water washdowns, bilge pumps, livewells, and others.
Remove the drain plugs.
Cover the boat or send it to winter storage for the season.

Many boat owners choose to leave their boats in the water during the winter. However, it’s the water that poses the biggest threat to your boat’s structural integrity and condition during the winter season.

Freeze damage is a big problem, and water on and in the boat promotes mildew and mold growth and furthers corrosion. Considering all these issues, it’s a much better idea to leave your boat in dry winter storage. You’ll improve the service life and condition of your boat, and you’ll reduce the maintenance requirements.

Winterizing the Boat Motor

The motor is probably the most vulnerable part of the boat o the change in seasons. When the temperatures drop, water in the engine can freeze and expand, causing huge problems and expensive repair bills.

Here’s a quick checklist you can apply to winterize inboard, outboard, and stern-drive engines.

Add gas stabilizer to the system and run the engine.
Check the wiring, plugs, cap, and rotor.
Check the belts and adjust the tension.
Check hoses and clean the fuel screens.
Replace fuel and oil filters.
Check the throttle cables and throttle settings.
Lube the throttle cables and linkages.
Flush the cooling system.
Drain the manifold, block, coolers, and circulating pump.
Add antifreeze to the manifold, block, and circulating pump.
Change the gear lube and oil.
Check the gimbal bearing.
Grease all gimbals and u-joints.
Lube the engine coupler splines.
Check and replace worn sacrificial anodes.
Check the fog engine.
Check the power steering and trim fluids.
Touch up any scratches and nicks in the paintwork.
Check the propeller and hub.
Replace the water pump impeller.
Treat electricals with moisture-repellent.
Treat engine with anticorrosion.
Check the fuel bulb and line.

Now that you know the general guidelines for winterizing motors let’s drill down into the specifics for each model.

Winterizing Outboard Engines

The outboard engine drains the cooling system of all water when you tilt it in the downwards position. So, tilt the engine down all the way and leave it there to drain all the fluid and prevent freezing. Cover it when you finish winterizing the motor, and make sure there is no condensation under the cover where mold can grow.

Modern outboard motors have an auto-fogging setting that runs through the system using specialized fluids to protect the engine for the winter. Some models even have a dedicated “winterize” setting for the process.

Each engine manufacturer’s method is slightly different, so consult your owner’s manual or ask the dealer about the right way to winterize your motor. You’ll also find plenty of information for winterizing engines in online forums.

Winterizing Inboard Engines

If you’re winterizing an inboard engine, start with opening petcocks and removing drain plugs. Run antifreeze through the system to protect against freezing conditions. If you’re leaving the boat in the water for the winter, you’ll need to run the antifreeze through the system by closing the intake seacock and removing the intake hose.

Bring the engine up to operating temperature and submerge the hose in a bucket of antifreeze and run the motor until you see the antifreeze coming out of the exhaust port. Inboards also require a fogging process, and many models have the same fogging settings we discussed with outboard motors.

Winterizing the Engines Fuel System

The engine is important for winterizing, as are the fuel lines. The last thing you need is fuel lines splitting in the cold, dropping fuel all over the storage area – that’s a fire hazard and an expensive repair. You could also end up damaging the fuel pump and other parts of the motor.

Add fuel stabilizer to the tank and run it through the motor. Change the fuel filters and replace the fuel/water separator; we recommend replacing it rather than reusing it.

Winterizing Your Boats Plumbing System

With the engine and fuel system out of the way, it’s time to turn your attention to winterizing the plumbing on your boat. If you have freshwater systems like tanks, sinks, and heads, you’ll need to drain them and run antifreeze through the system.

Open all faucets and allow them to run until the tank is dry. Close the taps and add antifreeze to your freshwater tank. Open the faucet farthest from the tank and wait for the antifreeze to come out of the faucet before closing it off again.

Repeat this process through the rest of the faucets in the system. If you have a hot water heater, run the hot faucets to ensure antifreeze gets to the heater.

Pump out the holding tanks and add antifreeze through the head on the boat. If the boat has a portable MSD, remove and empty it to prevent a nasty surprise the following spring.

Can I Winterize My Boat Myself?

If you have basic handy skills and time, you can always take on winterizing your boat yourself.

DIY winterization can save you some money on the annual costs of boat ownership. The key to winterizing your boat yourself is to have a plan and take your time working through the procedure to ensure the success of every step.

What Is the Cost of DIY Boat Winterizing?

You can find all the tools and sundries you need to winterize your boat online. Many of the tools are affordable, and they’ll last you a lifetime. Pick up a flushing kit and a can of fogging oil to protect the valves, pistons, and cylinders in the engine.

Get some fuel stabilizer; we recommend the STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer on Amazon and pick up some high-quality oil for the oil change. You’ll need a decent amount of antifreeze for the process, and don’t forget about the fuel and oil filters.

The Final Cost of DIY Winterizing Your Boat

If we add up the costs of the parts and tools you need for winterizing your boat yourself, you’re looking at around $300. The first time you try to winterize the boat, expect it to take two to three hours.

With the right experience and practice, you can complete the tasks involved with winterizing your boat in around an hour. Make sure you review the instructions for winterization in the owner’s manual and follow the guide in a systematic, step-by-step process to succeed with the tasks.

Using Professionals to Winterize Your Boat

While we estimate the average cost of winterizing a boat at around $300, it could be more or less than this figure, depending on the boat’s make, model, and size. However, you can expect to pay significantly more to have a professional handle the job for you.

However, some people don’t have the skills or the time to winterize their boats themselves. If that’s the case, you have three options for completing the winterizing tasks before the bad weather sets in for the season.

Using the Marina to Winterize Your Boat

If you’re planning on leaving your boat in the water for the winter, speak to your marina about their winterizing services. Most marinas that offer a decent range of utilities and amenities will include boat servicing and winterization for people using the marina.

Most marinas charge around $500 to winterize a boat for the season, and that usually includes the shrink-wrapping of the vessel and the de-winterizing tasks involved with getting the boat back in shape the following spring.

Using a Mechanic to Winterize Your Boat

If you don’t keep the boat in a marina, you always have the option of hiring a mechanic to service and winterize the engine before you send the boat to storage.

