Winter boating offers less crowded waterways, calmer waters & great fishing but boatowners need to prepare with a properly equipped boat and safety information. Enjoying the boating experience in the cooler months may necessitate a vessel better suited to the conditions or upgrading your existing vessel with a canopy, bimini or new covers. To assist existing boatowners and those keen to get into this great recreational activity, we’ve collected some tips from experts on safety and preparing your boat.
From our own experts we provide information on financing a new boat suitable for the waterways you intend to enjoy and loans to cover upgrades on existing vessels.
Winter Boating Safety Tips
While the cooler months can bring clear skies and light winds, the weather can change quickly and potentially dramatically. The chill factor can also be a lot colder out on the water than it feels while on route to the marina or boat ramp. Make sure everyone onboard is dressed appropriately with thermals, comfortable but warm layers, and don’t forget a cap or beanie. Waterproof top layers can be a boater’s best friend!
Always check the weather and the tides before heading out and plan your day according to what could develop through the day. If boating on harbours and inland waterways, be prepared for fog. It can severely limit visibility and present dangers on the water. Do all your safety checks, and as always, wear life jackets.
Marine Rescue NSW is a great source of information for anyone planning to head out on the water and they provide a safety checklist for boaters. They advise about hypothermia and cold shock which can happen quite quickly and can have significantly bad outcomes.
Ensure weight is distributed evenly through the boat to reduce the risk of capsizing and people ending up in the water which can be particularly dangerous in cold weather. In the unfortunate case that someone does end up overboard, it is important that you know how to handle the situation.
Wearing a life jacket can assist in managing cold shock as well as conserving energy. The person should stay calm, resist swimming away and stay with the vessel if it is capsized. Set off a beacon if you have one. While in the water, draw knees to chest and wrap arms around knees. If several people are in the water, huddle together to reduce hypothermia risk.
As always, log on to your local marine rescue channel and log your trip in line with the local requirements. This can be even more important in winter as there can be less boats on the water and that can mean less chance of assistance if required.
If boating in whale migration areas, follow the guidelines and stay clear. There were several incidents with boats and whales last year!
Preparing Your Vessel for Winter Boating
Ensure your boat is ready for boating in the cooler months or ready for storage and being unused for a prolonged time if you don’t intend to head out. If heading out, understand that colder weather can cause engine fluids to thicken. Test before going out and change the oil in line with servicing recommendations.
If storing or mooring unattended, check all the fluids and change the oil. Drain and flush coolants and other systems. Fogging oil can be used with the carburettor to ensure the smaller components stay safe. Some experts suggest removing drive belts which may crack when a boat is not used for an extended period. Filling up the fuel may prevent condensation building up during storage which can lead to issues.
Make sure all covers and canopies and in good condition with zips working to secure the vessel to prevent weather, water and possibly wildlife getting in and causing damage. If mooring the boat, ensure the anchor and chain is in order and secure.
Is your vessel suitable for winter boating? Affordably buying a new boat
Winter can be an ideal time to buy a boat. Quality used boats can come onto the second-hand market from owners that decided boating wasn’t for them, they are upgrading, or they don’t want to pay storage when the vessel is not in use. Used boats will need to be assessed by our lenders for suitability for a Secured Boat Loan. As an option, we secure competitive rates on Unsecured Personal Loans.
The winter months also include many boat shows including Sanctuary Cove in May and Sydney Boat Show in late July. Ideal opportunities to see the latest models and place your order. If you need to update quickly, head to your nearest dealer to inspect showroom stock. Don’t forget to have our Finance Calculator handy to work up loan estimates.
Loans for Boat Upgrades and Extra Safety Gear
Loans are available to cover many of the upgrades and additional gear that boatowners may need to ensure their boat is equipped and safe for winter boating.
Protection from the weather will be a major priority when heading out during the winter months. If your covers and canopies have seen better days or if your vessel is totally open, it could be time to invest in warmth and protection. Getting canopies especially made to fit can be required but can be costly to get done professionally and properly. Financing with an Unsecured Personal Loan may be the answer to getting your new custom covers.
This versatile loan may also be used for other gear such as new life jackets, the latest tech, safety beacons, and other items, packaged into the one purchase. Refer to your state marine authority for the life jacket requirements in the waterways you intend to visit.
For finance to equip your vessel or buy a new boat for winter boating, contact Jade Boat Loans 1300 000 003.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND SPECIFIC DETAILS CONTAINED IN THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND ARE PRESENTED PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR BOAT BUYERS AND LOAN BORROWERS. FOR THOSE THAT CONSIDER THEY REQUIRE SPECIFIC ADVICE, THEY SHOULD CONSULT WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED IN REGARD TO ERRORS AND MISPRESENTED DATA AND DETAILS HEREIN.
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