Winterizing Your Boat in a Northern Wet Slip

Many northern marinas haul every boat in October. Those that allow winter wet storage charge a separate winter rate (often 60–80% of summer monthly), require proof of working de-icers, and inspect setup before the freeze.

Bubblers pump warm bottom water up around the hull and are best in shallow slips. Ice eaters (Kasco, Power House) push horizontal warm-water columns and protect a larger area. Both run continuously through freezing weather, drawing 4–8 amps each — budget $80–$200/month in electricity.

Drain all raw-water systems and run RV antifreeze through the engine, generator, A/C, and head. Drain freshwater tanks. Add antifreeze to bilges and shower sumps. Pull the impeller if you'll be away for months.

A standard shrink wrap with a 2x4 ridge frame sheds snow; a flat or sagging wrap collects it and can crack canvas, bend stanchions, or crush hardtops. Inspect the wrap after every major snowfall.

Leave a multi-stage shore charger running on a quality marine charger. Disconnect parasitic loads. Check water in flooded batteries monthly. Don't rely on solar in northern latitudes between November and February.

Verify de-icers running. Confirm shore power live and charger active. Look for ice intrusion under the hull. Check lines for wear from ice cycles. Look for excessive snow on the wrap. Check bilge for water.