Yacht Haul-Outs and Buying & Selling Your Boat – Fall Tips
With fall in full swing here on Vancouver Island, we’re approaching the end of another incredible boating season. The weather has cooled off as daylight time shrinks, and many boat owners are getting ready to prep their boats for Winter (if they haven’t already).
Fall is a crucial time for boat owners. There’s a lot to do and prepare for on the maintenance front. Plus, some might consider selling their boat to make room for an upgrade to enjoy next season.
Here’s what you need to know about entering the off-season:
Yacht Haul-Outs, Maintenance & Dry Dock Storage
What is a boat haul-out?
A haul-out is the physical removal of a boat from the water and onto dry land. For most boat owners, this happens annually. With the boat up on dry land, this is the time to carry out regular maintenance, winterization, and other preparations for next season.
Once maintenance and winterization have been completed, boats are then moved to storage. There are a number of storage options, from wet to dry to heated indoor – more on that below.
Of course, a proper boat haul-out with storage requires a proper facility to do so. Van Isle Marina can haul-out and accommodate boats up to 70 feet or 60 tons. Plus, our marina is a full-service one, making it a one-stop-shop for maintenance, repairs, winterization and storage.
When should I haul out my boat for Winter?
We always recommend boat owners haul their boats out some time in the Fall. But early Fall is preferable.
The risk to hauling out later in the season is the time crunch. The first freeze of Winter can come unexpectedly, and when it does, it can lead to cracking in the engine block or plumbing. Organize your haul-out earlier to avoid a panic.
Do I need to haul my boat out for Winter?
No, boat haul-outs are not mandatory for all boats and boat owners. We’re lucky here on Vancouver Island with our mild climate, because boating can be a year-round activity for the most diligent and dedicated boat owners.
Some boat owners choose to leave their boats in the water year-round. Some still enjoy fishing and weekend expeditions in the colder weather, while some waterfront owners enjoy easy access to moorage right outside their home.
If you are considering this route, keep in mind that it requires even more care and attention. The boat will need to be monitored very closely for marine growth, corrosion and moisture buildup. Plus, maintenance still needs to happen. Instead of doing everything at once and then storing for months, year-round boaters do maintenance on the fly or as needed.
Learn more about haul-out rates and other services.
What are my options for Winter boat storage?
Usually there are three options: Wet Slip, Dry Storage, or Heated Indoor.
When you haul your boat out for regular maintenance and winterization, you’re probably looking for 5-6 months of storage before you’re ready to hit the open water again come Spring. Let’s go over your options:
- Wet Slip: This is a regular boat slip in the water at a marina dock. This option offers the best level of accessibility. There’s also the option to live-aboard. You can take your boat out for a spin at any time, but you will be challenged with moisture buildup and constant saltwater exposure.
- Dry Storage: Your boat is kept on land – outdoors, but covered. Here, your boat gets a break from the saltwater and can shelter from the elements until you’re ready to use it again. Learn more about our up-to-date dry storage rates.
- Heated Indoor: This option is fully enclosed and climate-controlled. It comes at a cost (compared to dry storage), but guarantees your boat’s sensitive digital systems, electronics, and upholstery will be unaffected by a cold winter.
How should I prepare for a haul-out?
Preparation for any haul-out is key, whether your boat will be out of the water for 2 days or 6 months. Give yourself lots of time. That way, organizing maintenance or recruiting manpower will be easy. At Van Isle Marina, getting your boat serviced is even easier, with access to dozens of maintenance and repair services just steps down the dock. With everything in one place, organization becomes a breeze.
As a boat owner, proper planning and preparation are your number one job before any haul-out. Days before the scheduled haul-out and on the day of, there are a few things to know as well. Read this article for 10 things you can do to prepare for a haul-out: Tips for a Successful Haul-Out.
Buying & Selling
Is Fall a good time to buy a boat?
Fall is perhaps the most ideal time of year to buy a boat on Vancouver Island, for a couple of reasons.
On one hand, sellers are a little more motivated to sell versus in the Spring or Summer. Boat owners are ready to move on and upgrade, and would prefer getting their current boat sold in time to prep for next boating season. Same goes for boat brokers and dealers. There are often discounts to be had as inventory is cleared for newer models.
As a prospective buyer, closing on a boat in the Fall gives you ample time to do any necessary maintenance, maybe a fresh coat of paint, and prepare for Spring with plenty of time to spare.
Looking for a new boat? Check out Van Isle Marina’s collection of new Pursuit boats or pre-owned sailboats and motor yachts.
Should I list my boat for sale in the Fall or Spring?
Fall and Spring are the two seasons you should consider selling your boat in. Avoid the dormant Winter and chaotic Summer.
Generally speaking, the Spring is known for stronger demand. More sellers, but more buyers too. People are eager to get out on the water, and boats usually fetch higher prices.
In the Fall, the market is noticeably less flooded with boats. There’s a chance your listing could stand out. The buyer pool is smaller too, but Fall buyers are typically the serious kind, ready to make a deal before Winter sets in.
Contact Van Isle Marina to inquire about buying, selling or trading in:
