What's included
Everything your boat needs
to survive the winter properly.
Each lay-up is carried out to a documented checklist — not abbreviated because the weather is bad or the yard is busy. Every system gets the attention it requires.
Engine winterisation
Raw water circuit flushed with fresh water, then protected with antifreeze to the correct concentration. Fuel stabiliser added. Oil level checked. A properly winterised engine starts cleanly in spring and doesn't spend the first week of the season in the yard.
Freshwater system drain-down
All tanks, pipes, and hot water calorifiers drained to prevent freeze damage. Sea cocks closed and greased. Heads flushed and treated with non-toxic antifreeze where required.
Bilge dry-out & inspection
Bilge pumped dry and dried out where possible. Bilge pump float switch and automatic function tested. Any water ingress points identified and documented — winter is the right time to investigate, not ignore.
Battery care
Batteries disconnected from the boat's systems and charged to long-term storage level. Battery condition assessed and noted. A battery left connected and uncharged over winter will often not start an engine in March.
Anode inspection & replacement
Hull and shaft anodes inspected and replaced where consumption exceeds 50%. Leaving depleted anodes over winter leaves unprotected metal exposed to corrosion for months.
Cover & cradle
Boat covered securely with a breathable cover fitted to prevent pooling. Cradle condition checked and adjusted. A poorly supported hull left on a cradle over winter can develop stress points in the GRP.
How we work
The process, from lift to cover.
Every lay-up follows the same sequence. No steps skipped because it's cold or late in the day.
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01
Initial inspection
We carry out a full above-waterline inspection before lift — noting any damage, wear, or maintenance items to address over the winter period. You receive a written summary before we start work.
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02
Lift & yard preparation
We coordinate lifting and transport to the winter berth. The boat is positioned on a properly adjusted cradle or padded supports, and the mast is stepped down if required.
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03
Mechanical & systems work
Engine winterisation, freshwater drain-down, bilge work, and battery care all carried out in sequence to a documented checklist. Nothing is skipped because it's cold or late in the day.
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04
Covering & security
A breathable winter cover is fitted and secured. All hatches, companionways, and ports checked closed and latched. Ventilation left open to prevent condensation build-up.
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05
Condition report & handover
A written report of the vessel's condition, everything carried out, and any work we recommend over winter. Photographs of anything notable. You know exactly what state your boat is in and what's waiting for spring.
Common questions
Winter lay-up — what owners ask.
When should I lay my yacht up for winter?
Most owners on the east coast lay up between October and November, once sailing has finished for the season. The key is not to leave it too late — a proper lay-up takes time to do properly, and rushing it in cold, wet weather increases the chance of corners being cut. We recommend booking in September for an October lift.
What does a professional lay-up include?
A thorough lay-up covers engine winterisation (raw water flush and antifreeze protection), freshwater system drain-down, bilge dry-out and inspection, battery disconnection and storage charging, anode check and replacement where needed, cover fitting or cradle preparation, and a written condition report of anything to address over winter.
Do you offer spring recommissioning as well?
Yes. We offer a full spring recommissioning service that picks up where the lay-up left off — engine recommissioning, freshwater refill, battery reconnection and condition check, rigging inspection, antifouling, and launch. Book lay-up and recommissioning together and we manage the vessel through the entire off-season.
Can you store my boat on your premises?
We work with local yards on the North Norfolk coast and can coordinate lifting, transport, and winter storage on your behalf. Contact us to discuss your requirements and we'll confirm what's available for the coming season.
How should I prepare my engine for winter?
The raw water cooling circuit must be flushed and protected against freezing — this is the most critical step, as a cracked heat exchanger or manifold is an expensive repair. Fuel stabiliser should be added to prevent degradation and bacterial contamination over winter. The battery should be disconnected and maintained at storage charge level. We carry out all of this as part of a standard lay-up.