Yacht Winterization and Pre-Season Preparation Services

When outboard engines are left tilted in the down position, they must be drained of all water to prevent condensation. Covering or enclosing the engine under a tarp also helps with ventilation. 

• Protect the engine’s internals from corrosion during storage. 
• Modern outboard engines are typically “fogged” through an easier process than in the past. 
• Some engines offer a protection layer that can be mixed into fuel, activated through the outboard’s control system by selecting winterize mode. 
• Each manufacturer has its own procedure, so consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. 

One final tip: change your lower unit and powerhead oil and inspect for water intrusion. Store your yacht with fresh fluids.

Stern drives are more complex than outboard engines because water must be removed from both the block and the drive unit. Antifreeze may need to circulate through the system to ensure adequate protection. 

Differences between makes and models can be significant, so consult your owner’s manual. 

• Remove block plugs to drain the engine and eliminate sediment buildup 
• Inspect exposed parts like hoses and clamps to ensure everything functions properly 
• Bring the engine to operating temperature before fogging to “cook” out any remaining moisture 
• Change oil for engine longevity 

Inboard treatments are similar to stern drives but without a drive system. They typically involve opening petcocks and removing plugs to drain the system, then introducing antifreeze. 

• If your yacht remains in the water during winter, close the intake seacock and remove the exhaust hose, submerging the end in a bucket of environmentally safe antifreeze 
• Ensure the engine reaches operating temperature before running antifreeze through to prevent blocked cooling passages 
• Perform a visual inspection, fogging, and oil change before winter

All gas-powered engines require individualized care. 

• Add a quality fuel-stabilizing additive 
• Ethanol-blended fuel can become unstable and prone to separation during storage, leading to problems in spring 
• After adding the additive, run the engine to distribute it through the entire system 
• Change all engine filters and separators—always replace the canister rather than reusing it to prevent debris from entering other components 

• Any freshwater system, including sinks and tanks, must be completely drained before adding non-toxic antifreeze 
• Open all faucets and run them until the fresh water tank is dry 
• Add antifreeze to the system, then open the faucet farthest from the tank until antifreeze appears 
• If you have a water heater, ensure both hot and cold faucets draw antifreeze through, or bypass and drain separately 
• Pump out holding tanks and ensure antifreeze flows through them 

• Clean both the hull and deck thoroughly, scrubbing away any dirt or growth 
• Identify cracks or other damage and make necessary repairs 
• Apply a fresh coat of wax to protect exterior surfaces 
• If storing on a trailer, ensure wheels are properly tightened and free of cracks 
• Check lights and tires to ensure they are in good working order