A good mechanic can charge anywhere up to $400 to winterize the boat. It’s around the same price as doing it yourself because the mechanic gets a discount on the parts and sundries from their suppliers. Some mechanics may also charge you a call-out fee.

Using a Boat Shop to Winterize Your Boat

Your third choice for winterizing your boat is to use a professional boat shop to handle everything for you.

These services are usually full-house, and you just tell them where to collect your boat. They pull it from the water, service and winterize it, and send it to dry storage for the season. They also deliver it back to the water at the end of the season.

Using a professional boat service to handle winterizing the vessel can cost you anywhere from $300 to $600, depending on the services you request from the shop.

Hacks for Easy and Affordable Boat Winterizing

Winterizing your boat isn’t horribly expensive, but if you’re on a tight budget, every penny helps, especially around the holidays. Fortunately, we discovered a few clever hacks for reducing the servicing and winterizing costs and improving your results with the process.

When completing oil changes, make sure you bring the engine up to temperature before draining and replacing the oil. This process helps with the easy draining of the oil, and it also helps the new oil get at all the engine components before storage.

Don’t let the marketing fool you – it’s perfectly fine to use automotive antifreeze for your boat, and it’s less expensive than the marine version, saving you a few dollars. We recommend going with RV antifreeze concentrate for the most affordable option.

Buy a custom fabric cover for the boat. This strategy saves you on the annual costs of shrink wrap and reduces plastic waste going into the environment from storing your boat.

Disconnect and remove the batteries from the system. Keeping the batteries connected drains them and reduces the recharging time and battery life of the unit.

Wrapping Up – Storing Your Boat for the Winter

Let’s wrap up this guide for winterizing your boat with the duties you need to complete before putting your boat into storage for the season.

Out-of-Water Storage

Pressure wash the hull, clean any barnacles off the shafts and props, struts, rudders, and trim tabs.
Clean the strainers and thru-hulls.
Open seacocks and drain any water.
Check for blisters on the hull and cracks that you need to bring to the service manager’s attention.
Give the hull a wax job.
Remove the batteries into dry storage.

In-Water Storage

Close the seacocks, check the rudder shafts and the stuffing boxes for any leaks. Tighten and repack as required.
Check the battery charge, clean the terminals, and add distilled water to top off levels.
Check the bilge pumps and ensure the float switches activate the pumps properly.
Give every area of the boat a check for mildew, mold, and pest infestations.
If you’re using a mooring area that freezes, suspend water agitators to prevent your vessel from getting iced in.

We recommend removing the boat from the water and placing it in dry storage for the winter for the best results. It might add more to the costs of winterizing the boat, but it’s worth it if you want to extend the vessel’s service life.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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Winterizing Your Boat: Step-by-Step Guide

In many areas of the country, you’ll want to winterize a boat before freezing temperatures set in. Deciding on an option for boat storage is only the first step in preparing your pride and joy for its winter slumber. Even if you use your boat all winter long—a practice we most certainly endorse—there are some systems and items aboard that need some extra attention.

How to Winterize a Boat

Start by prepping your engine; ensure all water has been drained and removed.
Apply corrosion protection to your engine.
Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions, and complete fogging, if needed.
Add a fuel-stabilizing additive to your fuel system; then run the engine.
Change your engine’s fuel filters and any fuel/water separators in the system.
Drain your boat's freshwater plumbing systems (sinks, tanks, and heads).
Add antifreeze to your plumbing systems.
Ensure water is removed from all additional systems (raw water washdowns, livewells, bilge pump, etc.).
Remove drain plugs.
Cover your boat or place it into winter storage.

Ironically, it’s water that poses the most danger to your boat during the off-season. Freeze-damage is the biggest potential problem, but water in and on your boat can also promote winter-time mold and mildew growth, and corrosion. So as you consider all of these tasks, remember that your main goal is to keep out water and moisture to the greatest extent possible.

Be sure to concentrate on these systems during the winterization process:

Fuel systems
Plumbing systems
All other systems that can hold water

Winterization Guide - Specific Engine Types & Other Systems

How to winterize an outboard engine.

Outboard engines are designed to drain all the water from their cooling systems completely, when tilted in the down position. So lesson number-one is to tilt the engine down all the way, and leave it there. Covering it is a good idea, but make sure there’s enough ventilation that condensation doesn’t form.

Aside from eliminating H2O from the equation, you’ll want to give the engine’s internals some protection from corrosion as it sits.
Historically, with carbureted outboards and old-tech two-strokes this meant running fogging oil through the engine. Most modern outboards, however, are “fogged” via a much easier process.
Some manufacturers offer products that can be mixed into a remote fuel can of gasoline, and run through the engine to give it a layer of protection. And some other modern outboards control the process electronically—you simply navigate to a “winterize” mode in the control system, and press the button.
Each manufacturer’s method is a bit different (and sometimes different models in their line require different steps) so this is the time to consult your owner’s manual.

Many people feel that the very best way to winterize an outboard is simply to use it, and they have a point. It’s not low temperatures that cause issues with outboards, but long periods of inaction. If you live in an area where you can run the engine every few weeks (long enough to allow it to reach normal operating temperature), additional winterization steps usually aren’t necessary.

One final tip: now’s the best time to change your lower unit and/or powerhead oil, visually inspect it to be sure there hasn’t been any water intrusion, and put the boat to bed with fresh fluids for the winter.

How to Winterize a Stern Drive

Stern drives can be a bit more complex than outboards to winterize because you have to worry about getting water out of the engine’s block as well as the drive unit, and may need to run antifreeze through the drive and engine. Again, there are differences between the different makes and models so you’ll want to consult your owner’s manual.

In most cases you’ll also need to remove block plugs (which allows water to drain from the engine and also helps remove sediments and scale that can gather inside).
On top of that, you’ll want to make a thorough inspection of exposed hoses, clamps, the bellows, and other parts that may show wear after a long season of use.
Stern drives will also need that fogging treatment. And remember to bring the engine up to operating temperature before fogging it, to “cook” out any moisture that may remain in the engine.
What about those ever-important oil changes? Yes, this is the time to take that step with a stern drive, too.

