The Essential Guide to Laying Up Your Boat for Winter

1. Planning Ahead.

1. Check your insurance policy – Many require certain lay-up measures, such as fuel tank precautions or battery disconnection.
   
2. Create a checklist – Every boat is different. Note which systems you have (engine type, heating, electronics, etc.) and plan a sequence.
   
3. Book services in advance – Yard services, antifouling, and shrink-wrapping fill up fast in autumn.

2. Hull & Exterior Care.

• Pressure wash immediately after lift-out – antifouling paint hardens quickly once dry, making cleaning more difficult.
  
• Inspect the hull closely – Look for osmosis blisters, gelcoat cracks, or damage. Note repairs needed over winter.
  
• Remove anodes – Replace sacrificial anodes if more than 50% wasted. Check shafts and propellers for wear.

• Scrape and sand loose paint – Winter is the best time to prepare for a fresh antifoul coat in spring.
  
• Check through-hull fittings and seacocks – Operate them, grease if necessary, and ensure they’re not seized.

• Wash and wax topsides - A protective polish prevents grime buildup and reduces UV damage.
  
• Clean and protect stainless steel - Apply a corrosion inhibitor or light oil film.
  
• Check deck fittings and stanchions - Tighten loose bolts and inspect for leaks.

3. Engine & Mechanical Systems.

• Flush with fresh water – Run the engine with a fresh-water supply to clear salt and deposits.
  
• Change oil and filters – Old oil contains acids that corrode internals over winter. Replace fuel filters too.
  
• Drain cooling systems (if raw water) or fill with antifreeze solution for protection.
  
• Fog the engine – Spray fogging oil into air intakes to protect cylinders from corrosion.
  
• Check belts, hoses, and clamps – Replace any cracked or worn components.

• Flush with fresh water – Run on muffs or in a tank.
  
• Drain carburettors – Prevents gumming. For fuel-injected, use a stabiliser instead.
  
• Change lower-unit gear oil – Look for signs of water contamination (milky colour).
  
• Grease all fittings – Apply protective oil spray to external surfaces.

• Fill tanks fully (diesel) – Reduces condensation and microbial growth. Add biocide if storing long-term.
• Stabilise petrol – Use a fuel stabiliser; petrol degrades in as little as 3 months.

4. Electrical Systems & Batteries.

• Fully charge batteries before disconnecting.
  
• Remove and store in a dry place if possible – Batteries self-discharge less in warmth.
  
• If left aboard, isolate switches and use a trickle charger or solar panel.
  
• Clean terminals and apply petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.
  
• Check wiring for chafe – Cold and damp worsen hidden electrical faults.

5. Plumbing & Fresh Water Systems.

• Drain all water tanks – Standing water stagnates, breeds bacteria, and can freeze.
  
• Run pumps dry to clear lines.
  
• Use non-toxic antifreeze in water systems, calorifiers, and heads. Pump it through until it emerges at outlets.
  
• Empty holding tanks before lay-up – Prevents unpleasant surprises in spring.

6. Interior Protection.

• Ventilation & Damp Prevention
  
• Remove soft furnishings if possible – Store at home in dry conditions.
  
• Use moisture traps or dehumidifiers – Helps prevent mildew and damp smells.
  
• Ventilate lockers and bilges – Leave locker doors ajar and floorboards lifted slightly.

• Deep clean galley and fridge – Remove all perishable food.
  
• Clean bilges – A clean bilge prevents odours and corrosion.
  
• Wipe down all surfaces with mild cleaner or vinegar solution to deter mould.

7. Sails, Rigging & Canvas.

• Remove sails – Wash with fresh water and dry thoroughly before storage.
• Check stitching and UV covers – Arrange repairs before next season.
• Wash and dry covers, sprayhoods, and biminis – Store dry to avoid mildew.
• Inspect rigging – Look for frayed wires, corroded fittings, and hairline cracks around terminals.

8. Safety Equipment.

• Remove and service life jackets – Check gas cylinders and firing heads.
  
• Service life rafts, fire extinguishers, and EPIRBs if due.
  
• Check expiry dates on distress flares and replace as needed.

9. Covers & Storage.

• Invest in a good winter cover – Reduces UV damage, dirt, and water ingress.
  
• Avoid tarpaulins that trap moisture – Use breathable marine-grade covers where possible.
  
• Support covers properly – Prevent sagging and pooling water.

10. Final Checklist Before Walking Away.

• Boat secure in cradle or mooring.
• All seacocks closed (except cockpit drains if left afloat).
  
• Engine winterised and batteries safe.
  
• Water systems drained or antifreezed.
  
• Valuables removed.
  
• Covers fitted and secured.
  
• Regular inspection plan scheduled (every few weeks if possible).

Key Takeaway