08.04.2025
Spring on board: tips for preparing your boat for spring - from Bavaria Yachts
Spring on board: tips for getting your boat ready for spring- from Bavaria Yachts
The days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising - high time to bring your boat out of hibernation. To ensure a smooth start to the season, we have put together some tips for winterising your boat. Whether sailing or motor yacht - these steps will give you the best possible start to the season.
Enjoy reading!
Standard checklist - the nuts and bolts of winterising. These points should be part of the standard procedure.
Hull and deck: Visual inspection Start with a thorough inspection of the hull for cracks or damage to the antifouling. The deck should also be inspected for loose fittings or gelcoat damage.
Engine & drive: Get ready to go Change the engine oil, check the oil filter and inspect the impeller. Check the fuel lines for cracks and leaks. Don't forget to check the zinc anodes and the on-board outlets.
Electrics & batteries: Check voltage Fully charge the batteries, check the on-board electronics for proper functioning and check all cable connections for corrosion or breakage. Navigation lights, bilge pumps and radio system should now be ready for use again.
Fresh water & waste water system: Flush the entire water system, check hoses and seals and disinfect the fresh water tank. Replace seals if necessary - our partner SVB can help with a wide range of original BAVARIA spare parts.
Check safety equipment: Fire extinguishers, life jackets, signalling equipment - check everything, update and replace if necessary. Also pay attention to the expiry date of distress signalling equipment!
Polishing & sealing to maintain value: Treat your yacht to a professional polish and sealant - this not only protects against UV rays and salt water, but also gives your boat a new shine.
Professional tips direct from the Bavaria Yachts shipyard. Many long-time sailors and boat enthusiasts work at the shipyard. These tips come directly from our experts at the shipyard.
WD-40 for fittings: Apply a light coat to all hinges, winches, slides and locks - not only protects against corrosion, but also keeps everything running smoothly.
Sails & rigging professional check: A professional rigging check is particularly worthwhile after a long period of time: wire ropes, shroud tensioners, pulleys and blocks should be checked by a specialist company. The sails should also be checked for UV damage and the seams checked.
Tool check: After winter work on the boat, there is often a wild mess in the toolbox. Take your time to sort through everything and replace with new tools if necessary. This saves you having to search for something in a hurry.
Vinegar against odours: Place a bowl of vinegar in the boat before the first trip - this neutralises musty winter odours in the interior in a natural way. Fragrance dispensers usually only mask odours.
Software updates & maps: Check whether updates are available for electronic navigation systems. Map material should also be up to date - an absolute must, especially with digital nautical charts.
Have the gas system checked: If you have a gas system on board: Only a professional gas check offers the necessary safety. Schedule an appointment in good time - many harbours and shipyards offer this service in the spring.
Professionally adjust the drive train: Small imbalances or incorrectly adjusted shaft systems can cause major damage in the long term. Have the shaft, propeller and bearings aligned and checked by a specialised company.
Our final conclusion:
With good preparation and the right expertise, you can lay the foundations for relaxed and safe cruises. Pay attention to the basics when winterising and carry out everything conscientiously. Would you prefer to leave the winterising to a professional? Use our dealer search to find someone near you who can do the winterising for you. To the dealer search.
If you are missing spare parts or accessories, we recommend our partner SVB - there you will find everything you need for the spring check of your Bavaria yacht.
We wish you a good season and always safe trips!
Your Bavaria Yachts Team