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Microfiber Pad Base Cover
Transform the Shurhold Handle into an extendible microfiber scrubbing pad! This pad has all the same benefits as a high-quality microfiber towel. Lifting and trapping dirt easily, it's perfect for cleaning any high-up windows, isinglass, or other sensitive surfaces.
Features:
Fits Shurhold's Swivel Pad Base
Applications:
Perfect for cleaning any high-up windows, isinglass, or other sensitive surfaces
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17.98 |
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Shur-LOK Swivel Pad & Scrubbers
Swivel Pad Base
Universal swivel pad holder
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35.98 |
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Flex Keel Pad - Edge Cover Style - 10" x 1-1/2" - Black
These black poly pads cushion the trailer cross members to protect your boat keel. Edge cover style mounts on the trailing edge of any width cross member or axle.
Features:
Black poly material
10" L x 1-1/2" W
3/8" thick
4-1/2" hole centers
Mount using two rivets or screws through the top (hardware not included).
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4.31 |
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As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away.
Outside Storage?
It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.
Rinse/Flush
Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat.
Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring.
Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.
Salt
Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion.
Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine.
Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4*
STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel.
Batteries
Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement.
Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery.
If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat.
Cleaning
Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint.
Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins.
Cover Up
If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often.
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html
and
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html
Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information.
Fair winds and smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
_________________________________________________________________________
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten.
She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.
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Winterizing Your Boat
When the boating season is winding down, it's time to start thinking about protecting your valuable recreational asset. The time and effort you spend now will have a definite effect on your boat's performance, or lack of it, and certainly save you time, effort and money come spring. You should remember that your insurance policy may not cover damage done by lack of maintenance or neglect.
The best place for your boat to be during the winter is out of the water, under cover, in a climate-controlled boat storage area. This, however, can be expensive. If don't have this option perhaps you should consider shrink-wrapping your boat. This, too, is a little expensive but provides a very protective cover. Short of these two items, make sure that your boat is well covered with a tarp or some other sturdy cover.
Your first step in winterizing should be to make a checklist of all items that need to be accomplished. Check the owner's manual of both your boat and motor for manufacturer's recommendations on winterization. If you are a new boat owner, perhaps you should employ the assistance of a friend with experience in winterizing or hire a professional to do the job.
CLR Marine sells the winterizing products you will need for winter storage and regular maintence of your boat.
Specials Closeouts Remanufactured Rebates
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Paddle your own Canoe
The history of canoes dates back 10,000 years to our forefathers, who launched dugout canoes made with animal skin and a skeleton frame of tree branches. More recently, there has been a discovery of a well-preserved birch bark canoe dating back 250 years.
Canoe rides are calm as you glide on rivers, altering your speed with your paddle as you are propelled along. Canoe rides are pristine. Of late, white water canoeing as a sport has become very popular and more challenging. Ocean canoeing falls under the white water category.
Tandem Canoeing
Canoeing with a buddy gives you someone to talk to, and gives you more paddle power for your vessel. These tips, provided by Voyageur Outward Bound School, will make your canoeing experience easier and safer.
Paddle on opposite sides of the boat-
To keep your craft from pitching back and forth and make the boat more stable under motion. For added stability, kneel if you’re in rough water or trying to gain ground in a headwind.
Paddle in sync with your partner. Find your rhythm. It is the bow (front) paddler’s job to set the pace, and it is the role of the stern (back) paddler to match that tempo.
The bow is where the speed comes in. Maximize your forward momentum. Call a “switch” regularly to change sides, which will help keep your boat going in a straight line.
Keep your paddle shaft vertical.
The alternative is called “lily-dipping” – if you’ve got an itinerary to keep and miles to make, a vertical paddle shaft will ensure that the blade of your paddle is vertical during the power phase of your stroke – maximizing forward propulsion each time.
Wear your PFD.
