Boat winter maintenance – How we prepare our charter yachts for the new season

Many of our charter guests often ask what happens with our sailing yachts and catamarans during the winter months, especially those curious about when the season starts, when it ends, and how we keep our fleet in top condition year after year.

While the sailing season usually begins in April and wraps up toward the end of October, our work doesn’t stop there. Every year, once the yacht charter season in Croatia ends and the yachts return to their home bases, our team begins a carefully planned winter maintenance program. Whether a yacht belongs to us as a company or is part of a charter management program, we coordinate closely with every owner to decide which upgrades, replacements, or repairs should be completed before spring.

From hull work and rigging checks to deep interior cleaning and full technical service, winter is the time when each one of our monohulls and catamarans receives the attention and care needed to be safe, reliable, and comfortable for the next season.

Haul-Out and Hull maintenance

Every yacht is scheduled for haul-out using the marina’s travel lift. After the yacht is on land, we complete the essential exterior works. The hull is thoroughly pressure-washed to remove marine growth, cleaned, and lightly sanded to prepare the surface. A fresh coat of antifouling paint is then applied to protect the underwater area and ensure smooth performance under sail.

While the yacht is still on land, we also polish the hull and repair any gelcoat scratches that may have occurred during the busy season. This is also the perfect moment to inspect and service:

• rudder
• saildrive
• shaft
• propeller

Once all below-waterline tasks are completed, the yacht is launched back into the sea, where the rest of the maintenance continues. Depending on the weather, marina capacity, and the size of each yacht, we usually handle up to two boats per week in dry dock, assuming no major structural repairs or waiting times for specific spare parts.

Rigging, Sails, and Deck gear service

Winter is also the period when we take care of everything related to sails and deck equipment. To ensure smooth and safe sailing in the coming season, we start by washing all sails with fresh water and letting them dry thoroughly. We also check the sails for minor repairs, including stitching, patching, and UV-protection improvements, ensuring they remain in good condition.

After the cleaning and inspection, we remove the mainsail and genoa and store them in a dry, ventilated place where they remain protected throughout the winter months.

We also take care of the sprayhood and bimini tops, which go through the same process:

• cleaning
• checking for signs of wear or damage
• repairs or replacement if necessary
• storage in a dry place

Deck hardware, such as winches, blocks, and lines is also inspected and serviced, ensuring everything runs smoothly once the yachts return to charter in spring.

Additionally, the wooden cockpit tables are removed and stored during the winter. Before the season starts, they are reinstalled, freshly varnished, and coated to protect them for the months ahead.

Engine, Generator, and Mechanical Systems

A reliable engine is one of the most important aspects of a successful charter week, which is why winter is dedicated to detailed mechanical servicing. Once the yachts return from the season, our technicians begin with full annual maintenance according to manufacturer recommendations. This includes oil changes, replacement of all filters, and inspection of belts and impellers.

For catamarans and larger yachts, the generator is given the same attention; serviced, cleaned, and tested to make sure it performs reliably when at anchor.

Additionally, we inspect and maintain:

• fuel system and filters
• cooling and exhaust systems
• bow thrusters
• hydraulic components
• outboard engines for dinghies

It’s a comprehensive process, but keeping every mechanical part in optimal condition is key to smooth and safe sailing throughout the season.

Electrical, plumbing, and all onboard systems

Modern charter yachts rely on a wide range of electrical and technical systems, all of which need to be checked thoroughly. After a season of intensive use, we go through an in-depth inspection to ensure everything is ready for spring.

This includes:

• checking all electrical wiring and connections
• inspecting the main switchboard and safety fuses
• testing battery capacity and replacing old batteries
• servicing navigation equipment (GPS, plotter, autopilot, radar, VHF)
• checking interior and exterior lighting
• inspection of all pumps: freshwater, bilge, grey/black water
• control and cleaning of toilet systems, including hose replacement where needed
• flushing and checking all plumbing lines and seacocks
• gas installation safety check, by a certified external company

Because so many things on board depend on electricity, water flow, and proper ventilation, this phase plays a vital role in preparing the yachts for reliable charter operation.

Air Conditioning, heating, and comfort systems

Many of our catamarans and larger monohulls are equipped with air-conditioning, heating, and other comfort systems. The period when the yachts are out of operation gives us the perfect opportunity to service these systems thoroughly.

During this phase, we:

• clean and replace AC filters
• check pressure levels in cooling circuits
• service heating systems such as Webasto or Eberspächer
• inspect and clean fridges and freezers
• winterize watermakers (mainly on catamarans)

Interior winterization and deep cleaning

While the technical team focuses on systems, our interior crew works on bringing each yacht back to its original freshness. After months of constant usage, every interior needs a complete reset.

We start by removing all linens, mattresses, pillows, and fabrics from every cabin. Everything is cleaned, stored, or replaced when necessary. The interior is then deep-cleaned from bow to stern, including:

• cabins
• saloon and seating areas
• bathrooms (showers, sinks, toilets)
• galley and kitchen inventory

Wood surfaces are treated and refreshed, small repairs are completed, and upholstery is professionally cleaned. We also restock first aid kits, kitchen utensils, and any missing or worn equipment. Mold prevention and proper ventilation are key during winter storage, so all cabins are left dry, aired out, and in perfect condition for spring.

Safety Equipment and Annual compliance checks

Safety is non-negotiable in the charter business, which is why every yacht undergoes mandatory safety checks during winter. This ensures full compliance with Croatian maritime regulations and international standards.

We inspect and service:

• life jackets
• liferafts
• fire extinguishers
• EPIRB and MOB devices
• flares and signaling equipment
• safety lines and deck emergency gear

Anything outdated or damaged is immediately replaced so that each yacht meets all safety requirements before returning to charter.

Pre-Season Checks

As spring approaches, usually around March, we begin reinstalling everything that was removed and stored during the winter months. This includes sails, biminis, sprayhoods, cockpit tables, and all remaining deck equipment. The yachts are gradually equipped and prepared in the order of their first scheduled charters.
By the time April arrives, most of the charter yachts are fully set up, cleaned, and ready to welcome the first guests of the new season.