Whether you're new to boating or have been cruising Seabrook’s Galveston Bay for years, docking remains one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the experience. Even seasoned captains occasionally fumble—but most mistakes are avoidable with a little know‑how. Here are the seven most common docking missteps and how to avoid them.

Whether you're new to boating or have been cruising Seabrook’s Galveston Bay for years, docking remains one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the experience. Even seasoned captains occasionally fumble—but most mistakes are avoidable with a little know‑how. Here are the seven most common docking missteps and how to avoid them.

As summer weekends become busy at our Seabrook marina, it’s essential to follow basic etiquette, ensuring our community remains safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.

Hurricane Barry was a nice little test for all of us to be READY.

Weather Channel: 24 named storms, 11 hurricanes, 6 major hurricanes.

Tropical Storm Risk: 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, 5 major hurricanes.

Long-term average, according to the National Hurricane Center: 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, 3 major hurricanes.

[Weather Channel]

The peak of the season is in September and we can still experience a hurricane up to November.

We have amazing tenants and here are some ideas for the community:

• Get to know your dock mates; exchange telephone numbers and agree to help each other.
• Rehearse your mooring plan with everyone who may be involved.
• Buy your extra line, chafe gear and fenders NOW so you will be prepared.  A hurricane can develop very quickly.

ADVANCE HURRICANE PLANNING CHECKLIST

1. Primary Mooring Lines – Check size, condition, and length.
2. Spring Lines – Check size, condition, and length.
3. Check vessel cleat size to be sure primary/spring lines will fit on one cleat.
4. Chafe gear – use clear vinyl, water hose or leather (punch a hole at each end of the hose to secure it to the line with a smaller line to avoid sliding).
5. Rehearse storm mooring procedures.
6. Plan your evacuation route.
7. Update insurance coverage and locate vessel papers.
8. Photograph your vessel, inside and out, in case of a possible insurance claim.

Here are some more articles about hurricanes and how we can prepare.

2024 NOAA Hurricane prediction

9 Tips for Hurricane Season

By international agreement, tropical cyclone is the general term for all cyclonic circulations originating over tropical waters, classified by form and intensity as follows:

Tropical Disturbance:

Rotary circulation slight or absent at the surface, but sometimes better developed aloft, no closed isobars (lines of equal atmospheric pressure) and no strong winds, a common phenomenon in the tropics.

Tropical Depression:

One or more closed isobars and some rotary circulation at surface, highest wind speed 39 miles per hour (34 knots).

Tropical Storm:

Closed isobars, distinct rotary circulation, highest wind speed of 74 miles per hour (34-63 knots).

Hurricane:

Closed isobars, strong and very pronounced rotary circulation, wind speed of 74 miles per hour (64 knots) or more

CONDITION 4 (Green):

This condition shall automatically go into effect upon such occurrences as the beginning of the hurricane season (June 1 of each year, remaining in effect until November 30 of each year); or other general conditions as determined by the City Manager.

CONDITION 3 (Yellow):

This condition exists when the course of the hurricane is established, and the National Weather Service predicts the possibility of landfall within 36 hours and/or is within 100 miles of Houston.

CONDITION 2 (Orange):

This condition shall be declared by the Mayor or the City Manager when the National Weather Service predicts hurricane landfall within 24 hours and is close enough to Houston to cause damaging winds, high tides and storm surge.

CONDITION 1 (Red):
This condition shall be declared by the Mayor or City Manager when hurricane landfall is within 12 hours or less and damaging tides or hurricane force winds are imminent.

Do you know what to do before and after a hurricane?

Here are some essential tips what to do before and after a hurricane, including a checklist for both occurrences. You also need to make sure your boat is secure. Check out Seabrook Marina Hurricane tips and hurricane preparedness for your boat.

We urge you to plan for this upcoming hurricane season. You should also be reminded that all official emergency information will be broadcast on the Official Emergency Broadcast Station, which is KTRH 740 AM.