Safety first in all boating activities. Canoes are very unstable, especially getting in and getting out. Seventy-five percent of paddle sport-related drownings were found with no personal flotation device on. Twenty percent of paddlesport fatalities had alcohol as a contributing factor. Invest in a comfortable PFD, so you’re more likely to wear it. It won’t save your life if you don’t wear it.
Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. A person dressed in street clothes has a 50% chance of swimming 50 yards in 50-degree water. Hypothermia is the natural killer.
Know your limits.
Measure before you go. Novice paddlers typically cover about two mph on flat water. Experienced paddlers looking for a workout can cover 3-3.5 mph. Anticipate what river current might do to your speed and itinerary.
Check out the CLR Marine Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 - Black for better navigation.
Sunscreen in all the right places.
Sun reflected off the water will burn in some unlikely places – under your nose and back of your ears. In an aluminum canoe, there is added reflection off metal surfaces. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Both need to be attached with a keeper string.
Practice getting back in your boat.
If you are paddling solo, the best advice is to paddle close to shore and in the lee. Don’t be farther away from the beach than what you know you can swim with your boat full of water. The Canadian re-entry technique works well for the less-athletic and in choppy waters. Once you’ve T-rescued the capsized boat, have the swimmer get to one end of two boats held side by side by a rescuer. Put a hand on each gunwale, float on your back, and hook a leg over a gunwale of each boat. Then, arch your back and drop your bottom into one of the boats.
Beware of flat river-wide horizon lines.
These are often low head dams. They may look benign, with a modest 2-4 foot drop, but given how water hydraulics work, underwater currents trap and hold boats and humans. Learn to recognize these hazards and portage around them.
Pack good snacks.
In addition to ample water, consider packing power snacks or a picnic lunch, fishing poles, binoculars, extra chocolate.
Kayaking
Like canoeing, Kayaking allows the boater to glide across pristine lake waters and rivers. Most kayaks are made of roto-molded polyethylene resins. Kayaks have become very advanced, not only for the water but for ease of transporting, durability, and skill level. In 2021, you will find sit on top kayaks, folding kayaks, and inflatables.
Many of the same techniques used in canoeing apply in Kayaking as well. When going tandem in Kayaking, follow the same guidelines as canoeing tandem.
Check out https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports.html
Surfing
Movies and television shows have popularized surfing over the years with the likes of Hawaii 5-0, Gidget Goes Hawaiian, and more recently Rip Tide, Momentum and Take Every Wave. Whether this is your first opportunity to catch a wave, or you have been practicing, studying and surfing around the globe, there is a surfboard with your name on it. And, there is a price range for boards from inexpensive to custom-made just for you.
There are three specifications for beginning and intermediate surfers when looking for a good board:
Length (easy paddling and making speed, helps to catch smaller waves)
Buoyancy (the thicker the board, the better it floats, the more waves you catch)
Width (a wide board gives you more stability and will help you stand up consistently)
Getting started
If you are a beginner, the best way to learn is to be taught by an experienced surfer. Plan to get a wide board, and know that you will spend more time sitting and kneeling on the board, than standing. There are surfing classes at various resorts and beaches. They are worth the time and money.
Always think of safety first. Find a beach that is perfect for beginners with small waves.
Be aware of your surroundings. Spot landmarks that you can see from the water. Spend time on the beach before you enter the water. Take the time to check your leash and your board. Watch other surfers and see what they do. Their successes or failure are good teaching moments for you. Pace yourself. Don’t rush to catch the biggest wave.
Paddlesports are meant to be relaxing, fun, and a terrific opportunity to commune with nature. Enjoy.
Fair winds and smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
_________________________________________________________________________
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten.
She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.
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Brite Bonnet Pro Final Polish Pad - Shag Microfiber f/Pro Version Polishers
The Brite Bonnet PRO is a shaggy microfiber pad used to remove excess wax and buff your surface to a final shine. For best results, use at the slowest speed setting.
For best results, use the Bright Bonnet Pro Final Finish Pad on your polisher lowest speed setting. The pads large size may cause loss of control at higher speeds.
