sailboat haul out cost

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Are these reasonable Haul out fees?

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Hi everyone, A couple buddies and I just bought an Ericson 27 and are about to haul it out for a survey. While it's out, we're going to put a new bottom coat on it. We plan on doing all the work ourselves because a) it's cheaper and b) good experience. It's our first boat, so I just wanted a quick opinion on what we were quoted (southern California area): $144 for the actual haul out $118 to pressure wash $3/ft/day for storage (~$75 a day, no free days) $50 for every gallon of paint we bring ourselves $54 for a hazardous waste fee The engine doesn't currently run, so we're pretty much stuck with the yard in our marina. Thanks in advance for any replies! --Andrew ps. I searched the forums and didn't find anything that directly answered this, but that might have been due to my own inabilities! apologies in advance if there are already a million posts asking this =X

Not too out of line. I think most boatyards really make a killing on the power wash. I was surprised that most of them charge $3+ for pressure washing, usually about a half- hour's job.

At the end of 2008 I paid $10.45/ft for a short haul plus 3.55/ft for the power washing. It was on the north shore of L.I. I felt like I was being robbed, then I found out the cost of winter storage. I would expect you to have to pay some type of fee for the paint. If you used their paint that fee is built in to them overcharging you for crap paint. The hazardous waste fee seems funny because you won't actually have any hazardous waste if they do a good job painting. You can offer to dispose of the empty paint cans, trays and brushes yourself. Their is probably a much cheaper way to dispose of that stuff and it would be funny to hear their response when you offered to do this. I wonder what they charge for a week or a month of storage on the hard during the summer. 4.37/ ft for power washing seems steep. I would shop around. I found a 100% difference in winter storage prices within a 15 mile radius so they aren't all the same even though they are all overpriced. Some yards will let you paint which will save you some money and give you the confidence that a proper prep and paint job has been done, but they are few and far between.

Couple of questions. Why do you have to haul it for a survey. Why do you have to have a survey right now. Why not fix the engine first. Also the marina sounds like one that going to get you ten ways from sunday. I don't know if you asked or not but does the $144 cover the trip back in or is it $144 each way. I would call around and check the other yards and prices. I'm willing to bet you can find a better deal. That $50 for paint you bring is shady in the worst way and if your paying $3 per foot per day then you should be in the work space and that should include the waste disposal. I could see requiring a deposit to make sure you don't leave waste behind but requiring a flat fee sounds funky. Even if the engine isn't running you can tow the boat somewhere else, but unless you have a really compelling reason to haul before you fix the engine, I would pick that first.

Thanks for the responses everyone, greatly appreciated. We need the survey to get the insurance which is required by marina (in the next couple of weeks.) I called and asked and the insurance does require a haul out for the survey. We figure since we're going to have to pony up for the haul out, we may as well get the bottom painted (it's been a few years). My buddy did the calling, and he didn't catch if the $144 was one way or both. I think I'm going to call tomorrow and see if they give me the same numbers. We're currently working on the engine (we think a water pump will do the trick), but i'm a little wary to fire it up without checking the propeller and all that first (haul out makes that pretty easy too.) I think the "master plan" is to get it out and do the bottom paint/blisters now and any through hull fittings that need replacing (crosses fingers for none). Spend the summer working on above water items. Then in the winter haul it out and do whatever is left (I'd imagine it would be a lot cheaper). We're still new to the whole boat thing, so if we're doing something stupid, feel free to let me know, I won't be insulted. That being said, we're pretty excited to get our hands dirty and get our girl back into tip top shape.

If you are in New Jersey power washing is about to get VERY expensive. On September 19th I believe the new ZERO discharge rules go in to effect. Marinas will now be required to capture all water, NONE may go back into the waterway, and if a laundry list of hazardous chemicals are reduced below a certain level you'll be able to discharge ONLY into the sanitary sewer. I'm in the waste water business and I was working on this issue with the marina that my boat is in. The marina was sold and I spoke to the new owner about it. It is apparent that they haven't a clue. This is going to hit the industry like a bombshell. The reason I got involved is because the former owner was a member of the NJ marina association. Varoious companies were demonstrating different technologies to the group, and as of January NONE of them worked! We could do the job with the technology we use (embranes), but it would likely cost way too much to process such small quantities, yet the hauling costs for zero discharge are HUGE! Gary H. Lucas

The fees quoted seem absurdly high, at least based in my experience hauling my 38 footer in a yard in the heart of Annnapolis. My last haul included a haul and block, powerwashing, 45 days out of the water, lifting the boat so the rudder could be removed and resetting the poppets, lifting the boat so the rudder could be re-installed and resetting the poppets, and the launch and suspension in the slings for a leak check on the new thru-hulls and with tax was still less than $1,000. Here is a link to the fee schedule at the yard I used... Eastport Yacht Center - Annapolis, MD - Marina Yard Fees for Your Boat or Yacht Jeff

My last haul was in April 08 and the charge was $11.00 per foot. Included trip both ways, power wash, block and 5 days in the yard. I sanded and repainted the bottom with 2 coats. No other charges. I think they normally charge $15.00 per day yard fee for each day on the hard but because of my short stay they let me slide. I also docked at this marina. I think the fee for boats not docking at the marina is $15.00 per foot for haul wash and block and $15.00 per day in the yard.

You are in Southern California. These are not unreasonable fees. You are right in doing the bottom while it is out, you won't have to touch it for a few years if you use a monthly dive service. Obviously the yard wants you to buy paint from them, so unless you have a killer deal on paint, go ahead and do that and avoid any extra fees. Just out of curiosity, is this at LB Shipyard? Have you tried Colonial?

Have you called a couple other insurance companies. I don't know what coverage your going for but progressive covered me for liability on a 1967 fiberglass boat with no survey. This was for less then another company wanted and they required a survey. So it was an easy choice. I'd still try to get the engine going and the prop spinning before haul out.

I'll try a couple different insurance companies then, maybe I just didn't call enough. It's for the yard in King Harbor. I figured that just like everything else, it's more expensive in socal. =) Thanks again for the advice! I'll let you know what ends up happening

If you are doing a survey then you probably want at least a short haul (meaning they lift it out for the survey then put it right back). One of the most important parts of the survey is hull integrity. I guess if you already own the boat then its less important, but if you're paying for the survey then its worth doing. I would consider doing a short haul for the survey and then worrying about the bottom paint after you haul out for the winter. When I insured with progressive they asked if I had a survey done and I answered that I did, but I now wonder what they would have said if I had said I did not. They never asked me to send a copy of the survey. To answer your question, those fees sound outrageous to me. I'm at a marina with a reputation for nickel and dimeing people, but they would never do anything like what you were reporting. I'm in Rhode Island.

Thanks again for all the replies everyone. After talking to some guys on the dock, it turns out the yard in our marina is really expensive. I wound up calling progressive and they can insure the boat without a survey, but it does cost more per month. The plus side is that once we get the survey done, we can cancel that plan (we'll get a refund for the unused portion) and get a much cheaper plan with the survey. So the now the plan is get the engine working and take it down to wilmington/san pedro towards the end of the season and have it hauled out there where it's much cheaper.

The $75/day would make me run. If there are ANY blisters and you have to wait for the hull to dry, they will own the boat! $50 to bring paint? A fee for haz waste you won't generate? (DIYs are exempt by fed law, you'll save the old paint, and the brushes aren't haz after they dry. Copper is not on the haz list). At $200+ per gallon, you won't waste much. The Inorganics or Metals Arsenic, Barium, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Selenium, Silver Get another marina. They're working you.

there is a yard near me right now offer 8.50 a foot for haul, power wash, blocking, 7 days on the stands and the relaunch. so for my 27 footer it would be 230 or so for a week on the hard all inclusive

scottyt said: there is a yard near me right now offer 8.50 a foot for haul, power wash, blocking, 7 days on the stands and the relaunch. so for my 27 footer it would be 230 or so for a week on the hard all inclusive Click to expand...

I just paid $10 a foot for the haul out and block at a DIY yard on the Cheaspeake. Great folks! It's located at Kent Narrows and the yard is Harrisons. 410-827-7800

Dangerdrew, I don't know if you have come to a decision on insurance yet. When we got our boat 39' the best rate we could find was thru Nationwide's affiliate for yachts, Allied. They beat everyone else by hundreds, they never asked for my survey. Might be worth checking out. michael

Haul/Launch in Florida I just completed painting my bottom at Green Cove Springs Marina (they do not have a website, but Google has their info). I paid $315 for a Hunter 37 to haul/launch, pressure clean, block, move stands, and 5 nights liveaboard in the yard. They have no charge for using outside supplies, and will in fact sell you supplies well below retail. This was my first haul and bottom job and everyone there was friendly and helpful. I traveled a full day each way to use this yard, other people travel much farther. I can attach a rate sheet if people are interested, or contact them directly.

I live in orange county there is a rainbow wast transfer station , they take hazardous waste for free at the yard (paint, tv, etc...)

And I thought I was upset when the yard here raised their rate to 55cents/ft/day. 30' boat in and out+wash down, blocking, environmental fee, tarp and tax comes to about $280+$17/day and you can work on your own boat.....no wonder we get boats up from California (and down from Alaska) to haul out. the 330ton lift is more expensive though. I might have to truck my boat down to Calif and am looking for the least expensive haul out to put it in the water.