1. ENTER EACH HURRICANE SEASON PREPARED. Every June through November, recheck your supply of boards, tools, batteries, nonperishable foods, and the other equipment you will need if a hurricane strikes your town.

2. WHEN YOU HEAR THE FIRST TROPICAL CYCLONE ADVISORY, listen for future messages. This will prepare you for a hurricane emergency well in advance of the issuance of watches and warnings.

3. WHEN YOUR AREA IS COVERED BY A HURRICANE WATCH, continue normal activities, staying tuned to radio or television for all National Weather Service advisories. Remember, a hurricane watch means possible danger within 24 hours; if the danger materializes, a hurricane warning will be issued.

MEANWHILE, KEEP ALERT. IGNORE RUMORS.

4. WHEN YOUR AREA RECEIVES A HURRICANE WARNING, PLAN YOUR TIME before the storm arrives and avoid the last-minute hurry which leaves you marooned or unprepared.

• KEEP CALM until the emergency has ended.
• LEAVE LOW-LYING AREAS that may be swept by high tides or storm waves.
• LEAVE MOBILE HOMES for more substantial shelter. They are particularly vulnerable to damage during strong winds. Damage can be minimized by securing mobile homes with heavy cables anchored in concrete footing.
• MOOR YOUR BOAT SECURELY before the storm arrives, or evacuate it to a designated safe area. When your boat is moored, leave it, and don't return once the wind and waves are up.
• BOARD UP WINDOWS or protect them with storm shutters. Danger to small windows is mainly from wind-driven debris. Larger windows may be broken by wind pressure.
• SECURE OUTDOOR OBJECTS that might be blown away or uprooted. Garbage cans, garden tools, toys, signs, porch furniture, and a number of other harmless items become missiles of destruction in hurricane winds. Anchor them or store them inside before the storm strikes.
• STORE DRINKING WATER in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils. YOUR TOWN'S WATER SUPPLY MAY BE CONTAMINATED BY FLOODING OR DAMAGED BY HURRICANE FLOODS.
• CHECK YOUR BATTERY-POWERED EQUIPMENT. Your radio may be your only link with the world outside the hurricane, and emergency cooking facilities, lights, and flashlights will be essential if utilities are interrupted.
• KEEP YOUR CAR FUELED. Service stations may be inoperable for several days after the storm strikes, due to flooding or interrupted electrical power.
• STAY AT HOME, if your home is sturdy and on high ground; if it is not, move to a designated shelter and stay there until the storm is over.
• REMAIN INDOORS DURING THE HURRICANE. Travel is extremely dangerous when winds and tides are whipping through your area.
• MONITOR THE STORM'S POSITION through National Weather Service advisories.
• BEWARE OF THE EYE OF THE HURRICANE. If the calm storm center passes directly overhead, there will be a lull in the wind lasting from a few minutes to half an hour or more. Stay in a safe place UNLESS emergency repairs are absolutely necessary. But remember, at the OTHER SIDE OF THE EYE, the winds rise very rapidly to hurricane force, and come from the opposite direction.

5. WHEN THE HURRICANE HAS PASSED, continue to take precautions.

• SEEK NECESSARY MEDICAL CARE AT RED CROSS disaster stations or hospitals.
• STAY OUT OF DISASTER AREAS. Unless you are qualified to help, your presence might hamper first-aid and rescue work.
• DRIVE CAREFULLY along debris-filled streets. Roads may be undermined and may collapse under the weight of a car. Slides along cliffs are also a hazard.
• AVOID LOOSE OR DANGLING WIRES, and report them immediately to your power company or the nearest law enforcement officer.
• REPORT BROKEN SEWER OR WATER MAINS to the water department.
• PREVENT FIRES. Lower water pressure may make fire fighting difficult.
• CHECK REFRIGERATED FOOD for spoilage if power has been off during the storm.
• REMEMBER THAT HURRICANES MOVING INLAND CAN CAUSE SEVERE FLOODING. STAY AWAY FROM RIVER BANKS AND STREAMS.

