With autumn, the sailing season comes to an end. It’s the perfect moment to haul out your boat and prepare it for the winter. Even if you won’t be sailing until next spring, don’t just forget about it: a bit of maintenance now will save you trouble and unnecessary expenses later.
Haul-out
Thoroughly wash the entire boat with fresh water under pressure: hull, deck, rigging and gear. Remove algae, growth and dirt, and make sure shafts, propellers, struts, seacocks and anodes are clean.
- Asegura la protecciĂłn del barco
Add extra fenders and double the mooring lines to withstand strong storms. Remove sails, biminis and covers to avoid damage from wind and extend their lifespan.
- Don’t leave tasks for spring
Postponing repairs can lead to costly delays at the start of the new season. Do them now and take advantage of lighter workloads and off-season prices from mechanics, sailmakers, painters and shipyards. Many marinas even offer winter discounts for haul-out and storage.
- Engine care
Add antifreeze to the cooling system, flush the heat exchangers and fill the fuel tank to prevent condensation and bacteria. Carry out the annual service: oil and filter changes, plus transmission and gearbox checks. Inspect shaft, bearings and propeller for wear or signs of dezincification.
- Batteries and electrics
Keep batteries charged throughout the winter—either recharge monthly, connect a trickle charger or use a small solar panel. Check all lights and electronics, as small issues often go unnoticed.
- Keep the interior fresh and dry
Moisture leads to mold, damaging woodwork and upholstery. Use a dehumidifier (if shore power is available) or ensure good ventilation by leaving doors open and standing mattresses on edge. Empty fresh water tanks and pipes to prevent freezing.
- Structural check
Inspect the hull and deck for cracks, scratches and leaks. If damage reaches the fiberglass, get it professionally repaired. Reseal fittings properly to prevent water intrusion.
- Sails
Check seams, chafe points and tension areas such as halyard, tack and clew corners, as well as leech and batten pockets. Mark any areas needing repair with tape so the sailmaker can find them easily.
- Deck gear and fittings
Ensure winches and deck hardware work smoothly. Winter is also the ideal time to plan upgrades or modifications while the season’s experience is still fresh.
- Rigging
Wash halyards and sheets in fresh water, check their condition and replace or reverse them if needed. Inspect standing rigging carefully: chainplates, terminals, spreader bases and sheaves. Lubricate with silicone spray.
- Safety equipment
Check expiration dates on flares and EPIRBs. Schedule servicing of life raft and jackets. Replace lifelines older than five years, as UV exposure weakens them.
👉 By taking these steps, your boat will stay safe through the winter and be ready to set sail confidently next spring. ⚓🌞
