As the boating season winds down in the UK – usually towards the end of September or early October – it’s the perfect time to start preparing your yacht for winter. Whether you own a sailing yacht or a motor cruiser, taking a bit of time now to winterise your boat properly will save you trouble later and help keep everything in good condition until spring.
Drain All Water Systems and Tanks
Start by draining all fresh water systems on board. This includes tanks, pumps, pipework and any water heaters. Leaving water inside over winter can lead to cracked pipes if it freezes. Once emptied, leave taps open to allow any leftover moisture to escape naturally.
For boats with a hot water system, make sure you either bypass or drain it as advised by the manufacturer.
Add Antifreeze to Engines and Toilets
Your engine and onboard toilet also need protection from freezing temperatures. Run marine-safe antifreeze through the engine’s cooling system and check the coolant levels in any closed systems. This helps prevent frost damage and corrosion while the boat is laid up.
Flush your toilet and waste tank, then pump antifreeze through those systems as well. This keeps seals and pipes safe through the winter.
Treat the Fuel and Change Filters
As fuel can degrade over time, it’s worth adding a stabiliser before winter. This helps prevent water build-up and protects the engine’s fuel system. Run the engine briefly afterwards to circulate the treated fuel.
Changing the fuel filters before laying up is also a good idea, as it removes water and debris that could cause problems later.
Clean the Cabin and Control Damp
Give the inside of your boat a thorough clean. Empty out the food, remove the bedding, and take out anything that might attract mould or mildew. Wipe down surfaces and leave cupboards ajar to let air circulate.
If you have shore power, running a dehumidifier occasionally will help. Otherwise, moisture traps or a few trays of salt or bicarbonate of soda can make a noticeable difference in keeping damp at bay.
Remove Sails and Canvas
Take off sails, covers, and sprayhoods if possible. Give them a proper wash and let them dry fully before storing them in a dry place. Keeping these off the boat helps reduce wear from wind and wet weather, and also keeps mildew from forming in storage.
Check Electrics and Look After Batteries
Inspect your electrical systems for any signs of corrosion or damage. Disconnect and remove portable electronics where possible.
For batteries, the best option is to take them home and keep them charged in a dry, frost-free spot. If they stay on board, ensure they’re fully charged and disconnected from the main switch to prevent slow drains over winter.
Cover the Boat or Use a Shrink-Wrap Service
A decent winter cover will protect your boat from rain, snow and debris. Make sure it fits well and allows for airflow to prevent condensation underneath. If you want a more robust option, some marinas offer shrink-wrap services that seal the boat with a tight, weatherproof layer.
This extra barrier helps preserve your topsides, fittings and deck equipment through the harshest winter weather.
Winterising your yacht might not be the most exciting job, but it’s well worth doing. With a bit of planning and a few key checks, you can leave your boat safe, dry and ready to go when the new season arrives. From draining water systems to covering up properly, every step helps protect the boat you enjoy so much.