With a new boating season just around the corner, now is the time to start making sure everything is ready to get your boat back out there on the water. You have the whole summer ahead of you, so do what you can right now to ensure you make the most of every possible minute.
To help you get started, here are some ways you can start now to prepare your boat for the summer.
Start Early
The last thing you want is to get all the way to the start of boating season, only to find that you overlooked something important that prevents you from getting started. You don’t want to lose any precious time! Don’t leave anything to the last minute, no matter how small or easy it might seem.
Here are some things to take into consideration as you prepare:
- Get your paperwork in order. Do you need to renew registration, licensing, etc.? Even if you think the answer is no, double-check now so you don’t encounter any surprises later on.
- Start purchasing supplies and replacements. Do you need any new safety equipment? How about things that will make your boating season more enjoyable, like water sports equipment, games, cooking supplies, etc.?
- Make a bucket list. What are some adventures or new experiences you know you want to have this year? Scheduling them on your calendar now will help make sure nothing falls through the cracks once summer arrives.
Starting the preparations early will also help pass the time until boating season officially begins.
Clean & Inspect the Boat
Put your best foot forward by starting the season with a freshly cleaned boat. Be sure to clean it thoroughly inside and out, and eliminate any mold, rust, and other grime or dust that may have accumulated over the winter months.
As you clean, also check your boat for any signs of deterioration, breakage, leaks, or anything else that could cause issues later on. Even though you should have inspected it thoroughly before storing it away for winter — and even if you checked on it periodically throughout these past few months — anything from pests to weather could have caused damage to occur. And even the smallest cracks can quickly become costly, time-consuming problems if you don’t catch them in time.
Now is also the time to test out your electronics, batteries, lights, etc., and make sure everything is in working order.
Perform Any Needed Maintenance
Make sure your inspection covers the entire boat, inside and out, and includes the engine, fuel system, belts, and everything else. Following a checklist like this one can help ensure you don’t miss any little part.
If you find any leaks, breakage, or parts that need replacing, the sooner you get them addressed, the easier it’ll be to start your boating season right away. And catching them before they have a chance to get worse keeps your boat from getting laid up in a shop during those all-too-short summer months.
If you’re lucky enough not to find any major maintenance needs, now’s also a great time to brush up on your skills through online training, so you’re ready if any problems present themselves later.
Make the Most of Next Boating Season
Instead of thinking about de-winterizing your boat as a chore, use it to build your excitement for the season to come. As you work to prepare your boat for warmer weather, the time will pass quickly and you’ll be back out there on the water in no time!