How to Winterize an Inboard Engine

Inboards require a treatment similar to that of stern-drives, though you can eliminate the drive system from the equation. The engine can be drained by opening petcocks or removing plugs, or you can run antifreeze through the system (which is usually the preferred method).

In some cases, however, inboard boats remain in the water for the winter. In this case, in order to run antifreeze through the system you’ll need to close the intake seacock and remove the intake hose from it.
Then you’ll want to submerge the end of the hose in a bucket of (environmentally safe) antifreeze and run the engine until the antifreeze comes out the exhaust ports.
Be sure to bring the engine up to operating temperature before running antifreeze through, because otherwise the thermostat will block the flow to some cooling passages until the engine is up to operating temperature.
As with other engines: inboards also need a dose of fogging before a winter lay-up, this is the ideal time for an oil change, and a visual inspection should be made to identify any pieces or parts that may be in need to replacement.

How to Winterize the Fuel System

No matter what sort of boat you have, all gasoline fuel systems will need some individual attention.

First and most important: dose the fuel tanks with a quality fuel-stabilizing additive.
Winterizing with ethanol blended fuel in your tanks can be disastrous otherwise, as the fuel can undergo phase separation. Long story short, when you go to fire up your boat next spring, it will have water-saturated fuel and you’ll have big problems.
After putting in the additive, make sure to run the engines so treated fuel makes its way through the entire system.

With ethanol woes (hopefully) put to rest, you’ll also need to change your engine’s fuel filters and any fuel/water separators in the system. The key word here is “change.” Sometimes people remove the fuel/water separator, invert it to pour the water out, and then re-use it. This is a big mistake—water and debris can get into the wrong side of the filter when you pour it out and then get drawn into the system, and damage to the filter’s internal components can occur. So always replace the canister entirely.

How to Winterize a Boat’s Plumbing System

With the power system taken care of, many boat owners will now need to turn their attention to plumbing systems.

Any freshwater system, including sinks, tanks, and heads need to be completely drained and then have non-toxic antifreeze run through.
In most cases this means opening all faucets and allowing them to run until the freshwater tank is dry. Then close them back up, and add the antifreeze to the tank.
Next, open the faucet physically farthest from the tank, wait for antifreeze to come out, then close it up again. Go to the next-farthest one and repeat the process, until all have antifreeze coming through.

If your boat has a hot water heater, be sure to run both hot and cold faucets to make sure antifreeze has worked its way through the heater, too. In some cases, you may be able to bypass the hot water heater and drain it separately.

You’ll also want to pump out holding tanks and pump antifreeze through the head(s) on your boat. And if your boat has a portable MSD, be sure to remove and empty it—forget about this step, and you could have a very smelly surprise waiting for you next spring!

Bilge, Raw Water Washdowns, Livewells, Interior and More

Remember that any piece, part, or pump that holds water also needs to be drained down for the winter. Be sure to run things like raw water washdowns and livewell pumps until they’re dry. If you still hear gurgling and you know there’s water that can’t be drained out, give them a dose of antifreeze, too.

Finally, don’t forget about your boat’s bilges. Drain plugs should be removed (assuming the boat’s on dry land, of course), and you should take a peek belowdecks to make sure the boat’s positioned to drain properly and thoroughly. Now, you’re ready to cover the boat… and start looking forward to the day when you can prepare for the spring boating season and get back out there on the water.

Out of Water Storage

Pressure wash hull, clean barnacles off props and shafts, rudders, struts and trim tabs.
Clean all thru-hulls and strainers.
Open seacocks to allow any water to drain.
Check the hull for blisters and if you find any that should be attended make a note to tell your service manager.
Now is a great time to give the hull a good wax job.
Be sure the batteries are fully charged and switches are turned off.

In Water Storage

Close all seacocks and check rudder shafts and stuffing boxes for leaks, tighten or repack as necessary.
Check your battery to make sure it is fully charged, clean terminals, add water if necessary and make sure your charging system is working.
Check bilge pumps to ensure they are working and that float switches properly activate the pumps and that they are not hindered by debris.
Monitor your boat regularly to avoid leaks, or animal infestations.
If your mooring area is likely to freeze be sure to suspend water agitators below it to bring warmer water to the surface so its not iced in.

By following some of the above suggestions, and suggestions given from the links provided, you should be in good shape for the winter. Do not, however, neglect to consult your owner's manuals for manufacturer's recommendations on winterizing your boat and other systems. If you have not done a winterization job before, or don't have an experienced friend to rely on, seek out a professional to do the job for you.

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How to Winterize a Boat: Steps, Checklist and Costs

18th oct 2023 by lenny rudow.

As summer draws to a close many boat owners will be asking themselves: do I need to winterize my boat? This is an important question to be asking, because freeze-damage can cause extensive and even catastrophic problems. It can burst pipes in plumbing systems, crack engine parts, and split apart fiberglass. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place — we’ll lay out the procedures you need to follow and run through a comprehensive winterize boat checklist, so you can rest easy after storing your boat for the season.

Do I Need to Winterize My Boat?

If you live in an area where temperatures may drop below freezing the answer is yes. It’s critical you winterize a boat even if you live in an area with mild winters where sub-freezing temperatures are the exception rather than the norm. That said, a lot depends on the nature of your boat. For small boats that are very simple and have few systems, winterizing it can mean putting on a cover and taking care of the motor. For big luxury center console boats over 40 feet , on the other hand, you’ll have a large number of tanks, pumps, and pipes to deal with. So recognize that while all boat owners need to winterize a boat if they live in a climate that’s not tropical, just what it means to do so can be very different from one boat to another.

Some boaters wait until the last minute to winterize – and some wait just a bit too long.

When Should I Winterize My Boat?

Most boaters winterize their boat when they believe the last trip of the season is behind them. However, some people who live in areas with a mild climate will wait to see if and when freezing weather comes along, so they can get in another adventure or two should the weather remain nicer than expected. Either way, the important thing is to pay attention to the forecast and if there’s a freeze being predicted, have the boat winterized before it happens.

Steps to Winterize a Boat

Remember, every boat is different and the winterization process can vary quite a bit from one to another. That said, here are the critical steps:

Winterize the engine(s)

Winterize the plumbing systems.

