3 May 2020

10 things to do when leaving your boat moored

By Sonia Hook Senior Marketing Executive

The fact is your boat is possibly at greater risk when moored than when you’re out in open water. So there are a number of essential jobs to do to minimise the risk.

  1. The minimum number of lines you should use to moor to a floating pontoon is 4 – a bow line, a stern line and two spring lines fore and aft.
  2. In tidal waters your lines will need to be long enough to allow for the rise and fall of tide – or for a sudden rise in water level in rivers or marinas prone to flooding.
  3. Make sure that any valves and seacocks excluding the cockpit drains have been firmly closed.
  4. Keep the battery fully charged so that the automatic bilge pump can continue to function as and when required.
  5. Use a proper cover that fits snugly to protect your boat from the worst of the weather.
  6. Grease all parts that require it.
  7. Check and top up anti-freeze if you are going to leave your boat out in the winter.
  8. Use special mould/mildew sachets to prevent the boat acquiring unpleasant smells and to reduce clean up time when you intend using the boat again.
  9. Take steps to avoid water build-up in any areas of the craft, also check for debris that could block cockpit drains.
  10. It’s important that your boat is checked regularly if moored for a long period – and also that your insurance is kept up to date.

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