How to Choose a Boatyard for Winter: Tips for Cruisers

When summer ends and the sails come down, many cruisers face the same question: where should the boat spend the winter? Choosing a yard is not just about finding space on land. It’s about matching the yard’s services and rules with your own plans. Do you want to do the work yourself? Or would you rather hand everything to professionals? Both options are fine, but they lead you to different choices.

Service Providers: Will You Hire Help?

If you prefer to let experts handle maintenance, the first thing to ask is whether those experts can reach the yard. In some marinas, outside contractors need to pay an entry fee, or in some cases they are not allowed at all. That can limit your choice of who works on your boat. Ask clearly: can I bring in my own mechanic, rigger, or painter?

The second point is proximity. If the yard has its own in-house team, that might be easy — but it often comes at a higher price. If you have trusted people elsewhere, you’ll want a yard where they can come without too many restrictions. Accessibility matters here: is the yard close to main roads, or hidden away where service vans struggle to reach?

Doing It Yourself: Tools, Water, and Comfort

Many sailors prefer to roll up their sleeves. If you want to do the work yourself, then the yard’s facilities become critical. Start with the basics: does the yard have water and electricity available 24/7 at the hardstand? Without them, even small jobs become complicated.

Next, think about comfort. Can you stay onboard while hauled out? Some yards allow it, some forbid it for safety reasons. If not, what are your options? Is there a hotel nearby, or will you need a car to drive back and forth every day? These are simple but important details that can make a winter refit either smooth or stressful.

Even when staying on board is allowed, check whether there are showers, toilets, and a laundry in the yard. You’ll appreciate them after a day of sanding or painting. And don’t forget yacht chandlers: having a shop nearby that stocks sandpaper, epoxy, and spare parts will save you time and endless car trips.

Location and Access

A good yard is not only about what’s inside the gates. Look at what’s around it too. If you’ll be flying home, is there an airport nearby? If you expect friends or crew to join, is the area reachable by bus or train? Some yards are excellent technically but feel very isolated. Others may be close to towns with cafes and shops, which makes the off-season far more pleasant.

Safety and Security

Leaving your boat on the hard means trusting it to the yard’s security. Ask if they have cameras, fences, or night guards. Insurance companies also want to know these details, so check what your policy requires. It’s also worth asking about weather. Is the yard exposed to winter storms, or is it sheltered inland? A little geography can make a big difference in peace of mind.

Rules, Costs, and Transparency

Every yard has its own rules. Some forbid sanding or spray-painting without special permission. Others require you to use their own crane operators, even for small lifts. Before signing, ask for a copy of the yard rules.

Costs also vary widely. Some charge by the length of your boat, others by square meter, and some by the day. Watch for hidden extras like “environmental fees,” “liveaboard charges,” or high rates for electricity use. A cheap daily rate can become expensive once the extras are added.

Community and Experience

Finally, don’t forget the human side. Some yards have a strong community of wintering sailors, where people share tools and advice. Others are purely industrial places, with little chance to meet fellow cruisers. Depending on your style, either can be fine — but it’s worth knowing before you haul.

Asking around helps. Cruiser forums, sailing Facebook groups, and dockside conversations often give a clearer picture than brochures. Many sailors are happy to share their yard experiences, both good and bad.

Sailing Into Winter

Choosing a boatyard for winter is about matching the place with your own needs. If you want professionals, check how easily they can access the yard. If you want to do it yourself, make sure you’ll have water, power, and comfort. Add in security, transparency on costs, and a good location, and you’ll know your boat is safe until spring.

👉 If you’re thinking ahead for next season, you may also enjoy our guides to Best Marinas in Greece for Liveaboards and Cost of Living on a Boat in Greece.

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❓ FAQs About Choosing a Boatyard for Winter

Can I live on my boat while it is on the hard?

It depends on the yard. Some allow liveaboards with access to water and electricity, others forbid it for safety. Always ask before you haul out.

How much does winter storage usually cost?

Prices vary by country and by yard. Some charge per meter of boat length, others by square meter. Watch for extra fees like electricity, water, or “liveaboard charges.”

Do all boatyards allow DIY maintenance?

No. Some yards let you do sanding, painting, or engine work yourself. Others require you to use their in-house services. Ask about the rules before you book.

What should I look for if I want to do my own work?

Check for 24/7 access to electricity and water, nearby chandlers for supplies, and showers or toilets on site. These small details make the job much easier.

Is boatyard security important?

Yes. If you leave the boat for months, you’ll want fences, cameras, or guards. Insurance companies may also ask for proof of yard security.