Winterize any pumps or compartments that may hold water

Remove the batteries

Treat the fuel, cover the boat.

This process is a bit different depending on what type of power system your boat has. It can also differ depending on the engine’s manufacturer and model. It’s important enough that we’ve dedicated an entire section to this process, so see How to Winterize a Boat Motor, below. Also check out How to Winterize a Boat Motor a Step By Step Guide .

Winterizing the plumbing system in a boat is similar to winterizing one in a summer home. You’ll need to drain the water out of the system, then add non-toxic antifreeze. Start by opening the faucet farthest from the water tank and let it run until completely drained. Then open each in turn working your way back towards the tank. When the system has run dry, add antifreeze to the tank and run it through the system, shutting off the faucets only after antifreeze has begun coming out. If your boat has a hot water heater, be sure to turn it off before draining the tanks down.

You’ll also need to pump out the boat’s holding tank, then add some antifreeze to be sure any liquid left in the bottom doesn’t freeze. Then be sure to flush the head until antifreeze runs through the lines. If your boat has a self-contained head (a portable marine sanitation device, or MSD), remove it from the boat and properly dispose of any waste in its holding tank, then drain the freshwater reservoir.

Winterize pumps or compartments that may hold water

Livewell pumps, washdown pumps, fishbox macerators, and any other accessories that may have water in their lines or in the pump itself need to be drained and given a dose of antifreeze. In cases where a raw water intake feeds the system, you can remove the intake line at the seacock, submerge it into a five-gallon bucket full of antifreeze, and activate the pump to get the liquid running through. If the pump can’t pull a prime, hold the end of the intake up higher than the pump and pour in some antifreeze to get it started.

Drains should also be checked, as some of their lines could be holding water. These can be blown out with compressed air, then you can pour antifreeze directly into the drain.

Compartments that hold water, like livewells, must be fully drained and the pumps and lines given a dose of antifreeze.

Batteries should be disconnected and removed from the boat. Put them on a trickle-charger or battery maintainer for the off-season. This is also a good time to clean up any dirty or corroded connections.

Fill the boat’s fuel tanks to about 90 percent, to prevent the condensation from forming while allowing enough room for expansion without fuel coming out through the vent. Since the boat will likely be sitting for an extended period of time, you’ll also want to add fuel stabilizer to the tank. This is especially important if your boat is gas-powered and there’s ethanol in the fuel. Note: do this before winterizing the engines, so the stabilized fuel is run through the entire fuel system as well as being in the tank itself.

Your main mission here is to keep out water, so it doesn’t creep into compartments, cracks, and crevices where it can cause freeze damage. A good cover will also keep out the dirt and leaves. But you need to make sure it can vent properly or mold and mildew will form. Standard hardware-store tarps are terrible for this use — it’s best to have a custom canvass cover made for your boat, or have the boat shrink-wrapped by a professional who knows where to add vents and how many to use.

Covers should fit tightly and be secured to prevent flapping in the wind.

How Much Does it Cost to Winterize a Boat

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Obviously, size matters. But it also depends on the complexity of your boat’s systems and whether you pay a professional to do the job or you spend your own time on it. We can, however, offer a few case-studies to help you get some idea of the burden to bear in case you’re scratching your head, asking yourself “how much does it cost to winterize a boat?”

With a small skiff with no additional systems other than an outboard motor, you need only pay for motor oil, filters, and a cover. Figure on spending a few hundred dollars, maybe a bit more if you buy a custom cover (but then you won’t have to pay for shrink-wrapping in the future). On a midsized boat like a 28-foot pocket cruiser, you’re likely to spend $1,000 or so between supplies and a shrink-wrap job, and custom covers can cost several thousand dollars. Pay to have it done by a pro, and cost will climb by 50 or so percent. On larger boats and yachts the job is generally left to professionals and will run into the thousands of dollars.

How Long Does it Take to Winterize a Boat

Again, this all depends on the size and nature of the vessel. That little skiff won’t take more than a few hours, but the midsized boat will require a full day’s work. And the bigger the boat is the more work that’s involved, so in some cases the process can take several days.

How to Winterize a Boat Motor

This part of the job is so important that if there are any doubts in your mind as to whether you can handle it or not, you should have a professional do the job. That said, there’s a huge difference in complexity between outboard motors and inboards.

How to winterize an outboard motor

Start the process by giving the engine a thorough freshwater flush. Outboard motors are designed to drain completely when tilted down, so you don’t have to worry about the cooling system nor antifreeze. Changing the oil and oil filter, however, is critical. Oil builds up acids over time and you don’t want used oil sitting in the lower unit or the powerhead for months on end. Note: before changing the powerhead oil be sure to run the engine up to operating temperature.

The oil changing process will differ a bit from one outboard to the next so refer to your owner’s manual to get the specifics. That said, whenever you perform an oil change in an outboard be sure to visually inspect the old oil and look for a milky white color. If you see it that means there’s water in the oil, and you have an issue that needs professional attention.

If your outboard will sit for more than a month without use, it also needs to be fogged. The process differs depending on your fuel delivery system, and may include spraying fogging fluid into the carburetor as the engine runs, or may require adding fluid to a remote fuel tank then running it through the EFI system. This is another stage where it’s important to check your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific make and model.

Also remember to leave the engine in the tilted-down position, and cover it to prevent weathering. Be sure to use a cover that breathes, and make sure it’s secure and doesn’t flap in the wind or it could wear away that pretty finish.

How to winterize an inboard motor

With inboards you still need to do an oil change, but you also have a cooling system that needs to be winterized. This process involves finding drain plugs, adding antifreeze, and running it through the system, and will vary quite a bit from one motor to the next. Again, you’ll need to refer to your owner’s manual and if you find anything doubtful or confusing, farm this job out to a pro.

When the snow starts falling, boats that are properly winterized will be fine but those that aren’t may suffer from all sorts of damage.

Winterize a Boat Checklist

Okay: we’ve covered all the bases for how to winterize a boat. You’ve asked how long does it take to winterize a boat, considered the cost to winterize a boat, and thought about when to winterize your boat. Now, let’s boil the process down to a handy winterize a boat checklist.

