Winter storage: how to best prepare the sailboat

storage Winter boat storage is a very important step to protect the boat during the winter months and ensure its longevity.
Preparing it as well as possible means avoiding damage caused by weather and inactivity, thus preserving its performance for the following season.
In this article we will tell you about svb-marine.co.uk ‘s practical tips on how to deal with winterization, from cleaning to protecting every component, to keep your sailboat in perfect condition.

The 8 steps not to be missed before winterization

It is essential to prepare the boat before winter storage, with a series of steps that help preserve the boat and all its parts during the winter, preventing damage from cold and wet weather.

• General cleaning:
  • How should I clean my boat before winter storage?
    All cleaning items can be found at svb-marine.com.
  • Wash the boat to remove salt, algae and dirt.
  • Clean and dry the interior of the boat thoroughly, including lockers and compartments.
• Motor:
  • Replace the engine oil and oil filter.
  • Wash the engine with fresh water to remove salt residue.
  • Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank.
  • Empty and clean the cooling system.
• Electricalsystem:
  • Disconnect and remove batteries; store them in a dry place and charge them periodically.
  • Check and insulate any exposed electrical wiring.
• Coverage:
  • Cover the boat with a waterproof, breathable tarp, making sure it is securely fastened.
• Hull and hull:
  • Check the hull for any damage or cracks and repair if necessary.
  • Apply an antifouling treatment if necessary.
  • Raise the boat on a pot or trestles to prevent deformation.
• Accessories and equipment:
  • Remove and store all movable accessories, such as cushions, sails, life jackets, etc., indoors.
  • Lubricate all moving parts, such as winches, hinges and locks.
• Replacement of lost/broken parts:
  • In the Spare Parts section of svb-marine.com you can find everything you need to refurbish your boat’s various instruments.
• Documentation:
  • Ensure that the insurance policy is also valid during the wintering period.
  • Record all operations performed to facilitate subsequent maintenance.

In addition to these tips, find the complete guide to winter storage at svb marine.co.uk

To disassemble or not to disassemble the shaft?

One of the most common dilemmas among sailors when it comes to boat storage is: is it better to disassemble the mast or leave it mounted?
Both solutions have advantages and disadvantages, mainly related to equipment protection, boat stability, and maintenance.
The decision whether or not to decommission the mast for the winter depends on the size of the yacht, technical conditions, and storage location.
Let’s look at the key advantages and disadvantages together to make the best decision for your sailboat’s long winter rest.

Do not disassemble the shaft

Advantages:

– Time savings, especially for larger yachts.
– Less work to restore the rigging in spring.

Disadvantages:

• Increased stress on the hull, especially if the boat is supported by a pedestal with few contact points.
• Risk of rollover in high winds.

Disassembling the shaft

Advantages:

• Lower hull stress.
• Ability to perform more accurate and safer maintenance on maneuvers.
• Reduced risk of weather-related damage.

Disadvantages:

• Each disassembly and reassembly of fixed rigging increases stress on materials.

Practical tips for decommissioning and maintenance

When it comes time to prepare the boat for downtime, decommissioning and maintenance are crucial steps to ensure that the boat is ready to return to sea in perfect condition the following year, because regular maintenance and inspection of rigging are crucial to safety at sea.
Here are helpful tips on how to properly disassemble equipment, protect major components, and plan effective maintenance to preserve the performance and longevity of your sailboat.

Before disarmament:

• Document and mark the basic setup.
• Loosen the turnbuckles and replace the cotter pins.
• Remove current rigging and inspect it for damage.

During maintenance:

• Clean the mast and rigging with fresh water, using specific products to remove dirt and salt.
• Check the electronics on the mast (cables, position lights, antennas) and replace any damaged components.
• Disassemble delicate accessories such as antennas and wind sensors to avoid damage during winter.

Inspection and replacement of rigging:

• Inspect fixed rigging for cracks, creases, or signs of wear.
• If necessary, replace damaged cables, including turnbuckles and their connections.
• Never replace a single cable without also changing its counterpart in order to maintain the balance of the limb.

In addition to these tips, find the complete guide to rigging decommissioning and storage at svb marine.co.uk