NOTE: This information is not intended to be used to make life or death decisions. As you know, if you have studied past hurricanes, they seldom maintain constant course and speed. Please don't use this program to predict a storm's path. Instead, please follow the advice of your local authorities. It's always better to be safe than sorry. The Seabrook Marina wants to keep you around as a customer for a long time!

USEFUL LINKS

NOAA Weather Radio

University of Florida IFAS publication "Hurricane Preparedness for Boat Owners" (PDF)

A Boater's Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes by BoatUS (PDF)

5 Tips For Storm Coverage For Your Boat

Download your own list -  '5 Essential Hurricane Tips'

Takeaway: “Be prepared”
Boy Scouts of America Motto

Hurricane advisories will help save your life...... but you must help.

More Information about Hurricanes to read:

from Boating Magazine

1. Storm surge causes the most damage to boats, not wind. Make sure to slack your lines.

2. Because of storm surge boats fare better at marinas with floating docks and tall pilings compared to fixed docks, or floats and short pilings.

3. Whether battening down ashore or afloat, reduce windage by lowering antennas and removing canvas.

4. Make sure your batteries are charged—especially if you don’t have a generator that they will run the bilge pumps. Wiring in extras in parallel isn’t a bad idea, since if power goes out, so does shore power.

5. Double your dock lines, leaving the second set a bit slack of the first. This way, if the first chafes through, the doublers will be fresh for the duration.

6. Boats stored on land should be lashed to anchors in the ground, not just blocked up or left on a trailer.

7. Check your insurance policy now: Make sure you have “named storm coverage”—and be sure ask what happens if a storm rolls through without a name.

8. Act early. Hauling, tying down, moving to a hurricane hole at the last minute ensures some things won't get done.

9. Be wary of flotsam and debris lurking in the water following a storm.

10. Hurricane advisories will help save your life...... but you must help & be prepared.

Takeaway: “Be prepared”
Boy Scouts of America Motto

Do you know your Zip Zone Evacuation map?

Remember Hurricane Rita and the evacuation mess? After Hurricane Rita, state and local officials took all the written plans and converted them to easy to understand maps. Now we will have a partial or phased evacuation based on storm surge risk. Check the Zip Zone Evacuation Map to see which zone you are based. And here is a Map to print and have ready in your emergency kit.

Evacuation route maps from the Texas coast, including from Beaumont, Corpus Christi, Houston, Pharr and Yoakum, are available.

Hurricane Preparedness in Seabrook Marina
 And check out More Tips how to prepare for a hurricane at the bottom of the page.

USEFUL LINKS

Town of Seabrook Hurricane Preparedness Plan

Town of Seabrook Evacuation Plan

Code Red - Local Response Team Notification

University of Florida IFAS publication "Hurricane Preparedness for Boat Owners"

A Boater's Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes by BoatUS

Preparing for Hurricane Severe Weather Checklist for Boaters issued by flseagrant.org

Download your own list -  '5 Essential Hurricane Tips'

Did you know?

Several states, including Florida, Texas, and others, host special tax-free holidays before the onset of hurricane season. These events provide an opportunity to purchase emergency supplies without paying state sales tax.  Monitoring and taking advantage of these tax-free periods can help reduce the financial burden of hurricane preparedness.  ~ Sunshine Preppers

Creating a hurricane plan is an important step in protecting your home and family during hurricane season. Hurricanes can be devastating, with strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges that can cause significant damage. A well-designed hurricane plan can help you prepare for these events and minimize the impact on your life. Here are some tips on how to create a hurricane plan.

Determine your risk can be done by researching the history of hurricanes in your area and consulting with local emergency management officials.

This information will help you understand the potential impact of a hurricane on your home and community. Here is information from NOAA about hurricane patterns - August 2023.

Due to current ocean and atmospheric conditions, such as record-warm sea surface temperatures, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center—a division of the National Weather Service—has increased their prediction for the ongoing 2023 Atlantic hurricane season to an “above normal” level of activity from a “near normal” level with their most recent update. 