Specifications:
7 1/2" Microfiber Pad
*For use with the Dual Action Polisher and Pro Rotary Polisher
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15.58 |
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Brite Bonnett Shag Microfiber for Dual Action Polisher
The Brite Bonnet is a shaggy microfiber pad used to remove excess wax and buff your surface to a final shine. This unique pad is designed with a vapor barrier inside so it may be fitted over a wet wax pad for quick use.
Compatible Devices:
Dual Action Polisher
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17.36 |
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Serious Pad Cleaner - 12oz
Serious Pad Cleaner is scientifically formulated powdered cleaner for rejuvenating buffing pads. Mixed with water this cleaner dissolves compounds and waxes from wool, foam and blended buffing pads cleaning them to be used over and over.
For most pad cleaning applications Mix 2 scoops (scoop included) with 2 gallons of water. This will allow for 10-12 batches. Mixed solution can be used for upto a one week or until product nolonger breaks down and cleans pads, which ever occurs first.
Also great for cleaning dock lines along with microfiber and cotton bonnets.
MADE IN USA
Instructions:
In a plastic container, mix 1 scoop (included) or1 tbsp. of powder per 1 gallon (3.78 Litters) of warm water. Stir thoroughly. Mix only what is needed for application and use within 7 days of mixing or more often with heavy use. Soak items to be cleaned for up to 15 minutes. Agitate and Brush lightly. Thoroughly rinse area with clean water. For extremely soiled area, let solution soak in longer.
Buffing Pads
Wash your pads immediately for easiest cleaning. Serious Pad Cleaner & Rope Wash will remove caked on and saturated compounds ands waxes from your buffing pads. Let pads thoroughly air dry prior to using again.
Ropes & Dock Line
Wash annually or as needed. Serious Pad Cleaner & Rope Wash will remove stains from mold, mildew, algae, and dirt in ropes and dock lines. Agitate with Shurhold's Rope Brush for best results.
Safety & Handling
While this product is environmentally friendly and bio-degradable, please follow these warnings. This is a concentrated citrus cleaner and may irritate your skin with prolonged exposure. Due to its powerful cleaning properties, wear old clothes while using. Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses. Do not mix with bleach or any other concentrated chemical cleaners. Keep unused powder in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets.
Caution:
Do not get in eyes, on skin, or clothing. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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20.38 |
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Shur-LOK Swivel Pad & Scrubbers
Swivel Pad Combo
includes swivel pad base and synthetic lambs wool cover
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47.98 |
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Microfiber Towels Variety - 3-Pack
Microfiber towels lift and trap dirt, moisture & grease, unlike regular cotton towels, which just push contaminants across the surface. These towels are extremely soft, gentle, and super absorbent so they won't scratch.
Each of the microfiber towels in the three-pack has a different purpose
The dark blue towel is super soft for polishing and shining
The yellow towel is extra strong for washing and cleaning
The light blue towel is lint free for cleaning and wiping glass and mirrors
Three easy steps: wet it; wring it; wipe it!
They can be washed up to 500 times and still retain their softness. Machine washable, but DO NOT use fabric softener.
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26.38 |
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March 809 815 Series Mag-Drive Centrifugal Pumps
The March MAGNE-BOOST Hydronic hot water booster pumps are a non-self priming unit built to handle liquid transfer in heating and cooling operations. Typical applications include home heating systems, solar heating systems, heat recovery systems and recirculating water in domestic and commercial hot water tanks. These pumps are not food rated.
• Brewery pump - the March 809 and 815 series of pumps are commonly used by Home Brewers and Breweries.
• Maximum liquid temperature for the 809 and 815 series is 250 F.
• Port configurations include in-line and center inlet with side discharge.
• Construction materials: Bronze, Stainless Steel, Ryton/Polysulfil Plastic. Impellers are Teflon plastic.
• There are many motor options available Including AC, DC and High Speed versions for added flow.
