Get your boat ready for winter with APRIL Marine. Discover our best tips for safe boat storage and winterization to protect your vessel all season long.
Proper boat winterization is essential to protect your vessel from freezing, humidity, and theft during the cold months. At APRIL Marine, we’re sharing our best tips to store your boat safely and avoid unpleasant surprises in the spring.
When should you store your boat?
Boat storage should be done between November 30 and April 1st. During this period, your vessel may be exposed to several risks, including:
- Snow accumulation, which can cause shelters to collapse and damage the boat;
- Theft of the boat or its equipment;
- Rodents, always looking for a cozy place to spend the winter.
Why trust a professional with your winterization?
For optimal insurance coverage, it is highly recommended to have your boat winterized by a professional (mechanic, repair shop, or marina). Damage caused by freezing during the off-season is not covered if the winterization was not carried out by a qualified specialist.
Tip: Always keep receipts for these services, they may be required in the event of a claim.
Our tips for a successful boat winterization
1. Prepare your boat thoroughly
Remove all personal belongings, tools, fishing gear, and water sports equipment. Empty storage compartments and make sure everything is dry before covering your boat.
2. Protect your boat and trailer
Install a proper locking device on your trailer hitch to prevent theft. Choose an approved and durable lock.
3. Check on your boat throughout the winter
After any major weather event (snowstorm, freeze, or ice rain), inspect the condition of your boat and its shelter. Remove excess snow or ice from the winter cover.
4. Inspect the cover
Regularly check the boat cover for holes or damage caused by rodents or other animals. Seal any openings as soon as possible and don’t hesitate to contact APRIL Marine Assistance for additional advice.
Bonus: Exclusive benefits for APRIL Marine policyholders!
As a APRIL Marine policyholder and member of the Club APRIL Marine, you can enjoy an exclusive offer with our partner AMP Lock to protect your boat and trailer against theft.
An approved lock is not only an excellent theft deterrent, but it also helps speed up the claims process in the event of a loss.
Log in your Member Space to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
