Laying up for winter

With the crisp mornings, stunning sunsets and Christmas tree up, winter is upon us once again.

Now is a great time to prepare your vessel, so you can hit the ground running for Spring, especially with an early Easter Sunday on 4 April 2021 – we’re hoping for a good one! 

Our top tips for laying her up, afloat or ashore include:

Must do’s

• Engine winterise (if ashore, or if in the marina without heating) 
• Fresh water tanks to be drained 
• Fuel tank to be filled up 
• Gas bottles to be turned off, and disconnected 
• Holding tank flushed and drained 
• Remove all petrol and outboard from lockers 

Nice to do’s

• Ventilation throughout the boat 
• Heater and dehumidifier on 
• Fridge to be open 
• Outboard engine service and winterise 
• Sails removed, serviced, cleaned 
• Liferafts & lifejackets, annual service – don’t leave it until February when it’s busy! 
• Lift any ropes, halyards and sheets etc off the deck and tied to hang in the air – or better still mouse out the lines, wash and store dry at home! 
• Remove upholstery/books/charts-moisture absorbing things. Spray hood/dodgers removed, cleaned and stored 
• Book your lifting date for antifoul and anodes. 

With the above achieved, you can sit back and relax over winter, in the knowledge you will be race ready for Spring.  

Of course, if you would like us to help ready her for winter for you, or if you have any winter maintenance or refit requests please just give your local boatfolk boatcare team a call!

Deacons Marina – 02380 402253 

Portland Marina – 01305 818550 

Haslar Marina – 02392 584374