As we start to see the other side of Winter, if you are like me, I’m sure you are thinking about leaving the state for somewhere warmer or grabbing something warm to drink next to the fire. Either way, soon enough we'll be looking forward to the spring and summer on Puget Sound.
The one question that keeps arriving at the top of my mind is ‘Where’s my next Adventure?’ It’s most likely not in Prague or Brazil or Tokyo. It’s probably in our backyard; somewhere like Port Townsend or Roche Harbor or hopefully sometime soon, Vancouver. Luckily, we have so much to safely explore within reach.
With winter coming to a close and spring knocking on the door here some tips to make sure you have a fun, less stressful and safe summer on the water.
Be sure to check your fire extinguishers to ensure they are in operational and if dated not expired
Double check your PFDs to make sure they aren’t in need of replacement or cleaning.
Replace any flares that have expired
Test your smoke and CO2 detectors
Haul out as necessary to paint and inspect hull or have a diver inspect and clean your hull
Replace any zincs that need a fresh anode
If you have outboards and didn’t get service at the end of the season it’s time to schedule that appointment before the yards are chalk full of your neighbors’ boats
Inspect impellers and replace when necessary
Deep clean your bilge, cushions, interiors to knock that green off of everything from winter
Wax your boat to ensure your gel coat lasts for another decade
Tighten all your screws and fasteners. The expansion and contraction over the winter and vibration while underway has caused a few of these to loosen up
Test your bilge pumps to ensure they are working properly
Test out and lubricate all your seacocks as they can seize if not operated
Replace batteries in your handheld equipment
De-winterize your freshwater system by flushing out anti-freeze a few times with freshwater
Oil your interior wood finishes
Clean and lubricate heads with application of vinegar followed by baby oil
As always if you have any questions, please let me know.
Whether you spend your time in the desert, beach or in Washington this winter, please let me know if you’d like to spend the summer on the water.
Looking forward to seeing you out on the water this summer!