Wolfenzee, you might get a better response starting a new thread with the question, preferably with the locale in the title. I think most readers won't read through a 3 year old thread on this topic.

Actually I found out there are some "back water" haul outs down where the boat was built, San Louis Obisbo and that .

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Boat Haul Out

For many, an annual haulout is the end of the boating season. Plan it all out first so it doesn't make you crazy.

Spring and fall are the busiest seasons for hauling. Make sure to plan ahead with your marina to ensure they can fit you into their schedule.

Many boats will have to be hauled by a boatyard or marina at some point. You might think that all you have to do is show up with your boat to be plucked from the water and deposited safely in the yard, but not so fast. Forward planning ensures things go smoothly for you, your boat, and the yard.

Make Arrangements

If your marina has a travel hoist, hauling at your home port is often the most straightforward option: Your boat will already be at the haulout location, and the yard staff may be familiar with it. If it's not possible to haul at your marina, there are specific logistical considerations, not least that you will have to move your boat and deliver it to the yard at the appointed time.

Once you've decided where your boat will be hauled, you need to decide when. Give the yard as much notice as possible: Don't wait until the day before and expect them to be able to accommodate you. Keep in mind that the yard's busy season is during late fall when boats are pulled for winter storage and then again in the spring when boats are relaunched. Schedule accordingly. Jay Leszynski, owner of Merri-Mar Yacht Basin in Newburyport, Massachusetts agrees, "Spring and fall are our busiest times by far. Not only do we have a lot of boats to move, but we have to plan where to put them once they come ashore. Letting us know your plans early helps us a lot".

Cost And Scope

Check with the yard on how much you will be charged for haulout service. Most yards charge by the foot and will often have a minimum fee. In many cases, the cost also includes a relaunch, but you need to be sure. Some yards have haulout contracts. If yours does, read it carefully to know what is — or is not — included. If your yard doesn't have a contract, ask questions and take notes so you are clear about the arrangements.

If you expect your boat to be out for a fairly short time for some maintenance, such as a bottom job, anode change, thru-hull or transducer installation, tell the yard this. If your boat is buried at the back of the lot with other boats parked in front, you may not be able to launch when you want. If you are storing ashore for the winter months, let the yard know when you would like to be launched in the spring, as this will have some bearing on where they place your boat.

Pressure washing the boat is often included in the cost of the haulout.

If you want the yard to do some work on your boat while it's out of the water, talk to them about it up front. If you forget to tell them, it may delay things if they don't have you on the schedule or they don't have the necessary parts in stock.

If you plan to do some or all of the work yourself, talk to the yard about this, too. They may have policies about what you can and can't do yourself. Many marinas prohibit owners from working on their boats, citing insurance or environmental reasons, which is sometimes merely a way of getting more work for their crew. Flexible marinas may allow you to do your own work provided you comply with all rules, such as no hull sanding without a vacuum and laying ground cover under the boat to catch hazards like spilled bottom paint.

Lifting Your Baby

On the actual day of the haul, plan to be there if you can. You'll be able to take a look at just how fouled the bottom is before it's pressure washed and you'll get an idea of how your antifouling paint is working. Most yards do this immediately after the boat is hauled so the fouling doesn't set like concrete. "We always pressure wash a boat as soon as it comes out of the water," Leszynski says. "We have a waste-recovery system, and this ensures any bottom paint, dirt, or other contaminants are contained. Pressure washing is included in the fee for hauling, and we won't move a boat into the yard until it has been washed."

It's normal for the owner to drive the boat into the travel hoist pit unless you have made alternative arrangements. Have plenty of fenders on both sides of the boat to protect the topsides should you be blown sideways. Listen carefully to instructions given to you by the yard staff operating the hoist who will have done this maneuver many times before. You probably won't need docklines because the boat will be going right into the slings, but check with the lift operator. Larger sailboats may have to back in to the pit and even have the backstay removed so the rigging will clear the hoist. The staff won't lift a boat with you or the crew aboard so they'll tell you when to get off and anything else they need you to do before vacating the boat. Don't forget to shut off the engines, air conditioners and other equipment before the boat is hoisted.

When the boat is out of the water, check and replace anodes if they are more than 50 percent wasted.

All tanks should be as empty as possible, and while it may not be practical to drain fuel tanks, it is relatively easy to drain water and waste tanks. Full tanks add significant weight to the boat, and empty tanks will put less strain on the boat's structure when it is sitting in an unnatural element on land.

Before the boat is hauled out of the water, tell the travel hoist operator about any underwater appendages, such as fin stabilizers or pod drives, transducers, speed wheels and other things not easily seen when the boat is in the water that could be damaged by the travel hoist slings. "We are familiar with most boat designs", says Leszynski, "but it is helpful if owners mention things that may be special about their particular boat".

Larger yachts often have what's known as a "graving plan," which is a layout of where blocking and other supports go when the ship is drydocked. Although you probably don't need to go to these lengths, a photo or two of the boat in the slings that you can share with the hoist operator is often appreciated, especially if the boat is rare or an unfamiliar type. A profile shot is the most useful. This is especially true with sailboats, as it will show the keel configuration, the position of any skegs and rudders, and where the shafts exit the boat.

Slings can scratch gelcoat, paint, and varnish. To avoid damage, ensure the yard has and uses soft muffs or plastic sleeves over the webbing on the straps. Once the slings have been correctly positioned, adding those little "sling here" marker labels, available from chandlers, is a great idea and will save time at subsequent haulouts.

On The Hard

If your boat is being lifted for anything more than an hour or so, often called a "short haul," it is likely that it will be placed on blocks in the yard and supported with jackstands. If this is the case, tell the yard about any relevant structural features of your boat. Some downeast powerboats, for example, have hollow keels aft, which could potentially suffer damage if the boat is improperly blocked and supported. In cases like this, blocks should probably run lengthwise rather than athwartships to provide adequate support.

If you plan on doing any work on your boat, you'll most likely need access to power and water. Make sure that you have any necessary extension cords or adaptors as it is often up to you to provide these, not the yard.

As a general rule, the workers in the yard have much experience moving and blocking boats, so it's best to leave it up to them as to how they do it. By all means watch, but don't interfere unless you see something that is wrong or unsafe; if you see a problem, bring it up with the yard manager.

Once the boat is settled into her spot, inspect the jackstands. Ensure they have chains between them to prevent them from spreading, which could cause the boat to fall over. Be sure that the attachment points of the chain to the jackstands are secure. Sometimes the slits in the metal of the frame into which the chain links sit are torn or bent from use, which could result in slipping or failure. If a stand is severely rusted, ask to have it replaced.

Also check the ground beneath the jackstands. If the stands are resting on, for example, sandy or loose soil, and especially if there's a slope, this may present a problem in heavy rains. The majority of jackstands will have three or four legs and unless they are on a solid surface, they should have sturdy plywood pads or other good support placed underneath to distribute the weight over a larger surface area, preventing them from sinking into the ground. If you see any problems, discuss them with management as soon as possible

Sometimes when you are working on your boat, such as when applying antifouling, you may need a jackstand moved. An alternative to moving stands, which will often incur an additional fee, is to have some antifouling paint and brush in hand when the boat is lifted for relaunching and apply some paint to those areas covered by the pads prior to the boat being launched. If you can't be there to touch up the bare spots, often the yard workers will do it for you if you leave the paint and a brush. For your safety, and for that of your boat, do not attempt to adjust or move stands yourself; ask the yard to do it.

While You're At It

Irrespective of what other work you may have to do when the boat's out of the water, now's the time to check the anodes and replace them if they are more than 50 percent wasted. Also use this opportunity to inspect propellers, rudders, transducers, and seacocks. If anything seems amiss and it was not on your original to-do list, attend to it now.

Don't rely on the yard having a ladder. Bring your own, and either take it with you or lock it up when you leave at night.

Launch Time

Once the boat is put back in the water, check the bilges carefully for leaks. Hoses that have been disconnected from thru-hulls have sunk more than one boat. If your boat has a drain plug that was removed when the boat was hauled, make sure that the yard staff know where this is or there may be a delay in getting your boat back into the water. Sometimes, because of shifting hull stresses while the boat isn't supported by the water, shaft alignment may be affected by a haulout, at least temporarily. Be sensitive to this possibility when you run the boat after coming from the hoist.

Pay your bill before launch time, or you may find that your boat can't go back in when you think. Most yards have a saying: "No cash, no splash."

8 Essential Questions To Ask Your Yard

What's the cost of hauling and relaunching? Some yards quote just the haulout price and some include the relaunch in their price. Usually haulouts are charged based on length of boat, but not always, so ask.

Can I work on my boat myself? Not all yards allow you to work on your own boat, often citing insurance concerns. Check on what's allowed if you plan on doing any work yourself.

Are there any "lay days" included? If your boat will only be out for a few days, there may not be any storage charges, but some marinas charge by the day, week, or month as soon as the boat is blocked in the yard.

Is there a fee to bring my boat to the haulout well, and how much is it? If you need the yard to move your boat because you're not able to, there'll most likely be an additional charge. If you're a long-time customer, though, you may be able to get it waived. Bimini or backstay removal may come with an extra fee.

Does the cost include a high-pressure washdown? Most marinas provide this service as part of a haulout, but ask, don't assume.