March Pump Mag-Drive Centrifugal Pump Bronze with Base 24VDC High Speed 7.5GPM 1/2"MPT Ports
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498.00 |
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Groco Bp-20-S-Base Casting Pump Base
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41.24 |
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By now, the skipper in your life has probably dropped a few hints about holiday gifts. Was it the note left on the coffee pot about Articulated ABS Barrel Hinge foldable Aluminum Tubing? At first glance, one would have thought that the message was a reminder about being out of coffee filters. Then it comes back to you that there was a conversation in the car about GemLock Assembled Folding Struts.
Foldable aluminum tubing is one of the hottest trends in stainless steel hardware for marine canvas and solar panel frames. The tubing offers versatility in styling, high quality, and ease of use. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/manufacturers/g/gemini-marine.html
Back to your captain's holiday gift list. Was there a subtle hint, while you both were swimming off the boat, and your skipper showed concern that the transom ladder seemed a little short by a few steps? She would find getting out of the lake sooooo much easier if she didn't have to reach her foot up so far to the lowest step. She had also mentioned a discussion with other boat captains about the Extend Your Step, an easy-to-use boat boarding ladder extension. Several of her sailing buddies already have them and raved about the ease and portability.
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All of the products mentioned above are available at CLR Marine.com. How confident are the folks at CLR Marine about the Extend Your Step regarding ease in boarding and extending the ladder length? This product reflects the confidence and integrity of CLR Marine's owner, Chuck Reed. He invented the Extend Your Step! When shopping for the extending ladder, be sure to check out the Extend Your Step Three – a longer and non-moving version of the Extend Your Step! https://www.clrmarine.com/Boat-Boarding-Ladder-Extension
It's possibly time for your captain to give the best seat in the house – on your boat- an upgrade. There is no better place to watch the glint of the sun on the waves than in a stern perch seat. Stern rail seats are now available for older model boats, even pre-1993, and the seats are removable. https://www.clrmarine.com/sternperch-seats.html
Stocking Stuffers
Floatable key rings. If you are old enough to have keys, then you are old enough to lose keys. House keys, boat keys, car keys – when these fall into the drink and aren't retrievable, your boat outing takes a turn for the worse. Car key fobs are expensive to replace. Neon colored strong straps or carabiner clips offer added security against key loss.
DryCASE Smartphone Case
The DryCASE waterproof cell phone case keeps your electronics protected, whether surfing, paddle boarding, or canoeing. The DryCASE uses vacuum seal technology to ensure a watertight seal every time. Best of all, you'll still be able to use your touch screen to text or make calls, and the crystal clear covering makes taking pictures a cinch. When you purchase the DryCASE you will also receive a small hand pump, neoprene armband, and a lanyard $36.92. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/45443—drycase-smartphone-case.html
RAM Mount AQUA BOX Medium
RAM AQUA BOX® cases provide sealed enclosure and protection for your handheld devices. The clear, touch through screen allows you to view your electronics and use their function keys while in place. There is even a place for a small lock to serve as a theft deterrent. The AMPS hole pattern on the back of the box allows this enclosure to be attached to many RAM mounting bases and kits. Ideally suited to Motorcycles and ATV's, the AQUA BOX keeps your portable devices safe, dry, and accessible $36.49.
Scotty 130 Paddle Safety Leash
Paddles, rods, nets, gaffs, and many other items can be secured while in use with the Scotty Safety Leash. Features include two extra strong Scotty 1009 swivel snaps; super-strong Flex Coil cord allows for maximum unrestricted movement and stretches to approx. 6'. Unit Includes two figure eight securing straps $11.99. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/37811--scotty-130-paddle-safety-leash-black.html
Gifts under $30.00
Don't forget about covers for your water toys.
