It’s already slowing down in our local TowBoatU.S. office. With the bad weather and water conditions in September, some have put away their boats early and will miss the best of fall scenery and crisp days. So, what’s an old salt supposed to do until spring?
Shop – The Fall Annapolis Boat Shows run for two weeks in October and both the Power, October 4-8, and Sail, October 11-14, shows are a great way to look at the latest boat models and dream big. It’s also the easiest way to see the latest boat gadgets, equipment, electronics and to renew your BoatU.S. towing. This year’s BoatUS show special for new or renewal memberships is $50 off. Show details can be found at annapolisboatshows.com. Come visit us at the BoatUS Barge in front of the Annapolis Fleet Reserve Club.
Clean – Even though the boat is on the trailer or on the hard don’t ignore the scum line and barnacles. Take the time now to clean your baby inside and out. Remove gear, batteries, and removeable cushions that may mildew. Apply a light film of spray-on furniture polish to the clean, dry cushions and then wipe with a clean cloth. This should help guard against stains and preserve the life of your boat’s upholstery. Store them vertical so that if they do get damp they will drain and dry faster. Be sure to scrub the salt away to keep your windows and other surfaces from staining or corroding. And above all, once its covered check on it after a rain or snow event. Pooling water or heavy snow can wreak havoc with a cover and sink a boat that’s still in the water.
Winterize -Even though the Farmer’s Almanac is calling for slightly milder temperatures for the Mid-Atlantic this winter, you still have to winterize. FYI: If your boat sinks over the winter and you didn’t correctly winterize, some insurance companies may not cover the claim. If you can get it out of the water, please do. But if the boat is going to sit in the water take extra precautions and check on it often. Ever wonder what TowBoatU.S. Captains do all winter long? We raise sunken boats. There is a great winterization checklist from BoatU.S. at boatus.com/seaworthy/winter/winterworksheet.pdf And, don’t forget BoatU.S. members always qualify for double rewards at West Marine so when stocking up or getting ready to winterize take advantage of your membership benefits.
Learn – Continue your boating education by visiting the BoatU.S. and BoatU.S. Foundation websites. If you think you know it all then you probably should sign up for some of the classes, too… Hope not all of you have put away the boats yet and can enjoy a few more days of Fall boating. See you out on the water. As always, happy to help!