Where will you put my boat? After hauling, your boat will be blocked ashore. In a large marina, that could mean a long hike from the office or chandlery, and worse, possibly too far from electrical power or water, which you might need.

Can I bring in outside contractors? Marinas want you to use their services and may charge you a fee or even a percentage of your outside contractor bill. Most will require the contractor prove he's properly insured. Some prohibit outside contractors altogether, citing liability, though there is little risk to the marina if you and your contractor have the proper insurance.

When will my boat be relaunched? If you hope to use your boat the next weekend, you could be disappointed if the yard tells you it could be several extra days. Let your yard know in good time when you'd like to go back in the water, but be aware that sometimes tides and weather may preclude you from getting your ideal time and date.

— Charles Fort

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2020 Washington Haul-Out Guide

Before we know it, the accumulation of untreated crud we can’t see creates even greater problems for us (and higher bills) if left untreated. That is why haulouts are important and winter is the perfect time of year to get it done.

We are a lucky bunch in the Pacific Northwest as our region has many boatyards that haul out vessels. Please find in this guide a sampling of haul-out services. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to discuss your specific needs (and don’t worry, they have heard it all!) The important thing is that you make the call and regularly address the maintenance needs of your boat. And when that’s done, you can scout out an air duct cleaning service! Good luck!

Services Guide

Not every boat yard or marina offers every service, but some of the basics are represented at a glance in each entry below.

This year’s guide is organized by region, so click on your destination or read on! South Sound Central Sound North Sound

South Sound

Csr marine south.

N 47°24’ 01.012” | W 122°19’ 42.358”

22501 Dock Ave., Des Moines, WA 98198 www.csrmarine.com 206-878-4414 [email protected]

Haul-out by travel lift for vessels up to 50’ length overall and up to 25 tons.

Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard

N 47°19’ 48.554” | W 122°34’ 49.36”

3117 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 www.gigharbormarina.com 253-858-3535

Haul-outs with 50-ton capacity lift, available for vessels from 15’ to 60’ length overall. This location monitors VHF channel 69.

Hylebos Marina

N 47°16’ 15.913” | W 122°22’ 26.095”

1940 Marine View Dr., Tacoma, WA 98422 www.hylebosmarina.com 253-272-6623

A 35-ton travel lift for boats up to 45’ long, 14.5’ wide and an 80-ton travel lift for boats up to 75’ length overall, 18.5‘ wide.

Modutech Marine

N 47°16’ 25.609” | W 122°22’ 43.336”

2218 Marine View Dr., Tacoma WA, 98422 www.modutechmarine.com 253-272-9319

Three boat lifts are available for haul-outs, including the new 85-ton capacity lift. Vessels can also be hauled out on the railway.

Suldan’s Boat Works

N 47°31’ 51.167” | W 122°40’ 17.815”

1343 SW Bay St., Port Orchard, WA 98366 www.suldansboatworks.com 360-876-4435 [email protected]

Haul-out by marine railway for boats up to 55’ length overall and/or 35 tons. Marine store and moorage available at this location.

Swantown Boatworks

N 47°3’ 21.44” | W 122°53’ 54.703”

650 Marine Drive NE, Olympia, WA 98501 www.portolympia.com 360-528-8059 [email protected]

Haul-out options include an 82-ton travel lift for vessels from 17’ to 80’ in length and up to 21’ wide and a jib crane with a 10,000-pound capacity. Forklift and crane services are also available on site. This location monitors VHF channel 65A.

Yachtfish Marine Northwest

N 47°32’ 14.546” | W 122°38’ 52.152”

53 SW Bay St., Port Orchard, WA 98366 www.yachtfishmarine.com 360-876-9016 [email protected]

A 30-ton capacity travel lift that accommodates vessels up to 50’ length overall is available.

Zittel’s Marina

N 47°9’ 53.459” | W 122°48’ 35.038”

9144 Gallea St. NE, Olympia, WA 98516 www.zittelsmarina.com 360-459-1950 [email protected]

Offers hydraulic trailer haul-outs for vessels up to 42’ and a conolift sling lift for boats up to 50,000 pounds and 52’ in length. Complete bottom painting services. Dry storage is also available.

Central Sound, Seattle, & Lake Washington

Canal boatyard.

N 47°39’ 35.896” | W 122°22’ 13.402”

4300 11th Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107 www.canalboatyard.com 206-784-8408 [email protected]

A 55-ton travel lift, boom truck, and forklift are available for haul-outs.

N 47°39’ 45.228” | W 122°22’ 48.006”

4701 Shilshole Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107 www.csrmarine.com 206-632-2001 [email protected]

Two 70-ton capacity travel lifts are available for vessels up to 75’ length overall.

Delta Marine Industries

N 47°31’ 05.508” | W 122°18’ 42.48”

1608 S 96th St., Seattle, WA 98108 www.deltamarine.com 206-763-2383 [email protected]

Haul-out by a travel lift capable of lifting 440 tons for vessels up to 170’ length overall.

Dagmar’s Marina

N 48°0’ 53.31” | W 122°10’ 38.382”

1871 Ross Ave., Everett, WA 98201 www.dagmarsmarina.com 425-259-6124 [email protected]

Forklift for boats up to 12 tons with a maximum length overall of 38’. Does not haul out sailboats or catamarans. This location monitors VHF channel 77.

LeClercq Marine

N 47°39’ 20.588” | W 122°22’ 11.328”

1080 W Ewing St., Seattle, WA 98119 www.leclercqmarine.com 206-283-8555 [email protected]

Haul-out options include a 35-ton capacity travel lift and 150-ton capacity crane for vessels up to 100’ length overall.

Northlake Shipyard

N 47°38’ 49.117” | W 122°20’ 20.97”

1441 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103 www.northlakeshipyard.com 206-632-1441 [email protected]

Two dry docks available, accommodating vessels up to 1,900 tons and 1,000 tons.

North Lake Marina

N 47°38’54.383 | W 122°20’45.823”

6201 NE 175th St., Kenmore, WA 98028 www.northlakemarina.com 425-482-9465 [email protected]

Haul-out for boats with a max beam of 13’. On-site fiberglass repair and refinishing.

Pacific Fishermen Shipyard & Electric

N 47°40’ 4.163” | W 122°23’ 16.407”

5351 24th Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107 www.pacificfishermen.com 206-784-2562 [email protected]

Options include a 100-foot by 200-ton marine railway, 160-foot by 600-ton marine railway, and the original Rowe 140-foot by 600-ton screw lift dock with 140’ of covered end track rails.

Port of Edmonds

N 47°48’ 30.664” | W 122°23’ 22.442”

336 Admiral Way, Edmonds, WA 98020 www.portofedmonds.org 425-775-4588 [email protected]

Haul-outs available with a 50-ton capacity travel lift, accommodating vessels up to 58’ length overall and with 15.5’ of beam. This location monitors VHF channel 69.

Port of Everett

N 48°0’ 02.58” | W 122°13’ 2.287”

1205 Craftsman Way #105, Everett, WA 98201 www.portofeverett.com 425-388-0678 [email protected]

A 75-ton capacity travel lift available for haul-outs. Plenty of marine businesses nearby, including boat sales and storage, canvas and upholstery, engine repairs and parts, marine supplies, and woodwork. This location monitors VHF channel 16.

Seattle Boat Company

N 47°39’ 15.285” | W 122°19’ 16.739”

659 NE Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98105 www.seattleboat.com 206-633-2628 [email protected]

Haul-out by 14-ton capacity forklift for vessels with a maximum beam of 11’ and length overall of 36’ (yard capabilities determined on a case by case basis after measurement specifications are provided). Seattle Boat Co. does not provide haulouts to sailboats.

Seaview Boatyard (Seaview West)

N 47°40’ 37.237” | W 122°24’ 24.716”

6701 Seaview Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98117 www.seaviewboatyard.com 206-783-6550 [email protected]

55-ton and 80-ton lifts for vessels up to 71’ length overall are offered here.

South Park Marina

N 47°31’ 36.732” | W 122°18’ 44.307”

8604 Dallas Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98108 www.southparkmarina.com 206-763-2383 [email protected]

Haul-out by adjustable trailer for vessels up to 45’ length overall, 30-ton max.

Waypoint Marine Group

N 47°40’ 0.44” | W 122°23’ 40.79”

5350 30th Ave. NW Suite C, Seattle, WA 98107 www.waypointmarinegroup.com 206-284-0200 [email protected]

Haul-out services by a marine lift that accommodates vessels up to 30’ length overall.

Yachtfish Marine

N 47°37’ 47.951” | W 122°19’ 48.174”

1141 Fairview Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109 www.yachtfishmarine.com 206-623-3233 [email protected]

A 60-ton travel lift accommodates haul-outs for vessels up to 70’ length overall. Bottom paint, fiberglass, detailing, and boat restoration services also available.

Yarrow Bay Marina

N 47°39’ 14.969” | W 122°12’ 21.139”

5207 Lake Washington Blvd. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98033 www.yarrowbaymarina.com 425-822-6066 [email protected]

Forklift with 11-foot extensions and 20-foot straps available for haul-outs. It can accommodate vessels weighing up to 15,000 pounds and up to 30’ length overall.

North Sound, San Juans & Bellingham

Albert jensen & sons shipyard.

N 48° 31’ 31.807” | W 122° 59’ 57.318”

1293 Turn Point Road, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 www.jensenshipyard.com 360-378-4343 [email protected]

One 22-ton capacity travel lift available for haul-outs. Both power and sail accommodated. There is a marine store on location.

