Some people boat all winter, personally i think its the best time for boating. Miles of uncongested waters and those frosty mornings are just Magic. But for the other 99% out there here are some tips. Any addition tips are welcome.
The Boat’s Engine As this is probably the most important and potentially expensive item on your boat and the messiest job of all, it’s better to take care of your boat’s engine first. The initial thing you should do is to change the oil and filter as you won’t want dirty oil in the engine stagnating throughout the entire winter.
Then you need to drain the engine’s cooling system completely by opening the coolant drain situated at the lowest point of the engine’s system. If it’s a closed system, put in the recommended antifreeze and water solution according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. If it’s an open system, flush it with clean water using a hose. The water tanks must also be drained, toilets pumped dry and fuel tanks filled to capacity. Ensure bilge pumps are clear from debris and greased and batterys are charged regularily .
Its important to remove as much of the gear that you keep on the boat as you can as you won’t want them to collect moisture and mildew over the winter. So, things like life jackets, cushions, or anything else which could be affected by the elements should be removed from the boat.