Winter Storage Puget Sound

[gigharborite]

I have a new Cutwater 30CB with no trailer. I am planning on dry storing the boat over the winter. Is this a good idea (as opposed to mooring)? If so, any recommendations for a good storage facility (I am in the South Sound area).

 

[Salish Seaker]

We checked out Foss Landing Marina on the Thea Foss Waterway. It has a big indoor dry storage facility. I think I remember the rates being fairly reasonable. You could drive your boat straight to it without requiring a trailer. Check it out!

 

[baz]

I assume a full time moorage fee for you boat in the Seattle area would be $500/month (be it an open slip or covered). If you consider dry storage for 6 winter months then the cost saving would be Dry storage cost - $3,000. Your underwater zincs would also be less prone to erosion as well in dry storage and boat likely to be kept cleaner all round.

Why are you considering dry storage ? Cost ? Less maintenance ?

My fear with dry storage is that a prolonged dry storage may 'dry out' things (engine, running hardware, etc) to much and also limited access to the boat maybe in a secure storage place.

Would boat Insurance be less if storing boat out of the water for 6 months of the year ?

 

[gigharborite]

Thanks baz and Salish Seaker. I currently have sheltered moorage behind my home during the season.

I am not concerned about cost, but rather in reducing maintenance and wear on the boat by leaving it salt water when it is not in use. In addition I am out of state all winter and don’t want to leave it in the water behind my home when I am not here. I could get a slip at a marina in Gig Harbor but again, more time in the salt (unless that should not be a significant consideration).

So am I correct to be looking for an open or enclosed dry storage option for the winter? I will check out Foss Landing, that sounds like a good option if they have capacity. Any others I should check out, I don’t mind storing it anywhere from Olympia to Seattle.

 

[Cutwater28GG]

Just my perspective as mine boat is in the salt all year. I really dont think the wear and tear downside is that high.

with the boat out of water you have to be much more careful with winterizing as the warm PNW water doesnt provide your boat with a blanket.
There is also no chance to run the engine. sitting for 6 months is not ideal.
the bottom paint doesnt wear much as growth is low due to colder temps.
yes you may have to do 1 extra zinc change but thats not a huge cost with a diver
a good marina can keep an eye on the boat for you whilst you are away. with the seacock closed and a newer boat, the biggest danger is fire from a neighbours boat. thats an insurance job even if you were local anyway.