Getting Your Boat Ready this Spring

Getting your boat ready for spring involves a thorough inspection and maintenance process to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season. Here’s a summarized checklist based on the guidelines from BoatUS and Discover Boating:

1. De-winterize: If you winterize your boat, start with a de-winterization. You can use our De-winterization Checklist^[1] to get this done.
2. Fuel System: Inspect for leaks or damage, focusing on fuel hoses, connections, and tank surfaces. Check for softness, brittleness, or cracking in fuel hoses and ensure that all components are properly secured.
3. Belts, Cables, and Hoses: These can become brittle and crack during winter storage. Belts should fit tightly around pulleys, and you should check for any cracks or swells in the throttle, shift, and steering control cables.
4. Electrical System: Examine all connections for cleanliness and tightness. Remove and clean any corroded terminals. Charge your battery and ensure it can hold a charge. Regular inspections by a qualified technician are recommended.
5. Fluid Levels: Check engine oil, power steering, power trim reservoirs, and coolant levels. Change engine oil, oil filter, and drive lubricants if not done before winterizing.
6. Propellers and Hulls: Inspect propellers for damage like dings, pitting, and cracks, and ensure they are secured properly. Check the hull for blisters, distortions, and cracks, and clean it with an environmentally safe solution. Ensure the drain plug is securely in place.
7. Safety Gear: Ensure life jackets are in good condition and adequate for all passengers. Check that fire extinguishers are correctly classified, fully charged, and properly stowed. Install and test carbon monoxide detectors in enclosed areas. Consider having an EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) for emergencies and take advantage of safety inspections offered by maritime authorities.

These Spring inspections often result in discovering overly worn or broken items.  Be sure to do your spring inspections well ahead of your first outing. Don’t let necessary repairs or replacements delay your return to the water this Spring.

Remember, this checklist is a guideline, and it’s important to tailor it to your specific boat and requirements. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can help prevent problems and ensure a safe boating season.

1. Ashby M.De-winterization Checklist [Internet]. MariCorp. Available from: De-Winterization Checklist

Related Safety Articles:

• Springtime Boat Safety Checklist
• Operational Marina Safety Planning
• Choosing A Life Jacket – The First Step to Boating Safety