The winterisation of boats is a routine operation every autumn in Finland (and in other countries where boats need to be lifted from the water before the winter) and should ideally feature all regular repair and maintenance and checks.

When the boat is lifted, the tie-down straps must be placed under the hull, making sure that the boat remains horizontally during the lift. The boat must not be lifted by the bollards. Never let anyone underneath the boat while it is hanging in the air.

If the boat is not stored on a trailer during the winter, it is placed on trestles, and if stored outdoors, covered with a tarpaulin.

If you are using trestles, they must be sturdy and stable. The side supports keep the boat up, so you should have at least two pairs of them. Point loads should be avoided. The side supports must not be placed at the lift strakes. The weight should be evenly distributed on the supports, and they can be softened with cushions of some kind.

When the supporting is done properly, the boat is in balance and most of the weight rests on the keel. The boat must never be placed upside down on the ground. Instead, supports must be placed at regular intervals and air must be allowed to flow freely underneath.

If the outboard engine is still attached to the boat, it must be supported separately, and must not be left to hang in the air. Drain the cooling water from the engine as instructed in the maintenance manual.

If no suitable winter shelter is available, cover the boat with a tarpaulin. The tarpaulin must be tied up properly but not too tightly, as air must be allowed to circulate under tarpaulin and keep the boat dry and fresh.

If the tarpaulin is too tight, humidity may accumulate, resulting in mould and dankness. It is also advisable to prepare for a snow, water and ice load in advance. Snow will not be able to pile up on the tarpaulin if the pitch is steep enough, at least 90 degrees.

Check the condition of the hull and sand down any dents to allow any humidity that may have entered the laminate to dry. Repair the damage in the spring before launching the boat again.

The tarpaulin or its ropes may not come into contact with the boat surface, because as they flap and move, they rub on the gelcoat surface.