The outlook now includes a 70% chance of 14-21 named storms, of which 6-11 could become hurricanes, and 2-5 could become major hurricanes. The updated outlook also states that current conditions are likely to counterbalance the usually limiting atmospheric conditions associated with the ongoing El Niño event. 

Although cyclone formation can occur any time of the year, the Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, when most tropical cyclones tend to form in the Atlantic. 

Ideas for your Emergency Hurricane Plan:

1. Create an Emergency Kit: As part of your hurricane plan, create an emergency kit. This should include items such as food, water, first aid supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a radio. Keep your emergency kit in a secure and easily accessible location.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan: If you live in an area that is at high risk for hurricanes, develop an evacuation plan. Identify evacuation routes, and make arrangements for transportation and lodging. Discuss your plan with your family, and make sure everyone understands what they need to do in the event of an evacuation.

3. Secure Your Home: Before a hurricane, secure your home by boarding up windows and doors, and securing loose objects outside. If you have a garage, park your car inside and disconnect the garage door opener to prevent damage from high winds. It is also a good idea to have your roof inspected and repaired if necessary.

4. Protect Important Documents: Protect important documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and financial records, by storing them in a secure and waterproof location. Consider making digital copies of important documents and storing them in a secure online location.

5. Keep Your Insurance Up to Date: Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date and covers damage from hurricanes. Review your policy to ensure that it provides adequate coverage for your home and belongings.

6. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest weather conditions by monitoring local news and weather reports. Follow the instructions of local authorities, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

7. Plan for Power Outages: Power outages are common during hurricanes, so it is important to plan for them. Have backup generators or alternative sources of power available, and stock up on batteries and flashlights.

8. Make Plans for Pets: If you have pets, make plans for their care during a hurricane. Identify pet-friendly shelters and hotels, and make arrangements for their transportation and care.

9. Practice Your Plan: Once you have created your hurricane plan, practice it with your family. This will help everyone understand what they need to do in the event of a hurricane, and will ensure that everyone is prepared.

Creating a hurricane plan is an important step in protecting your home and family during hurricane season. By following these tips, you can create a comprehensive hurricane plan that will help you prepare for and respond to hurricanes in your area. Remember to stay informed and be prepared, and always put safety first.

Here are some great links to more information:

HOW TO STAY PLUGGED IN DURING A POWER OUTAGES

ESSENTIAL HURRICANE TIPS FOR HURRICANE SEASON 2023

14 TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR BOAT DURING HURRICANE SEASON IN 2023

Evacuation route maps from the Texas coast, including from Beaumont, Corpus Christi, Houston, Pharr and Yoakum, are available.

Hurricane Preparedness in Seabrook Marina
 And check out More Tips how to prepare for a hurricane at the bottom of the page.

USEFUL LINKS

Town of Seabrook Hurricane Preparedness Plan

Town of Seabrook Evacuation Plan

Code Red - Local Response Team Notification

University of Florida IFAS publication "Hurricane Preparedness for Boat Owners"

A Boater's Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes by BoatUS

Preparing for Hurricane Severe Weather Checklist for Boaters issued by flseagrant.org

Download your own list -  '5 Essential Hurricane Tips'

Fall and winter maintenance is never fun because it indicates that summer is over. However, fall and winter can bring some of the most beautiful days on the water that is not only enjoyable but perfect for boating activities. So don’t abandon your boat now that the weather is less than perfect.

There are several things you need to do to prepare your boat for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Here are some tips to help make sure your boat is in tip-top shape for when you head out onto the water in the spring.

What do you need to do to get your boat ready for fall and winter?

Probably the first thing to consider is checking your boat's bottom hull for barnacles and the paint job with a Quick Haul. This means your boat will stay in the hoist and sling for cleaning and checking without a major expense of the boat standing in the boatyard.

Here is a list of things to check to get your boat ready.

