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How to Move and Store Your Boat for a Chicago Winter

On 1 May 2017
| No Comments
| Boat Maintenance
sailboat-winterization

As the weather gets colder, it is time for you to think about moving and winterizing any watercraft you have still on the water. To protect your investments, make sure that you consult the owner’s manual and your insurance policy to ensure you are following any guidelines laid out in case something unfortunate happens. Taking the time to protect and properly store your boat now will ensure its performance when you bring it back out on the water when the weather warms up again.

When winterizing your boat, make sure you plan in advance for storage. There are many facilities that offer both indoor and outdoor storage options.

When winterizing your boat, make sure you plan in advance for storage. There are many facilities that offer both indoor and outdoor storage options.

Deciding Where to Store Your Boat

Moving your boat will depend on how you choose to store it in the off-season. If you live in a warmer climate and are storing it in the water, make sure to clean the interior of the boat before covering it. Consider placing products like DampRid throughout the interior to prevent mildew.

However, if you live in Chicago or another cold climate and must store your boat out of the water, you will need to decide where you will store your boat before you hook it up to your trailer or have it transported. There are several places in the Chicago area that offer outdoor storage or indoor heated storage, plus shrink wrapping services to keep your boat protected from the elements. Here are some of the storage facilities we recommend checking out:

Chicago Park District
541 N. Fairbanks Court, Suite 1020
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 742-8520

Chicago Yacht Works
2550 S. Ashland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60608
(312) 666-6670

Crowley’s Yacht Yard Lakeside
3434 East 95th Street
Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 221-9990

Properly Preparing the Boat for Winterization

Once you’ve decided on a storage facility, it’s time to prep your boat for storage. Most storage facilities offer all these services as add-ons, but of course, hiring them to do the work can get pricey. If you’re more of a DIYer, here are some things to do to make sure your boat is thoroughly prepped.

If you are choosing to store your boat offshore here are some tips to consider before beginning:

1. Make sure to properly support your boat

The engines, bulkheads, and keel are areas of special importance. Randy Hess from Sea Ray warns that “Onshore storage demands additional diligence in supporting the hull.”

2. Make a maintenance checklist

Write down anything on the boat that requires maintenance before next spring and get the work scheduled. If there are any blisters in the hull have them repaired soon.

3. Give it a good cleaning

Power wash all the barnacles and slime off the hull, rudders, props, shafts, struts, and trim tabs. Also, take any valuable items out of your boat such as fishing gear, electronics, fire extinguishers, and flares. Additionally, remove the batteries and store them in a warm, dry place.

4. Drain water tanks and heaters

After shutting them off, flush antifreeze through all the systems and turn on all faucets and sinks until the antifreeze comes out. Also, pump out the holding tank and flush with fresh water, followed by antifreeze.

5. Allow water to drain from seacocks by leaving them open

Not properly draining water from your boat will lead to damage caused by freezing water or corrosion and rust on working parts.

6. Fill her up

Put fresh gas in the tank until halfway full and use a fuel conditioner. During the winter, the fuel octane level will drop which can cause engine damage. To avoid this, fill the tank with fresh gas before using your boat the next spring.

7. Cover it

A boat cover is an essential part of winter storage according to Patrick Galvan from Storage Talk. “The last thing you want is to have the inside of your boat become filled with snow and debris.” Cover prices will vary be boat size and shape, but many people choose to shrink wrap their boats for the best protection.

While you can transport a boat yourself, most people call on a professional moving service to help them get the job done safely and efficiently.

While you can transport a boat yourself, most people call on a professional moving service to help them get the job done safely and efficiently.

Moving the Boat Yourself

If you’re transporting the boat to storage yourself, make sure you have the right trailer for the job. Mark Scocco from Bergen Bass Masters states that “the most important thing to do to the trailer is to re-pack the bearings. If a bad seal has permitted water to get in, they’ll surely rust while sitting idle for the winter.” If there are any signs of wear to the bearings or tires have them fixed or replaced before loading your boat. You may wish to consider jacking up the axle while your boat is stored to take the weight off the tires. Also, remember to check the taillights before taking your trailer out onto the road to avoid being pulled over.

Hiring Chicago Movers to Transport It for You

Most people, especially sailboat owners, opt to hiring a boat moving company to transport their boats to storage. Sailing a large vessel on open water is one thing, but trying to navigate city streets with a huge trailer is quite another. If you’re looking for affordable movers in the Great Lakes, here are some of the best options:

Anchorage Marine Service
Phone: 616-399-6745

Cheap Chicago Movers
(773) 570-9878

Great Lakes Boat Haulers
(989) 893-6777

Following these safety tips to ensure the protection and maintenance of your boat throughout the winter season. If you’ve properly prepared and winterized your boat, it will be ready to set sail again as soon as the snow thaws!