Winterize the engine(s), using the owner’s manual as a reference or paying a professional who’s familiar with your specific power system and its needs.
Oil and filters have been changed
Old oil has been visually inspected
Outboards are tilted down and covered
Inboard cooling system(s) have been winterized
Engine has been fogged as per manufacturer’s instructions

Plumbing System

Freshwater systems including tanks and lines have been drained
Freshwater systems including tanks and lines have received antifreeze
Portable heads have been removed and drained
The head and/or waste tank has been drained
The head and/or waste tank has received antifreeze

Pumps or Compartments

Any and all pumps and their lines have been drained
Any and all pumps have and received antifreeze
Any compartments with drains have been blown out and received antifreeze
Remove them from the boat
Put the batteries on a trickle charger
Clean any dirty or corroded terminals
Fuel tanks have been filled to approximately 90 percent
Fuel tank has been treated with a fuel stabilizer
Treated fuel has been run through the system
The boat has been covered or shrink-wrapped
Proper ventilation has been ensured
The cover is secure and won’t flap or saw back and forth in the wind

Fail to assure proper ventilation, and mold and mildew will set in. This leaning post cushion was ruined, as a result.

Winterizing a boat may seem like a complex process, but in truth it’s only as complex — or as simple — as the boat and its systems are. But we do have one final word of advice: regardless of what size or type of boat you’re winterizing it’s wise to take the time to give it a thorough cleaning and a thick coat of protective paste wax before you put it away for the winter (see 3 Simple Ways to Keep Your Boat Looking Good as New ). That way, not only will your boat be ready for action as soon as spring returns, it will look sharp, too.

Written By: Lenny Rudow

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites. Rudow lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and is currently Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk ; he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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How to Winterize a Boat: A Comprehensive Guide for Boat Owners

For some, the boating season may be winding down, and winterizing your boat is on your mind. For the more fortunate year-round boaters, a mid-season checkup for your boat should certainly be on the list.

This blog is a step-by-step guide on winterizing a boat, the needed tools, and products, as well as mid-season maintenance tips.

What Do You Need to Winterize a Boat?

Here are the essential tools and products a boat owner may need for winterization:

Fogging oil
Fuel stabilizer
Lower-unit lube and drain plug gaskets
Oil suction pump
Lower-unit lube injection pump

How to Winterize a Boat – Important Steps to Take

Before undertaking any DIY winterization process, review and understand your manufacturer’s guides to ensure you are taking the correct steps for your specific boat and engine(s) .

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to winterize your gasoline outboard engine-powered boat in preparation for winter.

1. Flush and Drain Water Lines

Water expands under extremely low winter temperatures causing damage. Be sure to drain water from the engine cooling systems, plumbing system, or any other system holding water. Flush the engine using water muffs until the engine reaches the optimum operating temperature.

2. Replace Engine Oil and Fluids

Different engines require different materials and methods to be fully winterized. Regardless, it’s essential to check your operator’s manual for the requirements.

Change all fluids and filters as required. Ensure proper levels, including the oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit fluid, and outdrive oil.
Inspect the fuel lines for any cracking and stiffness, and replace any line showing signs of wear and tear.
Grease all the moving parts.

3. Stabilize Fuel

Fuel deteriorates in a short lifespan and causes the build-up of varnish and gum in the engine, resulting in hard starts, poor performance and reduced engine life.

Top up the fuel tank with fresh fuel.
Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the build-up of varnish in the fuel lines, fuel injector, or carburetor.
Ensure you run stabilized fuel through your engine.

4. Protect Internal Engine Components

During storage, engine oil drains away, potentially exposing internal engine components to scuffing and corrosion.

Use a fogging spray that coats internal engine components with a layer of anti-corrosive compound.

5. Remove Valuables

Remove any valuables and expensive electronics for safe storage.

Remember to insure your boat even if it will be out of action.

6. Clean and Wax

Use a pressure washer as well as an acid-based hull or bottom cleaner if needed to remove fouling. It ensures you will have a clean surface during spring repainting.
Thoroughly clean the cabin, heads, kitchen, and helm by scrubbing the topsides using a non-skid deck cleaner to remove dirt from the crevices. Then, clean all teak, plastic, glass, vinyl, and canvas.
Apply a fresh coat of waterproofing to the canvas and wax the topsides of exposed fiberglass.

7. Safe Storage

After winterizing your boat, shrinkwrap it, use a canvas cover or place it in winter storage to shield it from the harsh weather as you wait for spring.

Mid-Season Maintenance Routine

If you are boating year-round, consider the following mid-season checkup tips. Be sure to review and understand your manufacturers’ guides to ensure you are taking the correct steps for your specific boat and engine(s).

Electrical Inspections

Check and confirm that the batteries are fully charged.
Clean the terminals and cable ends with a stiff wire brush and replace wing nuts with stainless steel lock nuts to prevent the cables from loosening up.
Battery cables must be secured appropriately to the battery posts, so ensure the cover caps are still in place.
Check all switches and knobs. Turn on lights, blow your horn, run the livewell, and wash down to ensure all controls are working.
Check helm and cabin switches. Additionally, if you have an automatic bilge, ensure the pump float is working, along with the controller for manual operation (typically located at the helm).

Mechanical Inspections

Before any regular maintenance routine, always refer to the manufacturer’s operational manual.

Check all engine fluid levels: oil, coolant, steering fluid, transmission/lower unit, and outdrive oil.
Turn the engine on and listen carefully for loose belts.
Double-check hose connections and ensure the steering wheel turns freely and smoothly in all directions.
Confirm your engine cut-off switch works by removing the lanyard to switch off the engine to prove the cut-off functionality, and then remove the key.
Double-check all your safety gear to confirm their validity and functionality. These should include VHF radio, flares, fire extinguishers, boot hooks, lines, as well as first aid kits.

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How To Know When to Winterize Your Boat

The question of how to know when to winterize your boat comes down to one thing: location, location, location! The best time to winterize your boat will vary according to where you are in the world, and it is also likely to vary from one year to the next.

How to know when to winterize your boat? You need to winterize your boat before temperatures drop below freezing. You can approximate when this will be by checking the local weather, as the exact timing will vary from year to year. Generally, if you live in a climate that has cold winters, you should consider winterizing your boat in the Autumn, around October or November at the latest, to avoid freeze-damage.

