Winter Storage - In/Out, Pro/Con

[Paul R. Mitchell]

I have the option of in-water storage this winter for Dilemma, our '83 Hunter 27. The marina is located in the lower Hudson River, is well protected and is equipped with bubblers. Are there benefits to in-water storage other than economic -- in-water storage is a couple hundred dollars cheaper PLUS in-water storage (slip rental) is not taxable in NY, but on-land storage is? What are the disadvantages?The bottom was painted last Spring ('99) and the boat is tight. Should she be hauled in the Spring for routine maintenance or should we be able to go two years between routine haulouts?What special precautions, other than the routine winterization chores, must be taken for in-water winter storage. Thanks in advance,Paul

 

[Bob Zolczer]

Here are some thoughts

I've stored my H29.5 wet for 4 years now.I've been told that water supports a boat better than jackstands. On the other hand, taking the boat out of the water allows the hull to dry more thoroughly, retarding the onset of blistering.I've used normal winterization in CT. It works just fine. I would suggest buying a small plastic snowshovel. This will enable you to remove snow from the boat, which can melt and refreeze in the freeze/thaw cycles in our area. Once snow melts, the resulting water can find its way into tiny areas and expand them, causing leaks.In addition to the economic advantages, I haul the boat in August, when boatyards are not busy. Short hauls and bottom painting seem to be cheapest then.

 

[Clyde Lichtenwalner]

Depends on you

Your boat can't sink if it is hauled! That said, I wet store every other year. I am in a good, de-iced, marina that keeps an eye on many in-water boats, and I personally check the boat almost weekly. I remove snow, use a cover over the companionway, and keep the scuppers clear of ice so they drain. If you can't do the same because you live far from you boat, I would not store in the water.

 

[Steve]

Winter Haul Outs

I lived in New York most of my life and I could never stand the short sailing season. The answer to haul or not is easy; move to Florida!