We Minnesotans know that when September hits, the countdown begins on how many more days we can enjoy getting out on the water without a layer of long underwear and a parka. But before the winter weather creeps in, you’ll want to make sure your boat is also ready to face the cold. We sat down with the experts at MarineMax Excelsior on how to protect and winterize your boat so that, come spring, you can avoid major headaches and ensure you’re ready to hit the water as soon as the ice melts.
MarineMax is the world’s largest lifestyle retailer of recreational boats and yachts, offering a complete range of services, expertise, and support to help you fully embrace the boating life. “We’re a community of boating experts and enthusiasts dedicated to supporting you at every stage of your journey,” says Kayla Harper, Regional Marketing Manager at MarineMax. “We offer everything from financing and insurance solutions, exclusive events and educational programs to boating technology solutions and service and maintenance.” And that also includes getting your boat ready for winter.
“Your boat is a valuable investment, and we get that,” says Kayla. “Knowing how to winterize a boat is one thing, but performing all the necessary tasks is an entirely different scenario. We have the right people and the right tools to get the job done: factory-trained expert certified technicians, fully licensed and insured facilities, state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies, genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, and we’re backed by a nationwide network.”
To ensure your boat is ready to go for the next boating season, Kayla recommends scheduling maintenance, repairs, or upgrades now. “By addressing these needs at the end of the season, you avoid missing out on valuable time on the water when warmer weather returns.”
The first task before tucking your boat in for the winter? An oil change. “Getting an oil change now is an important maintenance task to include before winterizing your boat,” advises Kayla. “Old oil can cause issues such as engine corrosion and increased wear. Over time, used oil can accumulate contaminants that, if left in the engine during storage, may lead to internal damage. Fresh oil helps to protect engine components and ensure a smooth start to the next boating season.”
Water’s great in the summer, but it definitely isn’t your boat’s best friend when winter rolls around. Water expands when it freezes, which can cause cracks, corrosion, mold, and damage to vital components such as the engine, hoses, battery, and wiring. MarineMax’s winterization services prevent all of these issues and also help catch any other problems that might be exacerbated by not addressing them before the cold weather hits.
Along with winterizing your boat, proper storage is a crucial factor in keeping your vessel in good shape. “We also offer Boat Yard Storage,” says Kayla. “In our boat yard, your boat will remain safe and secure and is easily accessible. We shrink wrap every boat to protect it from all of the crazy Minnesota elements!”
“On the other side of winter, our Spring Recommissioning services can help ensure your boat is ready for the summer months. Our team handles everything from engine checks to detailing, offering the very best repair, restoration, and maintenance services. We make it a hassle-free experience so your boat will be in top condition and you can focus on enjoying the water.”
While boating season is winding down, Kayla shares that now is the prime time to check out new boat models. “The end of the year is an excellent time to explore new boat models as dealerships begin to phase out older models to make way for the latest releases. Whether you’re interested in upgrading or customizing a new boat, now’s the perfect time to start the process.”
With days on the water getting shorter, now is the time to make sure your boat gets some TLC before winter arrives, so you can enjoy smooth sailing next season. Check out marinemax.com to learn more about their winterization services and schedule your appointment.
Your boat is a valuable investment, and we get that. Knowing how to winterize a boat is one thing, but performing all the necessary tasks is an entirely different scenario.