Unfortunately, boats moored in temperate climates are often not given the preparation they need for the onset of wintertime. Owners can get caught out when a cold snap (even a short one) plays havoc with their vessels structure and systems. Owners using St. Petersburg Marinas can rely on getting timely help with this all-important aspect of boat ownership.
In areas of the country that have harsh winters, keeping vessels onshore for the winter season is standard practise. In states with milder winters, the in-water vs. Onshore issue is really down to personal choice. Many choose to keep their vessels sea-bound since this makes things easier when it comes to re-commissioning.
Many owners however prefer onshore storage since this is overall the safer option. One obvious but huge advantage is that a land-stored vessel cant sink. Reclaiming a sunken vessel is a massive and expensive task which is of course best avoided. Significant numbers of craft sink each year due to thru-hulls that have been left open.
If a vessel is kept in the water, its essential that all of its seacocks are closed to prevent water ingress. The exception being those used for cockpit drains. If there are any thru-hulls below the waterline that cannot for any reason be closed, then the vessel must be stored ashore.
With regard to fiberglass hulled vessels, on-shore storage has the advantage of keeping them exposed to air and thus reducing the risk of blistering. These unsightly blemishes develop when water seeps beneath the hulls gelcoat and penetrates the first layer or so of fiberglass composite. They can be up to a few inches in size and are a most unwelcome (and expensive) development for any owner.
In general, preparing a boat for winter need not be a difficult undertaking. St. Petersburg Marinas can help owners do it the right way and ensure their vessels remain safe and ready for the next season. If they are in any doubt about what to do, experienced staff are always on hand to give advice.
In areas of the country that have harsh winters, keeping vessels onshore for the winter season is standard practise. In states with milder winters, the in-water vs. Onshore issue is really down to personal choice. Many choose to keep their vessels sea-bound since this makes things easier when it comes to re-commissioning.
Many owners however prefer onshore storage since this is overall the safer option. One obvious but huge advantage is that a land-stored vessel cant sink. Reclaiming a sunken vessel is a massive and expensive task which is of course best avoided. Significant numbers of craft sink each year due to thru-hulls that have been left open.
If a vessel is kept in the water, its essential that all of its seacocks are closed to prevent water ingress. The exception being those used for cockpit drains. If there are any thru-hulls below the waterline that cannot for any reason be closed, then the vessel must be stored ashore.
With regard to fiberglass hulled vessels, on-shore storage has the advantage of keeping them exposed to air and thus reducing the risk of blistering. These unsightly blemishes develop when water seeps beneath the hulls gelcoat and penetrates the first layer or so of fiberglass composite. They can be up to a few inches in size and are a most unwelcome (and expensive) development for any owner.
In general, preparing a boat for winter need not be a difficult undertaking. St. Petersburg Marinas can help owners do it the right way and ensure their vessels remain safe and ready for the next season. If they are in any doubt about what to do, experienced staff are always on hand to give advice.
About the Author:
Maximo Marina is one of the finest St. Petersburg marinas to keep your boat. For info on our metered electricity and laundry facilities, visit us on the Web at http://www.maximomarina.com/ today.
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