Read on for more signs that show it’s time to winterize your boat, as well as a rough guide to the right time to winterize for different regions. Hint: It might be earlier than you think.

The best time to winterize your boat depends on your location and climate, but generally it should be done before the first freeze of the season.
It is recommended to begin winterizing before temperatures go below freezing, which is 35 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius , and ideally before they dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 4 degrees Celsius .
Winterization involves draining the water systems, adding antifreeze to the engine and other systems, and covering the boat to protect it from the elements.

As a general rule, you should look to winterize your boat before the temperatures drop below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately -3 degrees Celsius . To be safe, it is best to start winterizing before temperatures drop below freezing point, 35 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius, and ideally, before they get below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 4 degrees Celsius.

While one night below freezing will not do your boat too much damage, if you have several cold nights in a row and the temperature does not get above freezing during the day, your boat is much more susceptible to freeze damage. This means it is best to exercise caution and winterize before it reaches this point.

Of course, every region is different and knowing when to winterize your boat will depend on location-specific information. Let’s take a look at some approximate timings for different regions around the world.

Region	Winterize?	Period
US - Northeast Coast	Yes	October - November
US - Northwest Coast	Yes	December
California / Florida	Sometimes	Depends
The UK	Yes	September
UK West Coast	Sometimes	December
Scotland	Yes	October - November
The Mediterranean	No	-
North Italy	Yes	November - December

In the US, the best time to winterize varies dramatically depending on which coast you’re on and how far north or south you are. The northeastern coast will generally get colder a lot faster than warmer areas, so you need to factor that into your winterizing plans. By December, you can expect to find temperatures low enough that winterizing is necessary on the East Coast. That being said, it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing in October and November too, so you should look to start winterizing in the autumn. You may find yourself starting before Thanksgiving and for some years, even as early as September.

If you’re based on the West Coast, you will have a lot more time to spare and can stretch out the season for a long time. Many boaters in California don’t bother winterizing at all. Despite this, it’s worth remembering that temperatures can still get below freezing in California, and freeze-related boat damage can be rife in the spring. The same goes for Florida boat owners. Just because you live in a warmer climate doesn’t mean you’re immune to freeze damage!

Further north on the West Coast, you will probably want to have your boat winterized by December in preparation for the colder weather to come, especially in January. Ultimately, you’ll need to keep an eye on the temperatures through the winter, but expect to get started around the end of the year.

Winterizing in the UK is also location-specific. As the UK benefits from varying climate regions, when you need to winterize your boat, it will depend heavily on where it is being stored. Some boat owners start preparing for winter as early as September to avoid any negative effects from a rapid temperature drop that could hit at any time.

On the other hand, many boat owners on the West Coast of England, for instance, sail all year round, not bothering to winterize at all. Most years, temperatures rarely drop below -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit), so people tend to take the risk. This comes down to your personal choice. However, the further north you go, the more at risk you are from freeze damage. In Scotland, winterizing tends to happen around October or November.

The Mediterranean

Generally, winterizing is not such a pressing matter if your boat is in the Med. Temperatures rarely dip below freezing in popular winter storage spots like Greece, Turkey, and Spain. One of the exceptions is northern Italy, where temperatures can drop below freezing in the winter months. In these instances, it’s a good idea to winterize your boat in November or December and wait until spring, when you’re out of the danger zone. Alternatively, you could sail down the coast and spend the winter in Sicily, where there’s no need to winterize!

When To Winterize Your Boat Motor Exactly?

Colder nights.

The conditions to look out for when deciding when to winterize your boat are evidence that the temperatures are getting lower. In temperate climates, you can tell that winter is approaching as the leaves change color and the nights get longer and colder, and you should feel a chill in the air. Generally, if you’re noticing the nights are getting significantly colder than in the summer and early autumn, it would be a good idea to start preparations to winterize your boat.

Frost on the ground

If you wake up to find a frost on the ground, that is a very strong indication that you need to winterize your boat as soon as possible. Don’t delay! Once you have nights where the temperature repeatedly drops below zero, you will need to winterize as soon as possible.

Similarly, if a storm is predicted, you need to take immediate action to avoid damage to your boat, including taking it out of the water if it isn’t already in dry storage. Regardless of your plans to winterize or not, it’d be wise to keep an eye on the forecast and get ready to act quickly if need be.

It is important to keep in mind that once you winterize your boat, you won’t be able to use it again, even if the weather becomes warmer a few weeks later. This means that you need to be certain that it’s the right time before starting the process of winterizing!

The exception is if you choose to store your boat in the water, in which case you can still use it during warmer spells. However, if you are living in a place where the temperature is known to drop below freezing occasionally, you should still take some precautions. This includes winterizing systems like the water holding tank, faucets, and showers if your boat has them. Don’t use them during the winter; it is a small sacrifice to avoid winterizing repeatedly.

Like with many things, the effects of climate change have made winterizing a bit less predictable . Exactly when to winterize your boat is now much more about guesswork and judging the conditions on the ground. The seasons are no longer as predictable as they were in the past, and weather conditions can vary widely from year to year.

In the UK, for instance, it is much harder to make a concrete prediction on how low the temperature will get and when, so it is best to exercise caution with your winterizing plans. If you hear word of a Beast from the East (as in 2018), winterize your boat without delay!

At What Temperature Will a Boat Engine Freeze?

Unless you live in a hot climate year-round, it is best to winterize your boat even if it will only be out of use for a few weeks . You can winterize your boat in less than an hour, and it will significantly reduce the chance that you have to cope with freeze-related damages next season.

The exact time for winterizing your boat will vary year on year and is dependent on factors including where you live, how your boat will be stored, and what the weather predictions are for the arrival of winter. Knowing when to winterize your boat involves using your senses - check for signs of the temperature dropping and look out for evidence of frost or freezing. These are the strongest indications that winter is coming!

William has written a detailed step-by-step winterizing guide . Go check that out if you want to learn exactly what you need to do to keep your boat in great condition.

Over here in Western Canada we enjoy a beautiful and considerably long summer, but still have to winterize our boats all the same, so that we can continue to spend the summers on the water! To join us; https://www.jonesboysboats.com/

You may also like, the complete checklist for winterizing your boat (free pdf).

