Winterizing Your Boat: Docking In Cold Weather

Wet docking is a convenient option for boat owners, as it allows them to keep their vessels in the water, typically at a dock or berth, making them ready to sail at any time. However, this convenience comes with a trade-off. Boats stored in wet docks are continuously exposed to the elements, including harsh ultraviolet light, air pollution, bird droppings, and salt water, which can cause corrosion and the buildup of marine organisms on the hull. Additionally, weathering agents and inclement weather conditions can accelerate wear and tear, leading to the need for more frequent repairs. Wet docking also presents challenges when it comes to maintenance and repairs, especially for work that needs to be done below the waterline. In contrast, dry docking offers better protection against these elements and provides easier access for maintenance and repairs. However, it may come with a higher price tag and requires planning and coordination with shipyard staff to have the boat moved into the water.

Dry vs. wet docking: pros and cons

Dry docking and wet docking are two of the most common options for storing your boat when it's not in use. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing between the two. Here is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons of each option:

Dry Docking

Pros:

• Protection against the elements: Dry docking offers excellent protection against saltwater corrosion, marine organisms, and extreme weather conditions that can cause damage to your boat.
• Ease of maintenance and repair: It is easier to perform maintenance and repair tasks on a boat in dry docking, as you can easily walk around and inspect the entire structure, including the hull and waterline.
• Security: Shipyards often have advanced security systems, such as surveillance cameras, security fences, and personnel, providing an additional layer of protection for your boat.

Cons:

• Costs: The additional services and benefits of dry docking, especially indoor and heated facilities, tend to be more expensive than wet docking.
• Water access: With dry docking, you cannot just get on your boat and sail whenever you want. You need to plan ahead and coordinate with the shipyard staff to have your boat moved into the water.

Wet Docking

Pros:

• Convenience: The biggest advantage of wet docking is convenience. Your boat is always ready to sail, which is ideal if you use it frequently.
• Cost: Wet docking can be less expensive than dry docking, depending on the location of the marina and the facilities and services offered.

Cons:

• Exposure to the elements: Keeping your boat in the water exposes it to saltwater, which can cause corrosion and the buildup of marine organisms on the hull. It is also vulnerable to inclement weather and sea conditions, which can accelerate wear and tear.
• Maintenance and repairs: While some maintenance and repair tasks can be performed while the boat is in the water, others, especially those involving the part of the hull below the waterline, can be challenging and may require moving the boat to a shipyard.

In conclusion, both dry docking and wet docking have their advantages and disadvantages. Consider factors such as cost, ease of maintenance and repair, protection from the elements, and convenience when making your decision. Regular maintenance and repair routines are essential to keep your boat in the best possible condition, regardless of the storage method you choose.

Cold water safety tips

Cold water safety is no small matter. Even strong swimmers can drown within 100 yards of swimming in cold water. The risks of boating in cold weather are serious, and the effects of cold water on the body are extreme. Water conducts body heat away much faster than air, causing muscles to become numb and impairing the ability to swim.

Preparation

• Check the weather forecast and water temperature before heading out.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wear several layers of clothing, including a hat, and avoid cotton as the first layer. Synthetic fabrics are best for keeping cool water away from the skin.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Consider using a special life jacket with extra insulation.
• Bring extra clothes in a dry bag and keep them on the boat in case someone gets wet.
• Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit, emergency thermal blankets, and communication and location devices.
• Make sure your boat is in good condition.

In an Emergency

• If you fall into cold water, stay calm and control your breathing.
• If the boat is within reach, lift yourself back on board.
• If the boat has capsized, climb onto the wreckage, even if part of your body is still in the water.
• If the boat or shore is nearby, do not attempt to swim towards it. Strong swimmers have drowned within 100 yards of swimming in cold water.
• Use the 1-10-1 principle: get your breathing under control within 1 minute, perform meaningful activities such as self-rescue or emergency signalling within 10 minutes, and focus on slowing heat loss after 1 hour of useful consciousness.
• If there are multiple people in the water, the "huddle" is recommended. This is where small groups of 2-4 people "hug" with chests touching, with arms placed around the backs of others, and smaller individuals in the middle. The huddle helps to conserve body heat and is easier for rescuers to spot.

Preparing for a cold water boating trip

Cold water boating can be exhilarating, but it is important to take extra precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for a cold water boating trip:

Understand the Risks of Cold Water Immersion

Firstly, it is crucial to understand the dangers of cold water immersion. When a person falls into cold water, they experience a "gasp reflex", which can lead to hyperventilation, muscle spasms, and inhalation of water. This initial shock can be deadly, causing a person to drown before hypothermia even sets in. After 30 minutes in cold water, the body's core temperature drops, leading to hypothermia, loss of consciousness, and possibly death. Therefore, swift rescue and timely re-entry into the boat are critical.

Wear Appropriate Clothing and Gear

When boating in cold weather, dress according to the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wear multiple layers, starting with a base layer made of synthetic fabric that wicks away moisture. Always wear a hat, as a significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. Bring extra clothes in a dry bag, in case you or someone in your party gets wet. It is also recommended to wear a properly fitted life jacket, which can double as an additional insulating layer.

