Expert Tips for Winter Boat Maintenance in Malta: How to Keep Your Vessel in Top Shape!

Cleaning your boat is SUPER important! 

Make sure you clean and dry your boat thoroughly before storing it away for the winter. Remove any dirt or debris and make sure to dry off all surfaces, including the deck, hull, and inside of the cabin. This will help prevent the buildup of mold and mildew, which can really do a number on your boat over time. A little bit of elbow grease now could save thousands in repairs over time!

 

Store your boat in a DRY location, if possible.

If you have the option, keep your boat indoors or in a boat shed to protect it from the elements. If that's not possible, consider airing it as much as possible so as to aid the boat’s drying time

 

Inspect and maintain your boat's systems.

During the winter months it’s the perfect time to check all of your boat's systems, including the engine, electrical, and plumbing systems, and make any necessary repairs or maintenance are done before the season starts. Trust us, you don't want to be stuck with a boat that's not running properly when the weather starts to warm up.

Protect your boat's exterior.

Use a high-quality wax or polish like the Dulon range offered by Boatcare to protect the finish of your boat and keep it looking its best. This will also help prevent fading and damage from the sun and saltwater.
 

Check your boat's safety equipment.

Ok you have checked the boats systems - engine works brilliant!  Do make sure that all of your boat's safety equipment, such as life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers, are in good working order is another must. This is especially important if you plan on using your boat during the winter months. You do not want to get stuck without them and make your worst scenario even uglier.
 

Check Sea valves

Sea valves need to be inspected and ensured that they are in good working order. Furthermore some insurances actually require that they are completely changed after a certain amount of time. If they look good, it does not necessarily mean that they are good, as metal fatigue and erosion could still be evident and make the structure weaker. A failing sea valve could result in a heavy leak and a sinking boat while a seized valve could stop you from saving a simple leak situation.

Change sacrificial zinc anodes

Sacrificial Zinc Anodes are there to be worn out and it is highly recommended that they are changed every year to avoid unnecessary wear to the boat’s underwater metals like propellers, shafts, rudders, etc..
 

Renew Antifouling paint and check for damage

While the boat is up on land, make sure that the old antifouling is sanded off, removing as many old layers as possible and apply 2 new coats. Also, inspect hull thoroughly for damages, cracks, blisters, etc.. as these would indicate other work needing doing.
 

Keep your boat's batteries healthy and charged.

Just like the battery of your car, if you are storing your boat for an extended period of time, make sure to keep the battery charged to prevent it from losing power.  It is one of those little things many owners tend to forget - but by keeping your boat battery on trickle charge will help ensure that it's ready to go when you take your boat out for the first time in the spring.

These are a few important tips that if followed you will be able to keep your boat in top condition during the winter months in Malta. Proper care and maintenance will help extend the life of your boat and keep it looking its best for years to come. There are many other things to look out for and that is why it is good to have an expert onboard.

Need help with maintaining your boat or require some assistance on storing or berthing? Or perhaps you are looking for to buy or sell your boat? Then why not reach out to the amazing team at Boatcare today via their website on https://www.boatcareltdmalta.com/ or else visiting their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BoatcareTradingLtd and dropping them a message today and let them make your yachting life a dream.

Happy boating!