More than twenty years ago, when I bought my first boat, I didn't have a clue about a lot of things. As the first sailing season was winding down, a friend asked me …

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Understanding Florida Fishing Seasons

Table of Contents

Last Updated on September 20, 2024 by Boatsetter Team

Let’s say for the sake of argument that you’re planning a big trip to Florida, you’re going to try some fishing, and you even have a Florida fishing boat rental lined up. If you’ve landed here on this page, there’s a very good chance that’s exactly the situation. And in all likelihood you’re doing some research right now to find out about the different Florida fishing seasons and how to be successful when you finally get there and head out onto the water. Fear not, dear angler: we’ll address each season one by one.

Summer Fishing in Florida

While the rest of the country is enjoying a taste of the sunshine Floridians get all year long, it can become overly hot this far south. In some parts of the state, this won’t be prime time for certain species, as some of the fish can get uncomfortably hot even beneath the water’s surface, and others migrate north. That said, there are still some excellent bites going off.

When deciding what you’ll target during the summer months, remember that most of the migratory species which have strong spring and/or fall runs will likely be tough or impossible to find. But Florida is a huge state, so this will vary from place to place. Take kingfish, for example. They can be caught year-round in the Keys, but peak action comes during the winter months. All the way up the coast in Jacksonville , on the other hand, the middle of the summer is generally the best time to target them. Each individual species is a bit different and you’ll have to research the habits of the specific one you hope to target, but remember that unlike many northern climates, the middle of the summer won’t necessarily be the very best time to target all the different fish swimming in these waters.

Fall Fishing in Florida

Most anglers would agree that generally speaking, fall is peak fishing time throughout the state. Some of the warmth-loving species will already have departed northern areas and some that thrive in cooler waters may not have made it back south as of yet, but this is the time when both will be transitioning and strong runs appear for multiple species in many places. Meanwhile, resident fish that don’t migrate will usually be feeding hard as the shifting temperatures trigger their urge to fatten up for winter.

While the specifics will vary from north to south and east coast to west coast, just about every portion of the state will have something special going on right about now. Snook will be slamming baits on the Gulf coast; tarpon will be biting in the Keys; flounder will be pushing through passes and inlets on both the Gulf and the Atlantic; redfish and speckled trout action will be peaking just about everywhere — the list goes on and on.

Winter Fishing in Florida

While anglers in northern climes worry about how to winterize a boat and fishing gear gets packed into closets and garages, in Florida many different bites are just beginning to crank up. Speckled trout are hitting over grass flats in southern areas and sailfish are gathering in big numbers as they work their way down the Atlantic coast. The critical factor to pay attention to, however, is the weather. While it may not be cold in most of Florida and it’s downright summerlike in its southernmost portions, cold fronts do sweep through. This is a mixed blessing, as they may trigger a strong bite, but they may also trigger strong winds. Timing your fishing around the weather patterns becomes critical, especially if you plan to fish in open waters from a boat.

Spring Fishing in Florida

Like fall, spring is a time of migration that can trigger epic angling action. Again, it will vary from area to area and species to species, but at certain times in certain places, spring will bring with it peak runs. Tarpon will mass along the Gulf Coast, and in some areas, massive schools of thousands of fish will sit right off the beaches. Cobia will head up the coast from their winter haunts, mutton snapper will aggregate as they prepare to spawn, and the flats will come alive with multiple species of gamefish. If there’s any season that rivals fall for its overall action it’s spring, so this is another awesome time for anglers to plan a visit.

Which season will be the best one for you to try fishing in Florida? That depends entirely upon which species you want to target and what style of fishing you prefer. Whatever gets you most excited, however, one thing’s for sure: every season of the year hold ample opportunity for we anglers in Florida.

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites ranging from BoatU.S. Magazine to BDOutdoors.com. Rudow is currently the Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk , he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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IMAGES

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How to Winterize A Sailboat
Winterizing a 130yr Old Sailboat!
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How to Winterize Your Sailboat Cheaper & Quicker
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VIDEO

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Tohatsu 6hp outboard final
Ep. 16 Engine Block Crack and Winterizing
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#PROTIPP Winterizing your boat
Marine Water Heater Winterization