1. FUEL SYSTEM CORROSION

Winter is a good time for your fuel system to be included in your regular inspection. Check the fuel system for corrosion and leaks around the fuel system causing corrosion. This is especially necessary for gasoline. Some less expensive fuel tank vent fittings are constructed of inferior material, lending to early corrosion and failure. Inspect the vent fittings as well as the vent hose and clamps. If the fitting is blistered or deteriorated in any way, remove it from the vessel for closer inspection, or replace it.

2. HULL & TOPSIDES

Winter is an excellent time to deal with the hull and topsides of your boat. Maintain the longevity of your color, whether gel coat or paint you need to wax and compound your hull to stave off the effects of oxidation, UV damage, and the harsh marine environment.

3. PROPS

The first thing to determine is whether your props need rehab or can you clean them yourself. This is a perfect off-season job.

If your props need rehab, make arrangements to have your props delivered back to you in early or mid-spring. This will save you time, plus you will be able to avoid last-minute problems, such as finding out that the prop is beyond rehab and needs to be replaced. Most marinas provide this service through other shops that service props full time. Check out our contractors for Seabrook Shipyard.
When you get them back they are usually painted and ready to go. Brass props are shiny and ready for installation.

If your props just need cleaning, apply several clear coats of antifouling. This will help reduce the growth of barnacles, both for freshwater boating as well as saltwater boating. Keeping your props free of foreign growth will keep your props operating at maximum performance.

Great a quite comprehensive checklist from Boat Planet:

These next steps should be handled by your mechanic as part of a comprehensive winterization service:

• Change the fuel filters and water separator
• Check the fuel line and bulb and replace if needed
• Change the oil; do not put this off until spring, as you need to eliminate residual acids and moisture in the system that can damage your engine if left unattended over the winter
• Replace the oil filter
• Fog the engine
• Replace the water impeller; this should be done at least once a year
• Flush the raw-water system, then fill with fresh antifreeze rated for your winter climate
• Freshwater cooling systems need to have their coolant level topped up
• Replace plugs
• Change transmission fluid, if applicable
• Check the wires and rotor cap
• Check the belts and adjust tension as needed
• Check the hoses for cracks, bulges, or soft spots and replace as needed
• Check the hose clamps for corrosion or wear and replace as needed
• Check the shift/throttle cables and tension, then lubricate the cables and linkage
• Check the sacrificial anodes and replace if more than 50 percent deteriorated
• Check the prop(s) for nicks and dents
• Grease the prop shaft and threads
• Remove the battery (top-up electrolyte level and recharge if necessary) and put on a marine trickle charger

Beyond the Engine

• After the engine work is done, it makes sense for the service shop to do the following checklist items while they are in the boat:
• Flush the bilge and add antifreeze
• Fill the freshwater system and hot water heater with non-toxic propylene glycol antifreeze
• Disconnect the hot-water heater
• Pump out the holding tank and add antifreeze to the head
• Spray down the electronics connectors with an anti-corrosion lubricant, especially where the electronics will be removed for the winter (these connectors are particularly vulnerable to winter corrosion)
• Remove the bulbs from your navigation and running lights and spray the sockets with an anti-corrosion lubricant

Quick Do-It-Yourself

Even if you have professionals do everything else, you will need to remove valuables, electronics, linens, PFDs, fire extinguishers, flares, fenders, and other loose items. Sort them all in neatly labeled boxes for easy unpacking in the spring.

While you are there:

• Vacuum cushions and mattress and set them upright to allow airflow during storage
• Scrub the refrigerator and freezer to avoid mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors in the spring
• Set out No Damp Dehumidifiers and an odor control product such as MDG Mold/Odor Control to eliminate mold, mildew, and associated smells
• Oil the hinges and door latches so they will work smoothly next spring
• Lubricate all snaps and zippers, whether the canvas is left on over the winter or not
• Almost Done

After all, the greasy work has been completed and you have gotten everything you should out of the cabin, it is time for one final cleaning. Depending on the condition of the boat, you may opt to call in a detailer to make quick work of this tedious process:

Boat Detailing

• Do a complete wash down of the boat, using specialty cleaners to remove rust stains, tree sap, water runoff, and so forth on fiberglass; these stains can become permanent by spring
• Wax the hull and topsides, or at least any topside that will be exposed during the coming months
• If you notice nicks and wear in the boat paint, get them fixed to keep the paint from disintegrating further
• If you are going to leave your canvas up as a boat cover, protect the Isinglass against damage with a specialty protectant; you should do this on a monthly basis

Check our list of on-site contractors in Seabrook Marina Repair Yard - Contractor List

Here is a checklist for your lines to keep your boat safely moored! Read more...

