Winter is coming to an end, and with the return of pleasant weather, the desire to resume sailing grows. But before you cast off, it's essential to get your boat back in shape after several months of storage.
Poor preparation can lead to breakdowns or incidents while sailing. To avoid any surprises and set off safely, here's a comprehensive checklist to get your boat back on the water effectively.
Before even stepping on board, start by doing a full walk-around of the boat.
Check the hull for any cracks, blisters, or signs of wear. If your boat was left afloat during the winter, cleaning might be necessary to remove accumulated debris and algae.
Next, check the sacrificial anodes—those small metal pieces attached to the hull that protect the boat from corrosion. If they're worn by more than 50%, replace them immediately.
Don't forget to check the rudder and propeller
The engine is the heart of your boat. After several months of inactivity, some checks are essential.
Start by checking the level and condition of the engine oil. Cloudy or milky oil could indicate water intrusion, which may require an oil change. Do the same for the transmission oil, which ensures the connection between the engine and the propeller.
Inspect the belts and hoses. The cold and humidity may have caused them to deteriorate or crack. A loose or worn belt could cause an engine failure while on the water.
Drain any accumulated water from the fuel separator. The moisture in the tank during winter can encourage bacteria growth, which might clog the injectors.
Once these checks are done, you can start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes while monitoring temperature and oil pressure gauges. Listen carefully—any abnormal noise could indicate a mechanical problem.
Humidity can damage electrical components, so it's important to test every piece of equipment before heading out.
Start by turning on and testing the navigation lights, interior lighting, and electrical outlets. Replace any blown bulbs and clean any oxidized contacts if necessary.
The batteries should be fully charged and their voltage tested. A weak or worn-out battery might prevent the engine from starting.
Test your GPS, sonar, and VHF radio. Ensure that all signals are being received and that the VHF is functioning properly.
Lastly, don't forget the bilge pump. Activate it to check that it properly evacuates water and turns on automatically when needed.
During winter storage, impurities or water may accumulate in the tanks.
Start by inspecting the fuel tank and add an antibacterial additive if necessary. This will eliminate microorganisms that could clog the engine.
Also, rinse the freshwater tanks with a food-grade disinfectant. Run water through all the faucets to remove any stagnant residues.
If your boat has marine toilets, ensure that the valves are functioning properly and that the pump isn't blocked. A preventive pump-out may be useful before heading out.
Safety aboard is a top priority. Take the time to check all your mandatory safety gear before leaving.
Ensure that your life jackets are in good condition and comply with current regulations. Test inflatable models to ensure they work properly.
Fire extinguishers should be checked and properly pressurized. An expired or discharged extinguisher will be useless in the event of a fire onboard.
Review your first aid kit and replace any expired medications. Make sure you have bandages, antiseptics, and other basic supplies on hand.
Finally, test your VHF radio to ensure you can contact emergency services if needed.
Once all these checks are completed, it's time to refine the final details.
Ensure your boating documents (permit, registration) are up to date. Check the weather forecast to avoid any surprises.
Before embarking on a long journey, do a trial run in a basin or on a short distance to confirm everything is functioning properly.
Proper preparation allows you to avoid breakdowns and sail safely. With these tips, you're ready to fully enjoy the season.
Is your boat ready? Share your experience in the comments and let us know how you prepare for your first outing of the year!