Expert tips from our Haven Team
Exposure to winter weather and icy conditations can place extra strain on your vessel. To help safeguard your boat throughout the winter season, allowing you to rest easy in the knowledge your boat is safe and secure, our Haven Team have pulled together our TOP 5 TIPS for ensuring your vessel stays securely moored and protected.
Top Tips when berthing afloat over the winter
#1 One line, one job
Try to avoid the "running W" mooring line (one long line starting at the bow cleat on the finger, to the boat, back to the middle cleat, to the midships cleat on the boat, then to the aft cleat, then finally back to the boat). The "running W" makes it very difficult to adjust lines in a gale. Use separate lines for bow and stern, two long spring lines and, if it makes you rest easier, double-up where you feel necessary. We check boats several times a day during the winter so having your lines like this will allow our Haven Team to make adjustments.
#2 Fendering
If you've got them, use them! We often see boats without enough fenders, but lots in baskets or lockers because the owner thinks they are the wrong size. This may be the case, but it is still more beneficial to use them especially if you’re leaving your boat for a longer period over the winter.
#3 Shackles
Avoid using metal shackles straight on to the pontoon cleats. This will only end up with the shackle or the cleat getting broken. Either way, the end result will be the same - your boat not properly attached to the pontoon finger.
#4 Avoid short lines
It's best to avoid short, tight lines from midships to the centre finger cleat. The line will exert big snatch loads. If you have a midships line, ensure it is long enough to stretch to absorb any load.
#5 Line quality
Before you leave your boat for the winter, check the quality of your moorings lines. Damaged lines will break under heavy loads which will put additional stress on all your good lines. If your line is damaged, the part of the rope in question can be cut out and you could be left with a useable length of rope.
#6 (A bonus tip!) Book Early
There’s nothing worse than getting your engineers, painters or tradesman ready, only for your local boatyard to be completely full or without availability in their lifting schedule. Be sure to book your boat hoist/storage AND your marine services as early as possible as the best service providers will be fully booked for the winter well in advance!
On-site 24/7 to look after your vessel
Our Haven Team undertake daily checks of every vessel ensuring lines and fenders remain in position.
This includes adding extra lines, re-alligned fenders and tidying up covers when needed.
Need something specific checked onboard? Just give us a call and we'll get on it for you.
Book now for the winter
We are now taking bookings for winter berthing and storage ashore at Troon and we have some great deals and packages available. Bring your boat into the shelter of the Yacht Haven this winter. Special winter prices are valid from 1 October to 31 March.
To discuss your specific requirements or to book your winter deal, please contact our Haven Team on 01292 315553 or complete the enquiry form below.