COMMENTS

How to Winterize Your Sailboat
Step 1: Drain the Fuel. If You Have a Gasoline Engine. This process can go two different ways depending on whether your boat has a diesel engine or a gasoline engine. If your sailboat has a diesel engine, the process of preparing your fuel tank for the winter can be slightly more complicated.
How to Winterize Your Sailboat in 4-6 Hours
Removing sails and rigging. 1 - 2 hours. Securing the boat's interior/exterior. 1 - 2 hours. Handling the boat's electrical system. 30 minutes - 1 hour. Total estimated time. 4 - 6 hours. If you don't winterize your sailboat, the water inside the boat's systems can freeze and expand, causing pipes and hoses to burst.
How To Winterize a Boat: A Complete Guide
Other minor issues that come up when you winterize a boat; Above: Boats at a marina during the winter months. Photo by Julia Volk. Winterization procedures protect boat systems and gear from freeze damage. Winterizing also guards items such as batteries, inboard and outboard engines, and lower units and sterndrives from damage and wear that ...
The Complete Checklist for Winterizing Your Boat (Free PDF)
Winterizing your boat includes draining all water from the boat, adding antifreeze to the engine and plumbing systems, and removing all electronics and batteries. Fill up your fuel tanks and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading over the winter. Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the ...
How to Winterize Your Sailboat
Pump out the holding tank and then add fresh water to the bowl and flush several times. Close the water intake seacock, remove the hose, and pump the head full of anti-freeze, making sure some of the anti-freeze goes into the holding tank. Replace the hose, leaving the seacock closed. 9.
How to Winterize Your Sailboat
We clean and polish the stainless steel and bronze parts. General cleaning and polishing complete the winter maintenance of the boat, which is now ready to sail back into the sea safely. Drain the water from the freshwater system. Drain the hoses and the tank and then clean the tank. Leave it empty until next season.
Cheat Sheet on How to Winterize Your Boat
Hook "ear muffs" and a garden hose to the engine, start it, and then spray the fogging-solution lubricant directly into the air intake until it's gone. If you don't fog the engine cylinders, corrosion can form inside the engine, covering the cylinders, pistons and rings with a patina of abrasive crud. Cost if you do: $5 to $15.
BoatUS Boater's Guide to Winterizing
THE BOATER'S GUIDE TO. WINTERIZING. in the side of the engine block or what looks like chocolate milk appears on the dipstick. Repairing freeze damage takes time and all too often involves a complete engine replacement. By the time the boat is in working order, a good part of the boating season will have been lost.
How to Winterize a Boat: An Expert Guide
Here are the key parts to focus on and our best tips for how to winterize a boat the right way: 1. Engine and Cooling System. Start by draining any water from the engine. This will prevent freezing and cracking. Next, fill the system with antifreeze designed for marine engines.
Winterizing Your Boat: Getting Ready For the Winter
When you're considering winterizing your sailboat, there are four crucial factors to consider: 1) water expands when it freezes, 2) checklists are plentiful and free, 3) inexpensive tarps shred in winter storms easily, 4) winter is closer than you think. Consider the following as old man winter approaches the Chesapeake Bay :
How to Winterize Your Sailboat Cheaper & Quicker
Winterizing your sailboat takes anywhere from a few hours to a full day. It can also be costly due to its size and the added components of the boat. Fortunately, in this article, we have rounded up ways to winterize your sailboat cheaper and quicker without compromising on quality or safety.
How to Winterize A Sailboat
Winterizing a sailboat is the process of preparing the boat for storage during the winter months, in order to protect it from the harsh weather and prolong its lifespan. Read Also: How to Winterize Your Sailing Electronics. Step by Step Guide on How to Winterize a Sailboat. Here are some steps to follow when winterizing a sailboat: Clean the boat
How To Winterize Your Boat Or Yacht
Boat Winterizing Steps Include: Winterizing the engine and outdrive. Winterizing the fuel system. Winterizing freshwater systems. Preparing the batteries for storage. Removing (or covering) deck furniture. Covering the entire yacht or boat. Choosing a suitable storage option. If you live in one of those nice, warm places where you don't need ...
Winterization
Winterization. It's absolutely critical to properly winterize your boat to avoid damage, no matter whether it stays in the water or spends time on the hard. Follow our time-tested boat winterization advice and tips to ensure your boat comes through the winter safely and you're ready to get back on the water as soon as possible come spring.
How to Winterize a Boat: Here's Everything You Need to Know
Apply corrosion protective chemicals and treatments to the engine to prevent rust. Consult the owner's manual for instructions. Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the engine to get everything circulating in the fuel system. Change the fuel filters and fuel/water separators in the motor. Drain the fresh water plumbing system on the boat.
How to Winterize a Boat
Here's his winterizing checklist of everyt... Captain Brian has been boating for over 20 years and always does all the winterizing on our Sea Ray 410 Sundancer.
How to Winterize a Boat
How to Winterize a Boat. Start by prepping your engine; ensure all water has been drained and removed. Apply corrosion protection to your engine. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions, and complete fogging, if needed. Add a fuel-stabilizing additive to your fuel system; then run the engine. Change your engine's fuel filters ...
How to Winterize a Boat: Steps, Checklist and Costs
Steps to Winterize a Boat. Remember, every boat is different and the winterization process can vary quite a bit from one to another. That said, here are the critical steps: Winterize the engine (s) Winterize the plumbing systems. Winterize any pumps or compartments that may hold water. Remove the batteries.
Boat Stands & Dollies
If you happen to keep your boat in a more temperate zone, remember that an ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure. Find high-quality boat stands and dollies for secure storage and maintenance. Explore options for motorboats, sailboats, and more from trusted brands like Brownell. Shop now at West Marine.
9 Tips for Winterizing a Boat that Stays in the Water
Most of your winterizing tasks are the same, but there are a few ways to make your in-water storage safer for your boat. Here are 9 Tips for Winterizing a Boat that Stays in the Water: Get a Good Cover and Maintain It. Shore Power and Battery Care. Consider a Heater. Ice Eaters Are Your Friend.
How to Winterize a Boat
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to winterize your gasoline outboard engine-powered boat in preparation for winter. 1. Flush and Drain Water Lines. Water expands under extremely low winter temperatures causing damage. Be sure to drain water from the engine cooling systems, plumbing system, or any other system holding water.
Essential steps to winterize your boat
While winterizing your boat is essential for protecting it from the elements, accidents can still happen. Insuring your boat provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Boat insurance can cover a range of incidents, including theft, vandalism, and damage caused by winter storms. It can also provide liability coverage in case of ...
Yes You Can Winterize Your Boat Yourself: Do This
You can expect to spend around $80-$210 for a bare minimum winterization, while a complete winterization can cost you around $299-$805. Complete winterization has higher upfront costs and is more time-consuming, but it provides comprehensive protection against freezing temperatures.
How To Know When to Winterize Your Boat
It is recommended to begin winterizing before temperatures go below freezing, which is 35 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius, and ideally before they dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 4 degrees Celsius. Winterization involves draining the water systems, adding antifreeze to the engine and other systems, and covering the boat to protect it ...
Florida Fishing Seasons: A Short Guide
Winter Fishing in Florida. While anglers in northern climes worry about how to winterize a boat and fishing gear gets packed into closets and garages, in Florida many different bites are just beginning to crank up. Speckled trout are hitting over grass flats in southern areas and sailfish are gathering in big numbers as they work their way down ...

What Is Winterization?

The Winterization Process Made Simple

Step 2: Drain All Water from the System and Replace It with Antifreeze

Step 3: Remove the Batteries

Step 4: Remove All Other Extraneous Supplies

Step 5: Perform Routine Cleaning

Step 6: Inspect Your Sailboat for Repairs

Step 7: Repair the Sails and Store Them

Step 8: Drain and Flush the Head

Step 9: Arrange the Cabin

Step 10: Cover Your Boat

Always Read the Owner's Manual Before Doing Anything!

Do I Need to Winterize My Boat?

Where and How Should I Store My Sailboat?

Your Own Property

Outdoor Storage Facility

Indoor Storage Facility

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