Cold Weather Boating

Winter is generally not a good time for sailing, but there can be times that, with proper preparation and protection, boating in the cold or cooler months can be a unique experience.

First, there won’t be so many boats you need to share the water with, so you can enjoy the sense of freedom and adventure that boating gives when sailing alone in any climate and condition. But of course, if it’s cold on land, it’s going to be even colder on the water. So you’ll need some source of warmth while sailing. Warmer clothing, of course, is a must – leave the shorts and bathing suits behind – and make sure the water is relatively calm, and stay close and in sight of shore.

Always check the weather reports before embarking; and, especially for smaller boats, don’t try to “wait out” a squall; head for shore at the first hint of bad weather and wait it out.

And invest in things that will keep you warm. The simplest method of heating a boat’s cabin is an electric heater plugged into the boat’s electrical system. There are various kinds of heaters available, but always purchase heaters made of stainless steel or other non-corrosive materials specifically designed for boating.

Fuel burning diesel heaters are popular, especially with boats with diesel engines and already have an available fuel source on board. They can be bulkhead mounted or floor mounted, and with or without a fan to circulate warm air.

Regardless of the boat, and where and when you sail it, protective covering when not sailing is a must in any climate and condition. CMC Canvas LLC provides quality canvass covering for your boat, car or anything valuable that needs protection from the elements.