The Dallas Manufacturing Co – Pedal Boat Cover will keep your pedal boat dry, dirt free, and protected from the sun when not in use. Features include 150 Denier Silver Polyester, fits both 3 and 5 Person Pedal Boats and is backed by a one year warranty $13.19. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/36879—dallas-manufacturing-co-pedal-boat-polyester-cover.html
Mustang Lil' Legends 70 Youth Vest - Fluorescent Yellow-Green/Gray
Have guests arrived on your boat with a small young family member who needs a life vest? The Mustang Lil's Legends is a quality youth vest, and it never hurts to have a spare on board. It fits a child 50-90 pounds $21.59.
https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/49897—mustang-lil-legends-70-youth-vest-50-90lbs-fluorescent-yellow-green-gray.html
Be good—Santa's watching. Stay healthy. Fair Winds. Smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com
______________________________________________________________________________
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com
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It's that time again when Old Man Winter is shortening or ending our sailing season. Maybe you store your boat in a garage, barn, or at a marina. Now is the time to brush up on safe and useful storage tips.
1. When packing up, clean your electronics with a microfiber cloth by wiping down buttons and screens. A soft cloth is recommended with bottled water to clean screens that may have been stained by saltwater. Screen cleaners will not do the job. You may want to document the wiring so that installation is easy when you are ready to launch.
2. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.
3. Remove all batteries. Charge your batteries, clean the terminals, and put a light coat of grease on the terminals. Store your batteries in a warm, dry place. Not in the boat.
4. Winterize the engine:
Use fresh water to flush the engine, including the cooling system, to remove corrosion, dirt, salt, and residue
Refill the cooling system with antifreeze.
Warm up the engine to loosen impurities.
Replace the oil and filters.
Look for the residue of old oil.
Remove and store all belts.
5. Fill the engine with gas and stabilizer. Run the engine for 15 minutes so that the mixture reaches the engine. If your engine uses E-10 fuel, take extra care in that it absorbs moisture ten times more than typical gasoline. (source: trailervalet.com).
6. A thorough cleaning of the boat before you store is a must, whether you have a small fishing boat or a six-cabin yacht. Soap and water will do a thorough job. Clean lockers, refrigerators, coolers, sinks, and cushions. Open all and allow to dry before you store. Next, clean the entire outside from bow to stern. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Leaving a clean boat will make the launch process a lot easier when it's time.
7. Keeping mold and mildew at bay: Mildew comes from humidity. The best way to reduce humidity is ventilation. Although some skippers button up their boats to be airtight for the winter, there has to be some ventilation source. Use products that absorb moisture such as Damp Rid or purchase a dehumidifier such as Eva-Dry Mini Dehumidifiers. Find and seal any leaks and keep the boat clean. Cover the boat with either shrink wrap or a boat cover.
8. Shrinkwrap or a canvas boat cover? Ratings and opinions from the Hull Truth Boating Forum suggest that canvas covers are a better option for durability and cost. The canvas covers can be used season after season. With shrink wrap covers, there is the cost of installation every year. One source said if you are north of Boston, shrink wrapping is preferable because snow will slide right off the plastic wrap, versus weighing down the canvas. Contributors also felt the boat stays cleaner with shrink wrap.
Remove boat cushions, or not? The jury is out about removing boat cushions. Many skippers remove all cushions and bedding. Others spray the cushion bottoms with anti-mold spray. If keeping cabin cushions on the boat, stand them up on end to reduce the chance of mold. Most important is to keep as much moisture out of the cabin, as mentioned above.
Do everything you can to keep your boat critter-free during the winter. Lock all windows. Many small, rabid animals, especially raccoons, are looking for a warm place to nest for the winter. Raccoons are drawn by any food left in boats and will chew carpeting and cushions. Once inside a locked boat, they have no way to exit since they have most likely fallen from an open window. The messes they leave, including their waste, can be very unpleasant and a costly wake-up call in the spring. Keep mice out by plugging up scuppers and vents. Many skippers use Dryer Fresh Cab rodent repellent hoping the strong scent will repel rodents.
Circle Saturday, May 22, 2021, on your calendar. That is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water for a great boating season.
Fair Winds. Smooth Sailing
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
__________________________________________________________________________
Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com
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