The right time
Most boats go into winter storage between September and November and come back between March and May. In these weeks cranes, slipways and transport are in demand. The earlier you enquire, the more likely you are to get your preferred date.
Agreeing details with the storage yard
- On which days and at what times does the yard accept boats?
- Is the boat moved there by crane, forklift or via a slipway?
- Who is the contact on site on the day of handover?
- What is access like for a car with a boat trailer?
On request we settle these points directly with the yard.
Preparing the boat for the road
- Remove loose items from deck or secure them below, and stow cushions and fenders.
- Fold down or remove the bimini, sprayhood, aerials and folding arches.
- A cover must be fastened so it can withstand the journey. We decide, based on its condition, whether it can stay on the boat during the trip.
- Empty the tanks as far as possible, tilt up and secure the outboard or drive, and switch off the battery master switch.
Also agree who winterises the boat, meaning engine, fresh water and holding tank. This is usually done by the boatyard or storage yard, before or after transport.
Hauling out at the berth
If your boat is still in the water, on request we haul it out at a suitable slipway and take it straight to storage. If wind, waves or water level do not allow this safely, we postpone. Slipway and harbour fees are charged at cost.
Planning both trips together
You can request the autumn and spring trips together and have one contact for both. The handover report from the autumn is available again in spring, so you can compare the condition at a glance.
How much does the trip to winter storage cost?
We charge per kilometre of the route from the berth to the storage yard: €2.00 net on your own trailer, €2.75 net on ours. An example for 60 km:
| Option | 60 km, net | Incl. 19% VAT |
|---|---|---|
| On your trailer | €120 | €142.80 |
| On our trailer | €165 | €196.35 |
Launching or hauling out and any fees are extra. You can work out your estimate with the price calculator.
Checklist
- Enquire early, ideally in summer
- Yard opening times and access agreed
- Winterisation agreed with boatyard or storage yard
- Loose items secured, superstructures folded down
- Cover secured for the road or removed
- Return trip in spring planned right away