Cap Sante Marine

N 48° 29’ 54.391” | W 122° 36’ 9.871”

2915 W Ave., Anacortes, WA 98221 www.capsante.com 360-293-3145 [email protected]

Two travel lifts offer haul-outs for vessels up to 50 tons in weight.

Dakota Creek Industries

N 48° 31’ 9.617” | W 122° 36’ 37.992”

820 4th St., Anacortes, WA 98221 www.dakotacreek.com 360-293-9575 [email protected]

Specializing mostly in industrial vessels, haul-out options include cranes for 275-, 175-, 90-, and 60-ton vessels, a Syncrolift Shiplift with a 4,200 ton lifting capacity, a Kamag Transporter for vessels up to 240 tons; and a module transport system for vessels up to 500 tons.

Deer Harbor Boat Works

N 48° 37’ 33.203” | W 123° 0’ 10.108”

155 Channel Rd., Deer Harbor, WA 98243 360-376-4056 [email protected]

Hydraulic trailer and boat ramp available to haul-out vessels weighing up to 20 tons with maximum length overall of 45’. Mechanical repairs, service calls, fiberglass and epoxy work, rigging, long and short term storage. Specializes in wooden boat repair. Marine store on site.

Hilton Harbor Marina

N 48° 45’ 13.365” | W 122° 29’ 33.957”

1000 Hilton Ave,, Bellingham, WA 98225 www.bitterendboatworks.com 360-733-1110

One 12,000-pound capacity hoist for vessels up to 28’ long and 10’ wide are offered. Fuel is also available for purchase.

Islands Marine Center

N 48° 30’ 50.476” | W 122° 54’ 47.685”

2793 Fisherman Bay Rd., Lopez Island, WA 98261 www.islandsmarinecenter.com 360-468-3377

Haul-out by travel lift for vessels up to 25 tons in weight with a maximum beam of 13’. This location monitors VHF channel 69.

La Conner Maritime Services

N 48° 24’ 8.589” | W 122° 29’ 43.504”

920 West Pearl Jensen Way, La Conner, WA 98257 www.laconnermaritime.com 360-466-3629 [email protected]

La Conner Maritime Services operates two travelifts for vessels up to 110 tons in weight with a maximum beam of 24’6”.

Latitude Marine Services

N 48° 22’ 28.981” | W 122° 30’ 23.462”

18578 McGlinn Island Lane, La Conner, WA 98257 www.latitudemarine.com 360-466-4905 [email protected]

A 100-ton capacity sling lift available for haul-outs.

The Landings at Colony Wharf

N 48° 45’ 9.297” | W 122° 29’ 17.447”

1001 C St. A, Bellingham, WA 98225 www.landingscolonywharf.com 360-715-1000 [email protected]

Haul-outs available from a crane with a maximum capacity of 30 tons.

Lovric’s Sea-Craft

N 48° 30’ 40.262” | W 122° 38’ 43.234”

3022 Oakes Ave., Anacortes, WA 9822 www.lovricseacraft.com 360-293-2042 [email protected]

Haul-outs available for boats from 30’ to 150’ length overall. Two marine railways for vessels up to 800 tons in weight with maximum beam of 50’ are available.

Marine Servicenter

N 48° 30’ 9.893” | W 122° 36’ 24.113”

2417 T Ave., Anacortes, WA 98221 www.marinesc.com 360-293-8200 [email protected]

A 55-ton capacity travel lift is available for haul-outs to accommodate vessels with a maximum beam of 18.5’.

Mariner’s Haven

N 48° 17’ 6.828” | W 122° 37’ 52.292”

1701 SE Catalina Dr., Oak Harbor, WA 98277 360-675-8828

Haul-out for both sail and power vessels up to 25 tons and 50’ length overall.

North Harbor Diesel & Yacht Service

N 48° 29’ 54.329” | W 122° 36’ 32.131”

720 30th St. A, Anacortes, WA 98221 www.northharbordiesel.com 360-293-5551 [email protected]

Haul-outs provided by Sea-Lift machines (three available) capable of lifting vessels up to 65’ length overall and weighing up to 45 tons.

North Island Boat Co.

N 48° 29’ 40.312” | W 122° 41’ 4.529”

1910 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA 98221 www.northislandboat.com 360-293-5635 [email protected]

One travel lift for vessels up to 55 tons and one 20-ton capacity hydraulic trailer are available. This location offers marine electronics packages with installation.

On-Board Marine Services

N 48° 59’ 32.225” | W 122° 45’ 44.909”

218 McMillan Ave., Blaine, WA 98230 www.onboardmarineservices.com 360-332-5051

A travel lift for vessels up to 30 tons and marine railways to 250 tons are available. On-Board Marine serves both commercial and recreational vessels.

Pacific Marine Center

N 48° 30’ 11.288” | W 122° 36’ 27.374”

2302 T Ave., Anacortes, WA 98221 www.pacmarinecenter.com 360-299-8820 [email protected]

Two submersible trailers with 30-ton and 45-ton capacity, accommodating boats up to 65’ length overall; a new travel lift for vessels up to 200 tons and 130’ length overall.

Platypus Marine Inc.

N 48° 7’ 21.974” | W 123° 26’ 39.661”

102 N Cedar St., Port Angeles, WA 98363 www.platypusmarine.com 360-17-0709 [email protected]

A 550-ton capacity travel lift and a 50-ton capacity mobile crane are available for haul-outs. Services also available to vessels in the Port of Port Angeles.

Port of Port Townsend (Port Townsend Boat Yard)

N 48°6’ 28.257” | W 122°46’ 29.796”

2790 Washington St., Port Townsend, WA 98368 www.portofpt.com 360-385-6211 [email protected]

Haul-out facilities include 70-75 ton lifts, as well as one travel lift able to lift vessel up to 330 tons, 150’ in length, and a beam of 30.5’ length overall. This location monitors VHF channel 66-A.

N 48°7’ 5.099” | W 122°45’ 11.005”

419 Jackson St., Port Townsend, WA 98368 www.seamarineco.com 360-385-4000 [email protected]

Haul-out facilities located in Point Hudson Marina. The 30-ton capacity travel lift accommodates most vessels up to 52’ length overall.

Seaview North Boatyard

N 48° 45’ 30.83” | W 122° 30’ 18.923”

2652 N Harbor Loop Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225 www.seaviewboatyard.com 360-676-8282 [email protected]

A 165-ton lift and a 35-ton lift available for haul-out for vessels up to 80’ length overall.

Seaview Yacht Services Fairhaven

N 48° 43’ 12.58” | W 122° 30’ 24.46”

805 Harris Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 www.seaviewboatyard.com 360-594-4314 [email protected]

A 35-ton capacity lift is available for haul-outs that accommodates vessels up to 80’ length overall.

West Sound Marina

N 48° 37’ 48.476” | W 122° 57’ 6.937”

525 Deer Harbor Road, Eastsound, WA 98245 www.westsoundmarina.net 360-376-2314 [email protected]

Haul-out services by lift, available for vessels up to 30 tons. This location monitors VHF channel 16.

Westwind Marine

N 48° 58’ 40.752” | W 123° 3’ 46.244”

721 Simundson Dr., Point Roberts, WA 98281 www.westwindmarine.net 360-945-5523 [email protected]

A 35-ton travel lift is available for haul-outs. Marine store and parts on location, as well as technicians for Mercury/Mercruiser, Volvo, and Yanmar.

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What is the average cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat?

Hauling out a 50-foot full keel sailboat can be a challenging and expensive process, especially for first-time boat owners who are not familiar with the costs involved. In this article, we’ll discuss the average cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat, as well as factors that can influence the overall expense.

Hauling out involves removing a boat from the water and placing it on a trailer or cradle so that it can be stored or worked on. The cost of hauling out a boat depends on several factors, such as the size and weight of the vessel, the location of the marina, and the type of services needed.

On average, the cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat can range from $800 to $3,500, depending on the location and the specific marina or boatyard. The cost may also vary based on the type of haul-out equipment used, such as a travel lift or a crane.

In addition to the haul-out fee, there may be additional charges for services such as pressure washing the hull, performing maintenance or repairs, or storing the boat while it is out of the water. For example, some boatyards charge a daily rate for storage, while others may require a longer commitment, such as a monthly or seasonal contract.

It’s important to do your research and compare prices between different marinas and boatyards before choosing a facility for your haul-out. Some marinas may offer discounts for repeat customers or for scheduling the haul-out during a less busy season.

To ensure that you are prepared for the costs of hauling out your 50-foot full keel sailboat, it’s important to budget for the haul-out and any additional services that may be needed. Remember that the cost of the haul-out is just one part of the overall cost of owning and maintaining a boat, so it’s always a good idea to factor in other expenses such as insurance, storage, and routine maintenance.

The average cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat can range from $800 to $3,500, depending on various factors such as location and the specific services needed. Be sure to research and compare prices before selecting a marina or boatyard for your haul-out, and budget for additional expenses as necessary to ensure that your vessel is properly maintained and cared for.

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Tales (not just) from the high seas

Sailboat Haul Out Methods: A Cruiser’s Guide

There are many sailboat haul out methods, but which (and where) would we choose as our favourite in south-east Asia?

