Wintering a Boat : Our Advices | APRIL Marine
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Winter is coming

Winterize

It’s already time to start thinking about storing boats for the winter! You have to winterize your watercraft from November 30th to April 1st.

The 3 most common boat insurance claims made during the winter months are related to snow accumulating on the boat’s shelter, if it collapses, it risks damaging it; vermin making a comfy home for themselves in the boat for the cold season, and theft.

For maximum protection, you should have your boat winterized by a professional. This is the only way to ensure any loss or damage due to freezing during the winter layup will be covered.

Boat winterizing tips:

  1. Empty out the boat. Remove all personal belongings, tools, fishing water sports equipment, etc.
  2. Have the boat winterized at a marina or by a licensed professional, such as a qualified mechanic or watercraft repairer. Keep all receipts in case you need to make a claim.
  3. Use a locking device to make trailer hitch inoperable.
  4. Check the watercraft after bad weather such as a blizzard, ice storm, freezing rain, etc. Remove any snow, ice or frost that has accumulated on the winter cover.
  5. Check the boat cover periodically for holes, which are generally caused by vermin and rodents. Patch all holes – ideally, when the animals aren’t inside – and contact APRIL Marine Assistance for further advice.

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