Wintering, a habit for Atlantic yachtsmen
Depending on whether you're sailing in the Atlantic, the English Channel or the Mediterranean, habits differ. Boaters in the north and west generally store their boats in the dry during the autumn and winter months, to protect them from depressions and storms, and only put them back in the water in early spring. Their Mediterranean counterparts, for reasons of both weather and land space, tend to keep their boats in the water all year round, and ignore the ritual of winter storage, a sort of annual clean-up and dismantling.
Evolving trends
However, discussions with a number of professionals on the Atlantic show that this seasonal pattern is disappearing. Between the fine off-season and greater availability, sailors are keeping their boats in the water longer, or even leaving them there all year round in the Atlantic. This is encouraged by the robustness of modern materials, which often require less maintenance. And you, readers, what's your choice today?
However, whether it's a real winterization or annual maintenance, it's important to look after your equipment on a regular basis. So take a look at our current tips, for both for the motor that for black water if you want to limit maintenance, think about alternative solutions, like these dry toilets ...