We’ve been hauling out our boat, Esper , since 2004 (in south-east Asia since 2014) so we have plenty of experience. But with all that practice, and no matter how competent the yard, it’s always somewhat nerve-racking. A sailboat is supposed to be in the water, isn’t it? And once you put it on land, all kinds of stresses and loads appear that weren’t there when she was floating.

Hauling out is particularly disconcerting when it’s the first time with a new yard and a new method.

That being said, there are some general guidelines and best practices that can help you choose the most appropriate method for hauling out your sailboat. Here are some options to consider:

If your sailboat is small and light enough, you may be able to use a boat trailer to haul it out of the water. It is a cost-effective option, as you can often rent a trailer and do the haul out yourself. But, it may not be suitable for most cruising boats.

Travel Lift

A travel lift is a type of crane that can lift your sailboat out of the water and onto land. It’s a common method for hauling out larger sailboats, and is typically done at a boatyard or marina. It feels safe and sturdy when you’re on your boat as it moves to its new temporary home in the boat yard

As sailor and boat owners, we can tell you that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the best method to haul out a sailboat. The ideal method will depend on a variety of factors, such as the size and weight of the boat, the type of hull, and the location of the haul out facility.

Hydraulic Trailer

A hydraulic trailer is a specialized type of boat trailer that uses hydraulic lifts to raise and lower your sailboat. It is a good option for boats that are too heavy for a regular trailer, but not large enough for a travel lift. The initial outlay is less than a travel lift and many yards in south-east Asia have this option

A railway system uses a cradle on rails to lift your sailboat out of the water onto land. We have seen two of these in south-east Asia (both Thailand) and they seem sturdy.

Ultimately, the best method to haul out your sailboat will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the boat, the location of the haul out facility, your own experience and confidence in the yard. Before making a decision, it’s important to do the research and consult with a professional or other cruisers in the area who may have used the facilities.

Southeast Asia has all of these methods, and here at Medana Bay, they employ the simple tractor and trailer method.

Hauling out on a track at PSS

But before this, when we arrived in south-east Asia, we hauled out at PSS in southern Thailand. There we undertook a total refit and filmed the year-long process. If boat work in exotic locations is your passion check out our TOTAL REFIT playlist .

PSS is a proper old-fashioned fishing boat yard, so it’s not the prettiest of places. They employ a winch and railway system for haul-out. In a nutshell this means that cradle is rolled into the water on a trolley, the boat manoeuvred on to it, then pulled up until the keel is securely resting there.

Once the boat is in place, a winch system pulls the whole caboodle out of the water onto the yard tracks where it is manoeuvred into its parking slot.

Pangkor Marina’s hydraulic lift

Our next haul-out was at Pangkor Marina in Malaysia, where they use a hydraulic lift with inflatable pads.

This is probably our favourite method of haul-out.

You simply park the boat on top of the trolley, the operator inflates the bed, and then the boat is comfortably pulled onto land! Couldn’t have been easier!

The worldwide Travel Lift

Of course, south-east Asia also has classic travel lifts of varying sizes too.

Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina has the most beautiful hard-stand we’ve every encountered. Here, the lift is planted over the slip and you drive your boat into position. There are loads of staff to take lines, hold the boat, and attach slings, allowing you to get off and go for breakfast while the staff haul and park your boat.

But not all yards are created equal, and although Kudat does have a travel lift, we discovered that access to the slip was tricky.

There were unusual currents, countless obstacles and a jagged entrance. And once we made it through the obstacles we were left to rely on help from a sailor mate with a fag in his mouth who caught our line and held us in place (because there was no cleat)!

Jamie reveals our ALL-TIME FAVOURITE ANTI-FOUL PAINT in episode 339 on our YouTube channel . Watch it here on followtheboat or go straight to YouTube.

How often should I haul out my sailboat? It’s recommended to haul out your sailboat at least once a year for routine maintenance and inspections. If you notice any issues or damage, it’s important to haul out your sailboat as soon as possible.

Can I leave my sailboat on the hard for an extended period? Yes, you can leave your sailboat on the hard for an extended period, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to prevent damage. This includes regularly checking the hull and ensuring that the sailboat is properly secured.

How much does it cost to haul out a sailboat? The cost of hauling out a sailboat can vary, always check with the yard first.

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Hauling Out a Boat: Everything You Need to Know About Hauling

Posted by Boat Lover's Towel on December 02, 2022

Boat owners know how important it is to maintain their vessel, especially if that vessel spends most of their time in the water. Annually hauling out a boat isn’t just an option for mariners—it’s expected.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the nuts and bolts of boat hauling so you can be ready for your next voyage.

What Is a Boat Haul-Out?

A boat haul-out removes the vessel completely from the water to inspect and repair its bottom.

Typically, a professional haul-out team can perform your boat hauling.

What Can I Expect During My Boat’s Haul-Out?

So, your boat is no longer water bound. Now what?

Once your vessel is out of the water, several maintenance tasks can be performed. These can include an antifouling bottom job, running gear maintenance, through hull fittings, and more. Let’s take a closer look at these tasks and how they can benefit your boat.

Pressure Wash

Just because your boat has been in the water doesn’t mean it isn’t dirty. Your boat should be given a good wash once it’s out of the water. Use a wash mitt , round boat brush , and a handy extension pole to scrub those hard-to-reach areas.

Running Gear Maintenance

Many boat owners and captains have an inkling if their running gear isn’t working properly. This is usually indicated by poor engine performance. Once your boat is hauled and blocked, your service team will clean or foul your running gear. They will also inspect your strut bearings and engine mounts.

Through Hull Fittings

Your service team will perform a thorough inspection of all through hull fittings. Seacocks are fitted into all inlets for the engines, generators, drains, and other outlets. Once in place, the service team will inspect the through hull fittings and seacocks, remove any marine growth, and look for any corrosion.

Antifouling Bottom Painting

Antifouling is a paint applied to the surface of a boat hull to reduce the number of barnacles and other sea life that attach themselves to it. As many boat owners say, it’s smart to keep the bottom of your boat as clean as its top .

How Much Does Boat Hauling Cost?

The boat haul-out cost depend on the yard and team you choose, but you can expect to pay around $26 per foot. Cost can include running gear maintenance, through hull fittings, and bottom painting.

Contact your local boat hauling service crew for an accurate estimate.

We Make Boat Cleaning Easy at Boat Lover’s Towel

Now that your boat has been hauled, inspected, and painted, you should hit the water in style. Using an ultra-absorbent towel to wipe away harmful water spots is an easy way to prevent mold and mildew, and will keep the top of your boat sparkling clean.

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Hauling Out

Hauling Out and Laying-Up Ashore

Unless you're lucky enough to keep your boat someplace where you can sail all year around, you're going to face the annual chore of hauling out and laying her up ashore for several months each year.

If your cruising ground is in the higher latitudes then you'll probably want to haul your boat out during the autumn to avoid the rigours of the winter weather.

In tropical regions it's not snow and ice you need to worry about; it's much worse - hurricanes, or depending on your location, cyclones or typhoons.

These malevolent monsters can occur during the summer and autumn months, so the prudent boater will looking to haul out in late spring.

Either way, your first concern will be in having your boat hauled out of the water safely and without damage, but there are a couple of things to attend to first...

Before Hauling Out...

Some things are best done before hauling out, while the boat's still afloat. For example...

1 - Getting the Sails Off

Now's the time to get the sails down, flaked and bagged - and it's much easier to do with the boat head to wind, which she may well not be when laid up ashore.

And it's never a good idea to leave furling headsails in place; they have a habit of unfurling in a blow.

2 - Changing the Engine Oil

Condensation will have collected on internal engine surfaces throughout the season and this is now contained within the oil. This can cause damage if left in the engine over the winter, so it should be changed along with the oil filters.

The oil should be warm and viscous or it won't drain properly, so now's the time to do it - just before hauling out.

On Hauling Out...

This always gets the pulse rate up and the sphincter muscle twitching - if you're the owner that is. Now, about those strops...

Positioning the Strops

Lifting strops can do a deal of damage to underwater parts during haul-out if they're incorrectly positioned. Particularly vulnerable are the rudder, the propeller and shaft, and the thru-hull log impeller.

I always place a length of blue masking tape on the hull sides to let the crane driver know where to put the strops.

Make sure the yard staff put some protection between the hull side and the strop - a sheet of cardboard is fine.

Beware of the Squeeze

If a crane is used for the haul-out, the strops will be hung from a single hook which will impose a pinching load on the hull topsides.

The beamier the boat and the shorter the strops, the greater this load will be.

Stanchions, toe-rails and guard wires are at risk here - you may need to route the strops inside the guard wires to avoid damaging them, particularly for the stern strop.

Masthead instruments too are vulnerable.

There's no problem at all if the crane driver fits a spreader bar to open up the stern strop, but that means removing the back stay - a prospect which few owners relish, swept back spreaders or not.

Using a crane for hauling out is very much weather dependent. High Winds? Forget it!

Lifting out a sailboat with a travel hoist

Larger boatyards with a purpose-built dock will likely use a travel hoist instead of a crane.

The wider spread of the strops completely eliminates the crushing loads on the hull but means the boats can't be stacked as closely together - unless that is, they've got one of these...

This is a boat handling trolley, which works in conjunction with a travel hoist.