References:

https://boatplanet.com/the-captains-blog/fall-maintenance-checklist-preparing-your-boat-for-winter

The size and length of a boat's mooring lines are important factors to consider when outfitting a boat. 

How many dock lines do you need?

A properly outfitted boat should have at least six dock lines on hand. Two (each) bow and stern lines and two spring lines. The length of the lines depends upon how and where you moor your boat.

What type and length of lines?

Docking lines, which are used to tie the boat to a dock, need to be long enough to reach from the boat to the dock and still have enough slack to allow for movement caused by tide, wind, and waves. Bow and stern lines should typically be at least 2/3 times the distance between the boat and the dock. Spring lines should be equal to your boat's length.

When it comes to the size of a boat's dock lines, it is important to choose a strong line to withstand the forces it will be subject to. The strength of a line is measured in breaking strength, which is the amount of force required to break the line. 

What types of boat lines to use for your boat

Use only 3-strand twisted or braided nylon (no polypropylene or manila).  Chafe gear – water hose, clear vinyl tubing, sewn-on leather (tape is ineffective).

1. Bowlines: Typically made of nylon or polyester, and sized according to the length of your boat. See table below.

2. Stern lines: Typically made of nylon or polyester, 

3. Spring lines: Typically made of nylon or polyester,

4. Fender line: Typically made of nylon or polypropylene, 

What size should your dock lines be during a storm?

In severe weather conditions, some people choose to use dock lines of a larger diameter, or even “double up” some of the lines. But notice that while making them stronger, this may decrease their cushioning effect, just when your dock and deck hardware need it the most. A better option may be to add additional dock lines secured to previously unused hardware and tie-off points. As always, good seamanship requires good judgment and analysis of every situation. Increased attention to dock line chafing gear is always prudent in severe weather.

MINIMUM MOORING LINE STANDARD

Yacht Size                                                         Primary Line Size                                                               Spring Line Size

(overall length)                                                          (diameter)                                                                           (diameter)

Up to 27 ft                                                                             3/8”                                                                                         3/8”

28 ft to 31 ft                                                                           1/2”                                                                                           1/2”

32 ft to 45 ft                                                                           5/8”                                                                                         1/2”

46 ft to 54 ft                                                                           3/4”                                                                                           3/4”

54 ft to 63 ft                                                                           7/8”                                                                                           7/8”

64 ft to 72 ft                                                                           1”                                                                                           1”

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines and the specific size and type of line may vary depending on the size and type of boat, as well as the intended use of the line. It is always best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer for the appropriate size and type of line for your specific boat.

REFERENCES:

Marina Life: https://www.marinalife.com/articles/dock-lines-smart-boater-marinalife

WestMarine: www.westmarine.com/west-advisor/Dock-Lines

In the University of Virginia School of Engineering laboratory, a series of tests were performed on nylon and polyester line (also known by its DuPont trade name, Dacron®)  - BoatUS: www.boatus.org/findings

Houston, we might have a problem!

We don't really get extremely cold in the Gulf Coast area, but we do have cold snaps. But in 2022 we had the first snow here in the marina since 1989! So maybe we need to be prepared just in case.

Here are some tips to winterize your boat.

Your first step in winterizing should be to make a checklist of all items that need to be accomplished. Check the owner's manual of both your boat and motor for the manufacturer's recommendations on winterization. If you are a new boat owner, perhaps you should employ the assistance of a friend with experience in winterizing or hire a professional to do the job.

