In-water storage over winter is a feasible option in some regions. However, like all storage options, you’ll have some specific considerations. Photo, Frank Lanier
Now that you’ve finally accepted the sad fact that Old Man Winter is on his way, it’s time to work out the boat storage logistics that will ensure your pride and joy remains safe and secure throughout the cold months ahead. While the severity of winter weather in your area is a major consideration when choosing your best winter boat storage option, other factors to consider include cost, convenience, ease of access, and security. Your storage goal is to balance each of these, while ensuring your boat is properly protected.
Primary winter storage options include wet storage (keeping your vessel in the water) or dry storage (hauling and storage ashore). Storage ashore can be further broken down into outdoor or indoor storage. Outdoor storage can include paved or unpaved lots, while indoor storage can range from open sheds to fully enclosed, heated facilities. Here are some considerations for each.
| Storage Option | Storage Option | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| In Water | Convenient; avoids hauling; no haulout fee; water may keep hull warmer | Deicing may be needed; ice/waves/lines require attention; greater sinking exposure |
| Outdoor on Land | Generally less expensive; easier access; convenient for winter projects | Requires a good cover; exposed to weather; proper blocking/support essential |
| Indoor | Best protection and security; possible climate control/workspace | More expensive; access/work may be restricted; winterization may still be needed |
| Trailer | Flexible; can potentially be stored at home or another location | Drainage, trees/debris, wind exposure and trailer-site security matter |
Depending on your region, in-water storage can be a viable alternative to hauling for the winter. It offers convenience (particularly in the case of private docks) as well as no vessel transportation hassles or haulout fees. In-water storage can also be easier on the boat (regarding supporting the hull) unless blocked really well ashore, and even then, movement from persistent winter winds can be a problem. Finally, in-water storage can result in a warmer boat, as warmer water (rather than colder air) surrounds the hull.
In addition to the normal requirements for outdoor storage (boat covers, removal of easily pilferable equipment, and the like) you’ll also need a dependable deicing system if located in an area where the water of your slip can freeze.
Both bubblers and propeller deicers (i.e., ice-eaters) operate by bringing warmer water from the bottom to displace cooler surface water. As such, you’ll need to evaluate your slip to determine if it’s deep enough to provide that warmer water. Another concern is protection from moving ice floes, which could cause damage to the gelcoat, or worse, to the hull itself.
Disadvantages to wet storage include the same ones associated with outdoor dry storage, plus additional concerns regarding items such as mooring lines, wave action, ice movement and, of course, the added possibility of sinking in extreme cases should problems occur.
Hauling your boat for winter is an additional cost to figure into your budget. Photo, Frank Lanier
Outdoor dry storage is generally cheaper than indoor options, but access and work can be limited by weather. Photo, Stacey Nedrow-Wigmore
Outdoor dry storage is a popular choice among boat owners for several reasons. Compared to indoor storage, it’s cheaper, access is generally easier, and it can provide more flexibility when working on those winter projects or prep work for that much-anticipated spring launch.
One key requirement for outdoor storage is a suitable cover to protect your boat from the elements. Choices here can include inexpensive tarps, shrinkwrapping (ask about recyclable options), or even custom-built canvas enclosures costing thousands of dollars.
Each type of covering has its own set of pros and cons regarding ease of vessel access, cost, and longevity (whether designed to last a single season or several). At a minimum, the cover you choose should be strong, breathable, water-resistant, and provide adequate ventilation to protect against mold and mildew.
Regardless of the type of cover you choose, it will last longer and provide more protection when used with a sturdy framework. A well-supported cover not only sheds snow and ice more readily but also experiences less movement and flapping during those strong winter winds, which can lead to chafe and abrasion damage to hull finishes.
Indoor storage often means you can complete some projects in a climate-controlled environment. Photo, Frank Lanier
Indoor dry stack storage is convenient, but access to your boat may be more limited than with other options. Photo, Getty Images
Indoor storage provides your boat the ultimate in security and protection from the elements. As mentioned previously, indoor storage facilities can either be unheated or climate-controlled. Many facilities offer bay-type storage areas, which provide workspace and amenities (electrical outlets, for example).
All this convenience comes at a price, however. Indoor storage is more expensive than outside storage, although this cost can be offset to a degree by not having to purchase a cover or, if in a heated indoor storage space, by saving you the cost of winterizing the engine or various systems aboard your boat.
I recommend winterizing the boat regardless – that way you’re protected should a winter storm knock out electricity (and heat) to the storage facility. You’ll also want to check your insurance policy, as many will not cover freeze damage unless a vessel’s systems are winterized, with some additionally requiring it be done by a professional.
Other possible cons to indoor storage include limited access (i.e., during normal facility working hours only) and, in some cases, rules limiting or prohibiting owners from working on their boats.
Storing your boat in close quarters creates a shared-responsibility environment, so most indoor storage facilities will have rules to protect other boats from harm. Typical examples of the type of activities banned from most indoor storage facilities include projects that produce dust, sparks (grinding, for example), or those involving the use of open flames.
Because of this increased potential of fire (due to numerous boats in close proximity of each other), you’ll want to check the storage facility’s fire-protection and insurance coverage, as well as its insurance requirements for your own vessel.
Boat storage fees are typically based on your boat’s overall length or square footage (length x beam) plus any extra services requested (e.g., winterization, access to electricity, shrinkwrapping). Location and convenience of the storage facility can also play a factor.
Winter storage fees can be based on a monthly, seasonal, or annual basis. Many facilities offer package deals (e.g., storage plus winterization) and contractual incentives, such as discounted winter storage if paid in full prior to a certain date or when combined with an annual slip or storage agreement.
Compare each option closely to determine which provides you the best overall value in terms of both cost and convenience. The upside to outdoor storage is lower costs, however, being inside may mean that boat project work can be done in relative comfort throughout the winter.
Be sure to include any additional expenses when making your decision, such as haulout fees or boat transportation costs to and from the facility. As with any purchase or commitment, shop around for the best deal, but at the same time, make sure the business you’re dealing with is reputable and able to care for your boat as advertised.
No matter how or where you store your boat, always visit and check on it regularly and often!
The easiest place to start searching for boat storage is the marina you use during the boating season. Many marinas offer multiple storage options, often as a package deal that can include other services, such as haulout, shrinkwrapping, and vessel winterizing services.
Stop by and check out any potential storage facility prior to committing. It should be clean, organized, well-lit, well-maintained, and have ample security measures in place to protect your boat against theft. Word-of-mouth recommendation from other boaters is a good sign. Take the time to research multiple storage facilities in your area to determine which provides the best protection for your boat at a price you can afford.
No matter where you store your boat over winter, you’ll want to check on it often. Photo, Frank Lanier
While any checklist will be dependent on your specific boat storage situation, here are some general tips and guidelines that are applicable in many cases. Note that this is not a winterization checklist for your boat, but keep in mind that unless your boat is inside a heated storage area with no risk of heating loss, winterization of systems and equipment will also be required
Published: October 2026
Contributing Editor, BoatUS Magazine
Frank Lanier is a marine surveyor with over 30 years of experience in the marine and diving industry. He holds a 100GT master's license, and has captained and maintained many different types of vessels.