Some are designed to be towed, but others - like this one at Spice Island Marine in Grenada - are motorised.

Another approach to hauling out is by forklift. These were originally developed for the dry storage of small powerboats in racks.

In this case the large rubberised forks are slid under the boat's flat chines which can be raised and lowered as required.

Sailboats can't be supported on the forks in this way, so they're dealt with by slinging in strops as shown above.

In the yard where this shot was taken - Yacht Haven Quay, Plymouth - they haul out sailboats with their Wiggins 'Marina Bull' Forklift, the largest of which can handle sailboats of up to 10,000lb and lift heights of up to 54 feet.

Breezy conditions raise no problems with a forklift, and the absence of a crane hook means there's no risk of damage to the masthead instruments.

Tripod Jackstands or a Boat Cradle?

If you're using tripod jackstands you'll need at least two either side of course - for my 38 footer I have four either side and one under the bow.

Unless you're on a concrete hardstanding, each leg of every tripod should be supported by a square of plywood or planking to prevent the foot of the tripod sinking into the ground during heavy rain.

Each tripod should be chained to its mate on the opposite side of the boat - better still instead of chains, use a network of welded rebar tie-rods to prevent the tripods moving.

Sailboat safely laid up in a robust cradle, and tied down to ground anchors

Make sure the boat is leveled up such that rainwater will escape through the cockpit drains. A spirit level will be useful here.

For ultimate boat security during the lay-up season, nothing beats a properly designed cradle, particularly if the boat is strapped down to ground anchors too...

Now the Real Work Starts...

If you keep your boat in the Caribbean, you really should take a look at

'Choosing a Boatyard for the Caribbean Hurricane Season...'

High wind, heavy rain, freezing winters and tropical summers will all conspire to play havoc with your pride and joy.

Inside the boat condensation, corrosion and mildew will be similarly at work.

Here's what you need to do to counteract their malevolent intent:~

Anchor & Chain

Drop the anchor and chain onto a clean surface (an old pallet is ideal), thoroughly rinse in fresh water and allow to dry. Similarly clean the anchor locker before re-stowing the anchor and chain. This is also a good opportunity to check the condition of the chain and galvanising.

Running Rigging

All running rigging including the mainsheet tackle, the kicker assembly, sheets, lazy jacks, sheets and other control lines should be removed and soaked in a mild detergent solution, then allowed to soak in fresh water before drying naturally.

Tie messenger lines to the ends of all your halyards, remove them and clean them as above.

If you choose not to remove your halyards, make sure they're tied off well clear of the mast, otherwise the constant slapping will damage the mast anodising.

Thru' Hull Fittings

I like to remove my thru' hull log impeller and depth sounder transducer for two reasons:

It improves ventilation;
If rainwater does get below, it will drain out;

But if you're in an area where insects and other undesirable wildlife are a problem, then the apertures should be covered by a rot-proof mesh and stuck down with tape as shown here.

Who's not discovered a seacock that was operating flawlessly at the end of one season to be seized solid at the beginning of the next? Here's how to avoid that happening:

Have one person inside the hull operating the seacock, and another outside armed with a can of non-petroleum based aerosol penetrating lubricant;
With the seacock open, spray a load of oil up through the seacock into the pipe above, then loudly shout "Close!" ;
Leave, for the time being, that particular seacock and move on to the next one. This will allow the oil to run onto the barrel of the seacock and do its penetrating stuff;
When all seacocks have been dealt with in this way, go back to the first one and open and close it several times. Providing it operates freely, leave it closed and move on to the next one. For any that don't open and close easily, repeat the process until it does.

What you definitely don't want in your fuel is 'cladisporium resinae' which is the correct term for the well known diesel bug that can cause havoc with our engines.

Here's how to prevent this malevolent fungal growth from taking up residence in your fuel:~

Fill your fuel tank completely, so that there's little or no air space above the fuel in the tank. Why? Well, it's here that condensation would otherwise occur, and our little bug friend needs water to establish itself and multiply;
Treat the fuel with a biocide designed to kill the little blighters if they've managed to get established despite your efforts.

Not sure if your fuel is contaminated? There are several diesel fuel bug detector kits on the market that will tell you one way or the other.

Exhaust Waterlock

These moulded plastic devices collect water that drains back from a wet exhaust system, preventing it from running back into the engine, and also reducing the noise in the exhaust system.

They're usually fitted with a drain plug for draining out any water before the winter lay-up. If you don't do this, you risk any contained water freezing and splitting the waterlock.

And you should also disconnect the engine-side hose. If you don't, particularly in hot climates, any remaining water in the waterlock will evaporate and the water vapour will find its way into the top end of the engine, causing havoc with the valves.

You might not want to remove the mast every year - particularly if the yard you're in has no mast storage racks - but doing so every four years or so for a close inspection and overhaul makes good sense.

As a minimum the aft end of the boom should be lashed down on deck, but it's better to remove it completely and lay it on the side-deck or coach-roof.

Cutless Bearing

Also known as Cutlass Bearings, these water lubricated devices are fitted inside the P-Bracket, supporting the shaft and maintaining its alignment with the gearbox. Check your shaft for movement within the bearing. If there's anything more than the slightest movement, you need to fit a new one.

This is the time to check all sacrificial anodes. If they're significantly eroded they should be renewed. If they don't appear to be eroding much at all, it's not a cause for celebration - you need to find out why they're not doing what they're supposed to do, so check all connections and contact surfaces.

Incidentally, if your boat's propeller shaft is supported by a P-bracket it's always worth fitting a shaft anode ahead of it. Then, if your shaft coupling fails, your propshaft won't slide out through the hull leaving a hole that could sink you.

Here, the owner has fitted three shaft anodes, but they're a little too close to the P-bracket.

Why? Well the cutless bearing requires a thru-flow of water to lubricate it, and in this arrangement the proximity of the anodes is diverting the water flow around it. Expect it to wear out soon.

So fit the shaft anode at least 3" (75mm) or so forward of the bearing, allowing the anode the lubrication it's entitled to, which will extend its life considerably.

Batteries, Windcharger & Solar Panels

You can either make sure your batteries are fully charged, then disconnect them to reduce current drain to a minimum, or leave the battery bank connected to a solar or wind-powered charging device.

One of the small vertical axis trickle charge wind generators is ideal for this, but their more muscular horizontal axis cousins may well overcharge the batteries or destroy themselves in a winter storm. In my view they're best tied up in such a way that the blades can't rotate but allows the whole thing to weathercock into the wind.

Solar panels too are excellent for keeping the batteries topped up during the winter lay-up, their charge being much reduced due to the low altitude of the sun and the short daylight hours.

But if you do choose to keep them charged in this way, you should also leave a low current electrical device switched on, as batteries like to 'work'. Not a GPS set though, because prolonged use may damage the screen - as I found out to my cost.

Read the makers instructions for details of how to prepare it for a long lay-up. Our Katadyne needs to be biocided (I may have created a new verb there) if it is to produce anything other than disappointment on next year's cruise.

The Gas System

Light all burners, then turn off the gas at the bottle remembering to turn the burners off when they go out.

Remove all canvas covers - sprayhoods (that's 'dodgers' in US speak) dodgers (that's 'weather cloths' in the US), sailcovers, cockpit cushions etc - wash in warm soapy water, rinse and store until launch time.

Outboard Motor

Outboard motors, that whilst working perfectly at the end of one season, can steadfastly refuse to get up and go at the beginning of the next.

What you need is 'fogging' oil. Here's how to use it:~

Fire up the outboard, making sure the cooling water intakes are fully submerged of course;
turn off the fuel supply, leaving the engine running at idle;
just before the engine dies, it will start to cough and splutter. At this point, spray fogging oil into the carburretor until it stops. You can ignore the smoke...

This will purge all the petrol (US, gas) from the fuel system, reducing the possibility of varnish forming as petrol evaporates, and will coat all internal engine parts and protect against corrosion.

A Hauling Out and Laying Up Checklist

We all have our own Hauling Out and Laying Up Checklist - here's ours...

Accessories

Clean and bag dinghy;
Remove BBQ;
Remove Danbuoy and HS lifebuoy;
Remove Life Sling;
Lubricate locks;
Remove all batteries from torches etc;
Wash insect screens;
Clean watermaker filters;
Pickle watermaker;
Turn off gas at cooker and bottle;
Turn off gas locker vent valve;
Sort chart table contents;
Flush toilet with fresh water;
Turn off inverter circuit breaker;
Turn off battery isolators;
Turn off anchor windlass circuit breaker;

Fabrics and Interior

Clean underside main hatch;
Clean bilge;
Clean carpets and cabin sole;
Clean and close curtains;
Clean upholstery;
Fill fuel tank;
Drain and dry water tanks;

Hull, Deck and Cockpit

Remove tiller;
Check condition of anodes;
Fit deck hatch covers;
Remove thru-hulls and install insect mesh;
Deck/Hull clean;
Wash anchor, chain and locker;
Clean stainless steel;
Fit instrument covers;
Tie up windcharger and turn off;
Lay up outboard motor;
Main engine oil/filter change;
Grease shaft seal;
Drain and disconnect exhaust box;
Lubricate seacocks;
Clean and grease prop;

Sails & Canvas

Remove and wash bimini;
Remove and wash dodgers (weathercloths);
Remove/bag sails;
Remove and wash sailcovers;
Remove and wash sprayhood;
Clean cockpit seats and cushions;

Spars and Rigging

Remove jackstays;
Remove mainsheet, vang, runners etc;
Tie out halyards;
Secure boom on deck;

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What to expect during a haul out.