Interiors for your boat

The fix here is to vent your boat cover for good airflow to minimize trapped moisture for small boats. But even big boats that are locked up for the winter, more than one boat owner has unzipped his boat in the spring only to find the interior looking like a science project with mold and mildew everywhere.  Mildew sprays are a big help, as are chemical dehumidifiers that pull excess moisture from the air.

• Open all drawers and lockers and clean them thoroughly.
• Turn cushions up on edge so that air is able to circulate around them or, better yet, bring them home to a climate-controlled area.
• Open and clean the refrigerator and freezer.
• To keep your boat dry and mildew-free you might want to install a dehumidifier or use some of the commercially available odor and moisture absorber products such as "No Damp," "Damp Away" or "Sportsman's Mate."

Fuel System and Engines

Water is the enemy when it comes to fuel supply and storage systems on boats. That’s especially true if yours is a gasoline-powered boat with ethanol-blended fuel in the tank. Diesel fuel comes with its own set of challenges. Add in wide ranges of winter temperatures and condensation becomes a problem.

Drain the Gear-Case Lubricant (and recycle it)

Clear, amber-colored lubricant means your gear-case seals are in good shape. Milky and sometimes lumpy oil means the seals need to be replaced. Tip: The time to do this is in the fall when marine mechanics are less busy and sometimes willing to offer special prices for winter work. 

Now is a good time to change fuel filters as well, especially if you have a stand-alone water/fuel separator filter. Check your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for onboard fuel filters on your inboard and/or outboard engines.

Change the Oil for your Boat

Change engine oil to eliminate moisture and prevent corrosion. If you don't, moisture can cause excessive wear, which can lead to loss of power, poor fuel economy and possible engine failure. Tip: Some mechanics change the oil both in the fall and at spring breakout on the theory that the engine oil needs to be changed at the end of the summer and after suffering the ravages of winter because moisture may again accumulate in the oil.

Fuel Treatment for your Boat

Treat your boat's fuel with a stabilizer. Pennzoil Fuel Stabilizer, PRI-G and Stabil are ideal products for this job. After adding it to the fuel, run the engine for 10 minutes or so to be sure stabilized fuel circulates throughout the engine. If you don't stabilize the fuel, carburetors and fuel injectors can be clogged with varnish deposits that ruin fuel systems. 

Batteries for your Boat

Probably the worst thing you can do to your batteries is leaving them unattended and ignored in your boat all winter long. They should be on a trickle charge during this downtime, and if you don't have a solar charger or a plug at the boatyard and your boat isn't stored in the water the best place for your batteries is at home—either in the garage or basement—hooked up to a trickle charger. And don’t worry; Dr. Diehard says it’s perfectly fine to store today’s batteries on concrete.

Keep in mind that different battery types have different charging needs. For example, a conventional lead-acid battery has a much higher charging voltage tolerance than an absorbed glass matt (AGM) battery. Find out what’s best for your particular battery type and be sure to keep an appropriate trickle charger going on your batteries all winter.

If you need a more comprehensive explanation of battery maintenance needs—for all seasons and conditions—be sure to watch this Basic Boat Battery Check Up and Maintenance video.

Finally

After going through all these systems and processes, are we finally ready to put Mom's Mink to bed for the winter? We're close. Here are a few final winterizing tips to finish the job:

• Give it a scrub from top to bottom, inside and out. Why you may ask? Leaving filth and grime to sit all winter long can cause permanent damage to your boat’s finishes, inside and out.
• Organize and clean stowage compartments, lockers, and other areas that may have gotten dirty over the boating season. Not only will a clean boat greet you come spring, but this will also increase the chances you'll spot items that could cause a mess by leaking or freezing and bursting over the winter. Suntan lotion, bug repellent, or a stray can of soda are just a few of the items that you will regret leaving onboard.
• Don’t forget the bilge or mechanical spaces, either. These areas should be nice and clean as well as free from any standing water, which can freeze over the winter and cause damage in tight areas.
• Take off any gear that will fare better shoreside. Fishing rods and reels, safety equipment, electronics that are removable, clothing, and other gear will live a longer life if it isn’t exposed to the freeze-thaw cycle.

