New Owner H23.5

[Hawk4661]

1993 H23.5....My first winter sailing....do I need to cover with tarp for winter in Bella Vista Ar.?
We have some freezing rian and ligth snow occasionally.
Does this also include pulling battery,and sails out of boat? I was hoping to sail off and on all winter.?
Please advise...ty mark<><

 

[Ray T]

When I lived in Annapolis in the early years I used to strip the boat of battery's and sails. In later years I didn't, I couldn't see any difference. One thing you need to do is check the cockpit so you don't wind up with a big block of ice on the sole. When it starts to freeze and you have rain the cockpit drains will freeze and not drain. Ray T

 

[sea_casper]

You definitely do not have to pull the battery, as long as you can occasionally charge it, it will freeze only if discharged.

I assume you leave the mast up, it doesn't take long to remove/replace the main, but a good sail cover should work for you.

If you have a furling Jib I recommend a cover for it, it will keep it from icing. On the H23.5 I recommend taping over the table mounting hole in the cockpit, if water freezes in there it can crack the fiberglass, and it will leak below in the aft berth.

As you know, there are no cockpit drains on the H23.5 to worry about.

I also recommend the Hunter Smaller Boats Forum for H23.5 questions.

Good luck on winter sailing! Here in New England we have to wait for spring.

 

[Scott2]

H23.5 and Winter

Never ever .... ever let the water freeze in the water balast tank. Take my word for it. A previous owner of mine did and it is not an easy locaton to find nor an easy repair.

Other than that, have a great time with your new H23.5. Easy boat to sail.

Good Sailing,
Scott