Post by Team Dockwa - Published on 09/02/22 12:30 PM

Lucky for you, Dockwa has you covered! Below we’ve compiled a simple guide to follow ahead of your next haul out.

Check-in with the marina

Hauling at your home port is often the more straightforward option, but it's not always possible based on your boat’s size and the needed equipment. If you need to haul your boat at a different location, it’s essential to do your homework before identifying where and when scheduling enough time to move your boat to that spot for the haul out.

After deciding where to haul your boat, you need to determine when (if you tend to procrastinate). Then, be extra sure to keep yourself on schedule, giving the boatyard or marina as much time as possible to accommodate you. Remember that the yard's busy season is during late fall , when people pull their boats out for winter storage , and when people relaunch their vessels in the spring .

Be aware of the cost and work required to haul out

It’s important to know exactly how much it will set you back when hauling out your boat. Keep in mind that most boatyards charge by the foot and will often have a baseline fee built into the total cost . Some yards will utilize contracts, and if yours does, be sure to read it carefully and thoroughly to know what they will and will not include. Nothing is worse than coming across a hidden fee after signing on the dotted line. On the flip side, if your boatyard doesn't have you sign a contract, be sure to still ask as many questions as possible to have all the information you need.

Plan to be there when they lift your boat

It may be a no-brainer to some but plan to be present on the day of your boat’s haul out. This way, you can see firsthand the condition of the boat’s hull before it’s cleaned and power washed. Most yards will do this immediately, so the “fouling” (built-up plant and animal life on the boat’s bottom) doesn't set like concrete.

It's relatively common for the boat owner to drive their boat into the travel hoist pit, so be sure you have fenders on both sides of the vessel to protect the topsides. Always listen carefully to the instructions given to you by the yard staff, and don't forget to shut off the engines, air conditioners, and other equipment before hoisting the boat. Double-check that all the tanks of your craft are empty to avoid added strain on the boat’s structure when it’s lifted and then sitting on land.

Keep in mind that the slings used to haul out the boat can sometimes scratch its paint and varnish. To help avoid any damage, check with the yard to make sure they use soft muffs or plastic sleeves over the webbing on the straps.

Inspect your boat once on land

Once your boat is placed on blocks and supported by jack stands in the boatyard, make sure you tell the yard about any structural features they should keep in mind. You can store most boats the same way, but it’s always good to call out anything that could become damaged.

Then, inspect the jack stands, checking to ensure they have chains between them to prevent spreading (which could cause the boat to fall over). The attachment points of the chain to the stand should always be secure. If it’s is severely rusted, ask to have it replaced to avoid any accidents.

Once your boat is out of the water, owners should plan to give each part of the boat a full inspection, checking the propellers, rudders, transducers, and anything else usually submerged when out on the water. If anything could use a little TLC, now is the time to make needed updates.

Going into a haul out can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re new to the process and have never seen a boat lifted from the water. Luckily with the proper knowledge and a great boatyard handling the heavy lifting, the whole process can be simple and stress-free.

One you're back in the water, you can rely on Dockwa to book your next slip or mooring and plan your next adventure!

Be sure to check out our other blog posts to get an inside look at our favorite destinations, marinas, liveaboards, and tips for boaters. Join the conversation on Flipboard , Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .

Get out there today!

Dockwa's mission is to connect boaters and marinas. Sign up for Dockwa to make the most of being a boat owner. Explore new harbors and book slips and moorings within minutes - all with the tips of your fingers.

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(904) 824-2520

29° 52.49 | W. 81° 18.56

Rates & Services
Photo Gallery

Services/Rates

Our Travel Lift can accommodate vessels up to 75 tons with beams up to 21’

Up to 45’: $12.00 per foot 46’ and Up: $14.00 per foot Price Per Hour: $300.00

Travel lift extra strap fees: $50 per extra strap. Chine blocks added to straps: $50 per set of chine blocks.

150 Galion Crane Price Per Hour: $300.00

Forklift Price Per Hour: $100.00

Please Note – Hurricane Haul Out rates are double our everyday rates. Please call for Hurricane Haul Out Procedures and/or availability.

Yard Storage Rates:

Daily Rate:
$1.25 per ft.
Monthly Storage Rate:
1st 30 days – $10.00 2nd 30 days – $11.00 (Applies if mast is not placed on top of boat) 60 days or longer – $12.00
Mast Storage:
$1.00 per ft. (Applies if mast is not placed on top of boat)
Utility Rates:
“Do It Yourself” (work & repairs):

Live Aboard:

Storage Only:
1-2 people (each addtl. person is $4.00/day or $50.00/month per person)
Dockage Rates:

Equipment Rates:

Travel Lift:
Boom Truck:

Quick Hauls:

Quick Hauls Include:
Zincs and Pressure Washing, Custom Fiberglass Fabrication, Mechanical and Electrical Services, Alexseal & Awlgrip – Hull and Top Side Finishing, Shaft and Prop Repair and Aluminum and Stainless TIG Welding.

Bottom Jobs:

Bottom Jobs Include:
Haul, block, and launch, pressure washing bottom of boat, and washing hull sides. Bottom will be painted with (2) coats of Micron 66 unless otherwise specified by owner. Does not include – zincs, prep work, underwater gear, or cost of bottom paint. Storage rates will apply if boat is not picked up after 24 hours of notification of job completion. Please Note: Vessel WILL NOT be hauled with extensive barnacles or heavy growth. Please have a diver clean prior to arrival.

30 – 35 ft: 1st Coat $18.00 2nd Coat $9.00

36 – 40 ft: 1st Coat $19.00 2nd Coat $9.50

41 – 45 ft: 1st Coat $20.50 2nd Coat $10.25

46 – 50 ft: 1st Coat $21.50 2nd Coat $10.75

51 – 55 ft: 1st Coat $23.50 2nd Coat $11.75

Underwater Gear: Each job is quoted and charged by labor time and material. We offer two different applications.

1. InterProtect + Hard Bottom Paint Sandblast all running gear down to bare metal. Four coats of InterProtect 2000 Epoxy is applied and two coats of hard bottom paint applied.

2. PropSpeed Running Gear Coating Hand sand all metal areas to bare metal. Apply PropSpeed protectant to bare metal. This is a (2) man application.

Travel Lift Rates: 75 Ton Travel Lift can accommodate vessels with beams up to 21 feet.

Haul Out/Pressure Wash/Block/Launch 45 ft. & Under – $10.00 per ft. 46 ft & Over – $12.00 per ft.

*PLEASE NOTE: HURRICANE RATES ARE DOUBLED THE STANDARD HAUL OUT COST. THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE PRESSURE WASHING. BOATS MUST BE CLEANED AND BARNICLE FREE PRIOR TO ARRIVAL. LAST BOAT LAUNCHED, FIRST BOAT HAULED AFTER 24 HOUR STORM CLEARANCE HAS BEEN DECLARED.

PRESSURE WASHING:

45 ft. & Under: $1.00 per foot 46 ft. & Over – $1.25 per ft.

Additional Straps: $50.00 ea. Blocking for Spray Rails: $75.00 Bubble Wrap Straps: $40.00 per strap

Off Load from truck to block & launch 45 ft. & under – $9.00 per ft. 46 ft. & Over – $11.00 per ft.

Off Load from truck to water 45 ft. & under – $8.00 per ft. 46 ft. & Over – $10.00 per ft.

Load on Truck for transport Add (1) hr. labor $90.00 PLUS (1) hr. travel lift $100.00

Survey Hauls (includes ½ hr. in slings) 45 ft. & Under – $10.00 per ft. 46 ft & Over – $12.00 per ft.

Re-Block Boat (Lift boat at owner’s request & reset) 45 ft. & under – $8.50 per ft. 46 ft. & Over – $10.00 per ft.

LABOR RATES: (Min. 1 hr charge) $100.00 per hr.

Mechanical/Electrical/Fiberglass/ Carpentry/Rigging/ Prep Work/Welding $90.00 per hr.

Relocate Boat Stands (to paint under pads) and General Labor * Any work that requires travel outside of the boatyard will be subject to the labor rate of $125.00 per hour.

256 Riberia St St. Augustine, FL N. (904) 824-2520 29° 52.49 W. 81° 18.56 Buoy: Green 17 (San Sebastian River)

HOURS Mon thru Thurs. 8AM to 4:00PM

Understanding the Costs of Owning a Sailboat: A Complete Guide

Alex Morgan

Owning a sailboat can be a dream come true for many sailing enthusiasts. It’s important to understand that there are various costs associated with owning and maintaining a sailboat. By gaining insights from reputable sources such as BoatUS, we can explore the different factors that affect the cost of owning a sailboat and provide helpful tips for managing these expenses.

Factors that impact the cost of owning a sailboat include the type and size of the sailboat, age and condition, location and storage costs, maintenance and repair expenses, insurance and registration fees, as well as any upgrades and customizations. These factors can significantly vary and contribute to the overall expenses involved.