Pack Food and Drinks

Avoiding hunger and staying hydrated are crucial for maintaining your internal temperature and energy levels. Pack snacks high in protein, bring plenty of water, and include a thermos of a warm beverage.

Prepare Your Boat

Before embarking on a cold water boating trip, ensure your boat is properly maintained and equipped for the cold. Service your boat's engine to prevent condensation and fuel breakdown. Install a smart charger to keep your battery charged during long periods of inactivity. Additionally, consider using a floating boat lift to protect your boat from harsh temperatures and freezing water.

Learn Survival Techniques

Familiarize yourself with cold water survival techniques, such as the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (H.E.L.P.). This technique involves pulling your knees to your chest and wrapping your arms tightly around them, minimizing heat loss. If you are in the water with others, you can also use the "huddle" technique to maintain body heat by huddling together, facing inward, and intertwining your arms and legs.

Remember, boating in cold water can be dangerous, so always prioritize safety and be prepared for any emergencies.

Winter boat maintenance tips

Winterising your boat is essential to safeguard your investment. Proper maintenance and storage can prevent expensive repairs and issues down the line. Here are some tips to ensure your boat is ready for the cold months and the next boating season.

Engine Care

• Change the oil and filter.
• Add a fuel stabiliser to your gas tank to prevent condensation and fuel degradation.
• Flush the engine with fresh water.
• Ensure the cooling system is drained to avoid freezing and cracking.
• Check the fuel line and bulb and replace if needed.
• Change the water impeller; this should be done at least once a year.
• Check the wires and rotor cap.
• Check the belts and adjust the tension as needed.
• Check the sacrificial anodes and replace if more than 50% deteriorated.
• Grease the prop shaft and threads.
• Remove the battery and put it on a marine trickle charger.

Hull and Exterior Care

• Clean the hull and remove any barnacles or marine growth to prevent staining and damage.
• Wax and compound the hull to protect against oxidation, UV damage, and the harsh marine environment.
• Check the hull for any damages and get them repaired.

Electrical and Plumbing

• Drain all water from pipes, tanks, and pumps to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Disconnect and remove the battery, store it in a dry place, and check its charge periodically.
• Ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure.

General Cleaning and Maintenance

• Remove all personal items, food, and valuables.
• Clean the interior and use moisture absorbers to keep the environment dry.
• Vacuum cushions and mattresses and set them upright to allow airflow during storage.
• Oil the hinges and door latches.
• Lubricate all snaps and zippers.
• Wash down the boat, paying special attention to rust stains, tree sap, and water runoff.
• Wax the topsides, especially those that will be exposed during winter.
• Protect Isinglass with a specialty protectant.

Docking

If you plan to keep your boat docked during the winter, consider a floating boat lift or dock that can handle icy conditions. Traditional stationary lifts and docks can be destroyed by moving ice, so look for durable, shallow-drafting, portable modules that can be stored indoors if needed.

Cold weather boat lifts

Boating in cold weather can be challenging, especially when bodies of water freeze over. Traditional stationary lifts and docks are often destroyed during icy conditions. However, some boat lifts are specifically designed for cold weather and can help boat owners navigate the challenges of winter boating.

Jet Dock's Cold Weather Boat Lifts

Jet Dock offers winter boat dock options that provide shallow-drafting, durable modules that can solve ice problems and withstand cold weather. Their docks can remain in the ice during winter, as long as there is no "moving" ice that can damage the dock by tearing it away or banging it against another structure. Unlike mechanical lifts, Jet Dock's winter boat lifts do not need to be removed and stored on land during winter, saving time and money for cold-water boating enthusiasts.

Cable Boat Lifts

Cable boat lifts that are hung overhead or situated dockside do not need to be removed during winter. Leaving them in place will not void their warranties, and they are not susceptible to potential damage from winter weather. However, it is important to ensure that these lifts are properly winterized and secured according to the operator's manual.

Hydraulic Boat Lifts

Hydraulic boat lifts can remain in the water during winter in areas without ice flows. To avoid damage, it is crucial to properly flush the lines to prevent moisture buildup and verify that the hydraulic fluid is formulated for cold temperatures.

Specialty Cold-Weather Docks

For those who enjoy cold-weather boating, specialty docks are available that are designed to withstand winter elements. These docks are left in the water and typically lack moving parts that can be damaged by harsh weather conditions.

Winterizing Your Boat Lift

If you decide to remove your boat lift for the winter, it is important to follow proper procedures for winterizing. Using a boat lift wheel kit and a boat lift jack can make it easier to remove the lift from the water. Once removed, it is important to inspect the lift thoroughly, including cables, beams, bunks, gears, motors, and pulleys. Any chain or bearings requiring lubrication should be sufficiently greased before storing. If indoor storage is not available, be sure to cover the lift to protect it from the elements.

Frequently asked questions