CALL US FOR A HAUL OUT!  REPAIR YARD:  281-474-2588

References:

Family Handy Man

Boats.com

USBoats.com

Boating Magazine

What safety equipment do you need for powerboats between 26 and 40 feet?

1. Title and Registration Numbers

Title and registration numbers are required.

2. Personal Flotation Devices

One US Coast Guard approved wearable device is required for each person on board. One US Coast Guard approved throwable device (Type IV) is required on board and readily accessible. Inflatable PFDs are authorized only when used according to the instructions on US Coast Guard approval labels.

Each wearable PFD should be readily accessible, in serviceable condition, and of the appropriate size for the intended user. Wearable devices should also be approved for the activity taking place and used according to the instructions on its label. Learn more about PFD fit and types.

3. Fire Extinguishers

Either of the following meets the fire extinguisher requirement:

• 2 US Coast Guard-approved type B-1 marine-grade fire extinguishers, OR
• 1 US Coast Guard-approved type B-2 marine-grade fire extinguisher

If a vessel has a fixed fire extinguishing system, that will affect the number and type of fire extinguishers required.

The fire extinguisher must:

• Be readily accessible.
• Be in condition for immediate and effective use at all times.

4. Visual Distress Signals

Visual distress signals that are US Coast Guard-approved for day and night use are required if operating in coastal waters of the state. Visual distress signals must be readily accessible, in working condition, and unexpired (if expiration date is shown).

5. Sound-Producing Device

One whistle, horn or other sound-producing device is required. The device must be capable of producing an efficient sound that can signal intentions and position in periods of reduced visibility.

6. Lights

US Coast Guard-approved red and green side lights and a white all-around light are required when not at dock. White lights shall be visible at a distance of at least two (2) miles. Colored lights shall be visible at a distance of at least one (1) mile. "Visible" when applied to lights means visible on dark nights with clear atmosphere.

The required navigation lights must be equipped as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2.

US Coast Guard-approved lights must be:

• serviceable,
• displayed from sunset to sunrise in all weather,
• displayed during restricted visibility, and
• visible all around the horizon.

Any other lights on the vessel:

• must not be exhibited in a way that may be mistaken for navigation lights;
• must not impair the visibility or distinctive characteristics of navigation lights; and
• must not interfere with the keeping of a proper lookout.

7. Ventilation

Ventilation systems are required of all vessels using liquid fuel that is volatile. Vessels that are of "open construction" are exempt. More information about ventilation requirements can be found in the Water Safety Act booklet.

8. Backfire Flame Arrestor

Backfire flame arrestors are required for gasoline engines installed in a vessel after April 25, 1940. Outboard motors are an exception to this requirement.

An acceptable means of backfire flame control must be suitably attached to the air intake with a flame tight connection. The device must be US Coast Guard-approved or comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards and be marked accordingly.

9. Exhaust Water Manifold

A motorboat must have an exhaust water manifold or a factory-type muffler installed on the engine.

10. Mirrors

A rearview mirror no less than four inches in width and height is required when towing a person.

A mirror is not required when towing a person if an observer is present who is:

• on board the motorboat,
• not the operator of the motorboat,
• 13 years of age or older, and
• acting in the capacity of an observer.

MORE INFORMATION:

POWERBOATS

 11 Required Safety Equipment For Powerboats 40 Feet but Less Than 65 Feet In Length

10 Required Safety Equipment For Powerboats 26 Feet but Less Than 40 Feet In Length

SAILBOATS

4 Required Safety EquipmentSailboats 26 Feet but Less Than 40 Feet In Length

4 Required Safety Equipment For Sailboats 40 Feet but Less Than 65 Feet In Length

Reference:

Powerboats 26 Feet but Less Than 40 Feet In Length: Required Safety Equipment