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7 Ways to Maximize Storage Space on Your Sailboat

On 19 April 2017
| No Comments
| Sailboat Storage
sailboats

Sailboats are usually small in size unless you own a luxurious yacht, and there’s probably very little space on board for your belongings. To get the most out of your boat’s square footage, here are seven ways to maximize storage on the water.

1. Bulk Items

Things that need to be stored in large numbers, such as bottled or canned beverages, can take up a lot of space. To free up space on your boat, try to divide your items into smaller portions and store them under seats, beneath beds, and in other small compartments that can’t fit larger items. This can leave space for other belongings that can’t be split up.

2. Linens

Towels, tablecloths, and other textiles can take up too much space on an average size boat. Instead of packing a lot of linens onto your boat, try to limit the number of items that each person can use and wash each one frequently to save space. If you can’t go without a big selection, consider investing in a vacuum packer to help shrink larger blankets and towels.

Use vacuum bags to reduce the amount of space consumed by bulky linens.

Use vacuum bags to reduce the amount of space consumed by bulky linens.

3. Multitasking Tools

Ordinary objects such as tongs, mugs, and spoons can be used for a variety of different tasks on a boat, and it’s a good idea to bring utensils that can serve more than just one purpose. Using these tools can allow you to leave others behind, which can open up some much-needed shelf space for other things.

4. Collapsing Containers

Instead of bulky boxes, try to use collapsible containers such as canvas bags on board your boat. You can shrink them once they’re empty, which allows for more space in the area and makes packing and unpacking a breeze. It’s also easier to squeeze extra supplies on board when you know that your vessel will be less cramped within a day or two.

5. Wall Space

The cabin walls on a sailboat can provide valuable storage space that many people tend to ignore. Permanent shelves are an excellent way to take advantage of this space, as well as attaching hooks or suction cups for storing hanging goods. Just remember to be careful when hanging objects near an important walkway, since it’s easy for people to knock things off a wall in a tight space.

6. Hammocks

There’s a reason why professional sailors used hammocks back when sailboats were the latest and greatest in maritime technology. Traditional beds can take up too much room on a boat and can’t double as a storage space. But by stringing up hammocks, crews can conserve what little space they have and even roll up their hammocks during the day. Not to mention, a hanging hammock that moves with the waves could be more comfortable than a stiff bed!

7. Oversupplying

Remember, try not to store too much on your sailboat. It’s good to be prepared for an emergency, but packing excessive supplies wastes both space and money. When you stock your boat, look at each item and think carefully about whether you expect to use it or not. If the odds are low, it’s best to leave your belongings on shore.

With these simple tips, you can reduce the amount of clutter on your boat and maximize the storage space that you do have. For more tips and tricks on living in tight quarters, check out the helpful storage hacks blog written by Imperial Self Storage (imperialselfstorage.com). This New York storage company knows how to make cramped Manhattan apartments more functional, which translates well to living on a boat.

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Leave the Snow Behind with These Fun Winter Sailing Getaways

On 15 December 2016
| No Comments
| Sailing Desinations
tropical-sailing

As the excitement of the holiday season quickly fades away, the remaining winter months can seem endlessly dreary. When the snow starts turning into a muddy slush and skies become increasingly dark and gray, it’s hard to have a sunny disposition. And if you’re starting to feel a little glum yourself, it’s time to beat the winter blues by sailing away to warmer weather! For those in desperate need of a winter sailing getaway, here are a few prime locations to check out.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Along with its sandy beaches and pleasant weather, this popular Florida community is known as the “Venice of America”, with 300 miles of fresh water canals and waterways. This destination remains an angler’s delight for the hundreds of fish species that inhabit the local lakes, rivers, and ocean coast. Visitors here enjoy cruising past majestic homes along the Millionaires’ Row, relaxing with a drink in hand at one of the many city beaches, and sailing to Pelican Landing for a tasty meal at the Grille 66 Bar and Restaurant.

San Francisco, California

The sunny west coast of San Francisco is the perfect spot for escaping the winter blues. While sailing the beautiful coastline, boaters have the chance to see a number of famous landmarks, including the notorious Alcatraz prison and the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also witness dolphins frolicking in the bay and see whale pods migrating south to warmer waters. After sailing, head on over to Fisherman’s Wharf for great shopping, delicious dining, and to watch the resident sea lions sun themselves on the ocean docks.

The island of Alcatraz from San Fransisco waters.

The island of Alcatraz is a wonder to see from a boater’s perspective.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

The island of Lanzarote is part of the Canary Island archipelago and boasts a heavenly tropical climate all year round. With lush plant life and picturesque sandy beaches, Lanzarote is a true sailor’s paradise. The island’s cities of Arrecife, Playa Blanca, and Puerto del Carmen have large marinas that offer visitors many different choices of sailboats to charter. While sailing local waters, mariners can enjoy frequent sightings of pilot whales, spectacular sunsets, and clear starry night skies.

Martinique, Caribbean Islands

Martinique is a small island located in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago. With secluded coves, colorful reefs, and numerous shipwrecks, the island is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and numerous swimming adventures. Visitors should also make a point of exploring inland to experience the island’s natural hot springs, exotic flora, and local cuisine. From here, boaters have the opportunity to sail northward to Dominica or Guadeloupe, or to the southern waters of St. Vincent or St. Lucia.

Martinique is perfect for sailing and snorkeling beautiful waters.

Martinique is perfect for sailing and snorkeling beautiful waters.

Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

The winter months are the perfect time to embark on an Asian sailing adventure. Cruising around the coast of Thailand allows visitors to experience stunning rainforests, ancient Siam ruins, and other natural phenomena. In Phang Nga Bay, boaters will also find many fascinating rock formations, aquatic grottos, and beautiful sea caves to explore in. You can also visit many fishing villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries and where locals are happy to share their culture and exotic cuisine.

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Best Sailing Destinations on the Great Lakes

On 12 December 2016
| No Comments
| Sailing Desinations
sunset-harbor

For those who enjoy sailing on large bodies of open water, the Great Lakes of the American midwest are the perfect place to visit. With ocean-like expanses of fresh water, charming coastal towns, and private coves that dot the coasts, the Great Lakes are ideal for those who love to sail. For sloops and schooners alike, we’ve listed some of the best desinations in the Great Lakes area for top notch sailing experiences.

Bowers Harbor

Along the west coast of Lake Michigan, the calm waters of Bowers Harbor are perfect to lay anchor, relax, and surf in. If you’re looking for attractions on land, you can hop ashore and visit Bowers Harbor Vineyards, where visitors can enjoy tours of the vines along with wine tastings. You may also want visit Bowers Harbor Inn, which is a beautiful and historic mansion that provides quality lodging. Inside you’ll find the Jolly Pumpkin Café, which carries a lineup of local craft beers. You’ll also find the Mission Table restaurant, where you can enjoy a wide variety of tasty seafood dishes before heading back to your sailboat.

The Great Lakes have ideal open water sailing conditions.

The Great Lakes have ideal open water sailing conditions.

Beaver Island

At the north end of Lake Michigan, you’ll find the Beaver Island Archipelago. It’s the perfect location to lay anchor and fish for smallmouth bass and carp. There are also some great spots for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is also a great hiking destination. One of the most popular hiking attractions, located on the west side of the island, is called the Stone Circle.  Here, an impressive circle of boulders nearly 400′ wide surrounds a central rock in a manner reminiscent of Britain’s Stonehenge. There are many theories as to what the rocks mean and who placed them there, but the best hypothesis suggests that they may have been placed there by Native Americans to mark astronomical orientations.

Mackinac Island

To the west, pass under the Mackinac Bridge and into the waters of Lake Huron. Here you’ll find the picturesque Mackinac Island, a National Historic Landmark. This island is full of cute shops, coffee spots, and is known for its famous fudge markets. The whole island has a ban on nearly all motorized vehicles, so it’s perfect for visitors arriving by sea. You can rent a bike from one of the many stands in town or hop on a horse and buggy ride to explore all the island has to offer. In late August, you can treat yourself to the island’s Annual Fudge Festival, which is a fun fudge and beer tasting event.

The Annual Fudge Festival on Mackinaw Island is not to be missed!

The Annual Fudge Festival on Mackinaw Island is not to be missed!

Manitoulin Island

The Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron has something for everyone, including art museums, golf courses, shopping, and restaurants. It’s definitely a fun area to lay anchor in. Manitoulin is 80 miles long with many hidden anchorages surrounding the island, so it’s easy to find either some new friends or some privacy, depending on what you’re looking for. There are also four marinas around the island where you can refuel and gather fishing supplies.

The Great Lakes have been a source of good sailing, food, and exploration for quite some time. Whatever your taste may be, these waters and the coastal towns have something wonderful to offer everyone.

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