Initially, when purchasing a sailboat, you need to consider the purchase price itself, survey and inspection costs, tax and title fees, as well as any delivery or transportation costs. Additional expenses may arise from the need to purchase equipment and accessories specific to sailing.

ongoing costs are an important consideration. These include mooring or slip fees, insurance premiums, winterization and storage costs, maintenance and repair expenses, as well as fuel, water, and propane costs. In addition, annual registration and licensing renewal fees must also be factored into the budget.

To help manage the cost of owning a sailboat, it is recommended to research and purchase wisely, creating a budget and maintenance plan, considering shared ownership or boat clubs, as well as taking on your own maintenance and repairs. identifying cost-saving opportunities can help make owning a sailboat more financially feasible.

By understanding the factors influencing the cost of owning a sailboat and implementing effective strategies for managing expenses, sailing enthusiasts can enjoy the pleasure of owning a sailboat while being mindful of their financial commitments.

Key takeaway:

Owning a sailboat can be costly: The cost of owning a sailboat is influenced by various factors, including the type and size of the boat, its age and condition, as well as location and storage costs. It is important to consider these factors when budgeting for a sailboat.
Initial costs of owning a sailboat: When purchasing a sailboat, one must account for the purchase price, survey and inspection costs, tax and title fees, delivery or transportation costs, as well as equipment and accessories expenses.
Ongoing costs of owning a sailboat: Owning a sailboat comes with ongoing expenses such as mooring or slip fees, insurance premiums, winterization and storage costs, maintenance and repair expenses, as well as fuel, water, and propane costs. These costs should be factored into the overall budget.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Owning a Sailboat

Owning a sailboat is more than just a hobby—it’s a thrilling adventure that comes with its own set of costs. In this section, we’ll explore the various factors that influence the expenses of owning a sailboat. From the type and size of the vessel to the age and condition, we’ll uncover how these factors play a role in determining the overall cost. We’ll dive into the expenses associated with storage, maintenance, repairs, insurance, registration, as well as upgrades and customizations. So, hold onto your hats as we navigate the financial currents of owning a sailboat!

Type and Size of Sailboat

Pro-tip: Consider your intended use and budget when choosing the type and size of sailboat. Assess your sailing skills and needs to find the right balance between cost and functionality. Research thoroughly and consult with experienced sailors to make an informed decision.

Age and Condition of the Sailboat

The age and condition of a sailboat are crucial factors to consider when evaluating its cost and value. When assessing a sailboat, it is important to take into account various aspects such as the age , maintenance , structural integrity , equipment and systems , upgrades and renovations , as well as the potential resale value .

Older sailboats often have more wear and tear, which may result in frequent repairs. Age alone should not be the sole factor in determining the value of a sailboat. A well-maintained boat, regardless of its age, can be in better condition than a neglected newer boat. It is essential to thoroughly inspect the hull , deck , rigging , and sails for any signs of damage or weakness, as structural issues can be costly to repair. Older sailboats may also have outdated or malfunctioning equipment and systems, which might require upgrading or repair , leading to additional expenses.

On the other hand, considering any enhancements or renovations made to the sailboat can increase its value and overall enjoyment. An older sailboat in good condition may have a higher resale value than a newer boat in poor condition. Therefore, it is vital to assess the potential resale value if considering selling the sailboat in the future.

In a true story, a seasoned sailor once purchased a 30-year-old sailboat in excellent condition. Despite its age, the boat had been meticulously maintained , providing years of reliable cruising without significant expenses. This highlights the importance of not only focusing on the age but also the condition and care given to the sailboat.

Location and Storage Costs

When it comes to owning a sailboat, one cannot underestimate the importance of location and storage costs . These two factors play a significant role in determining the overall expenses.

One key consideration is the mooring or slip fees associated with marinas or yacht clubs. These fees are charged for docking the boat and can vary greatly depending on the location and amenities provided. Whether you are looking to spend a few hundred or several thousand dollars per year, it is crucial to factor in these costs.

Another vital aspect to consider is winterization and storage expenses . Particularly in areas with harsh winters, it becomes necessary to store the sailboat during the off-season. Winterization involves preparing the boat for cold weather conditions and safeguarding it against potential damage. The storage costs can include fees for dry storage or renting boatyard space .

It is essential to take maintenance and repair expenses into account. Depending on the chosen storage location, there may be onsite facilities and services available for routine maintenance and repairs. Proper research and comparison of storage options are crucial to finding a solution that not only meets your needs but also proves to be cost-effective. Key factors to consider in this assessment include proximity to water, security measures, and convenience. These factors will ultimately determine the location and storage costs associated with owning a sailboat.

Maintenance and Repair Expenses

Maintenance and repair expenses are crucial for owning a sailboat. Ensuring that you budget for these costs is necessary to maintain the good condition of your sailboat and guarantee its longevity.

To gain a better understanding of the maintenance and repair expenses, here is a breakdown of the common costs associated with sailboat ownership:

Regular Maintenance: This includes activities such as cleaning, polishing, and basic upkeep.
Haul-out and Bottom Painting: Periodically hauling out the boat to apply anti-fouling paint to the hull.
Rigging: This involves inspecting, tuning, and replacing standing and running rigging.
Hull Repair: It covers fixing any damage to the hull caused by collisions or accidents.
Engine Servicing: Maintaining and repairing the boat’s engine and its associated systems.
Sail Repair: This entails fixing tears, replacing worn-out sails, or upgrading for improved performance.

These maintenance and repair expenses are typical for sailboat owners. Costs can vary depending on factors such as boat size, the extent of the repair required, and whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire professionals.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent more costly issues in the future. By actively maintaining your sailboat, you can ensure it remains in optimal condition for many years of sailing enjoyment.

It is important to always consider maintenance and repair expenses when calculating the overall cost of owning a sailboat. By being prepared and budgeting for these costs, you can avoid any financial surprises.

Sailboats have been adored by sailors for countless centuries. The joy of sailing remains unchanged from ancient times to the present day. Alongside sailing, sailboat ownership entails taking responsibility for the necessary maintenance and repair expenses. Sailors understand the significance of keeping their vessels in good condition, as it ensures safety and prolongs the lifespan of their sailboats. By dedicating time and resources to maintain and repair their sailboats, sailors have embarked on countless adventures, participated in races, and experienced the serene beauty of gliding through the water. The tradition of caring for sailboats has been passed down through generations, preserving the spirit of sailing.

Insurance and Registration Fees

When owning a sailboat, it is important to consider insurance and registration fees . These two factors play a crucial role in protecting your investment and ensuring legal registration. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

– Insurance : Sailboat insurance is essential in safeguarding against accidents, damage, or theft. The cost of insurance can vary based on several factors, including the value of the boat, its age and condition, your boating experience, and claims history.

– Registration fees : Registering your sailboat is necessary to meet legal requirements. The fees associated with registration can vary depending on the length of the boat, its usage location, and whether it is intended for recreational or commercial purposes.

Both insurance and registration fees should be considered as ongoing costs when budgeting for your sailboat. The specific amounts will vary depending on your individual circumstances and location.

For reference, BoatUS reports that the average annual boat insurance premium typically ranges from 1.5% to 2% of the boat’s market value. In terms of registration fees, they can range from $20 to $200, with the actual amount dependent on the state and size of the boat.

Upgrades and Customizations

When it comes to owning a sailboat, there are various upgrades and customizations that can enhance your sailing experience. Performance upgrades, comfort upgrades, technology upgrades, safety upgrades, and aesthetics upgrades are all available options. Consider your needs, preferences, and budget when deciding on upgrades and customizations for your sailboat. Prioritize upgrades that align with your sailing goals and enhance your sailing experience.

Initial Costs of Owning a Sailboat

Owning a sailboat may be a dream come true, but it’s important to understand the initial costs involved. In this section, we’ll dive into the different factors that contribute to the price tag of owning a sailboat. From the purchase price of the boat itself to survey and inspection costs, tax and title fees, delivery or transportation costs, and necessary equipment and accessories, we’ll break down the expenses you can expect when setting sail into the world of boat ownership. So, let’s hoist the anchor and navigate the financial waters of owning a sailboat!

Purchase Price of the Sailboat

The purchase price of a sailboat is an important factor to consider when owning one. It can vary depending on the size, age, and condition of the boat. Here is a table summarizing the average prices for different types of sailboats:

It’s crucial to note that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on the brand, model, and condition of the sailboat. In addition, other costs such as taxes, registration fees, and survey and inspection expenses should also be taken into consideration.

When purchasing a sailboat, it’s important to thoroughly research and inspect it. Consulting with experts or hiring a professional surveyor to assess its condition is highly recommended .

Buying a sailboat can be a significant investment, but it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. It’s advisable to set a budget and carefully consider all associated costs, including ongoing expenses, to ensure financial preparedness .

If necessary, negotiate the purchase price and consider buying used sailboats as a more affordable option. Wishing you happy sailing !

Survey and Inspection Costs

To determine the cost of owning a sailboat, survey and inspection costs are crucial. They ensure the condition and seaworthiness of the sailboat before buying it.

– Haul-out and bottom inspection: $300 – $500 – General condition survey: $10 – $20 per linear foot of boat length – Out-of-water inspection (including mast and rigging): $300 – $600 – Sail inspection: $150 – $300 – Engine inspection: $200 – $400

These costs can vary depending on the sailboat’s size, complexity, location, and the expertise of the surveyor. It is important to hire a knowledgeable professional surveyor who can thoroughly assess the vessel.

Survey and inspection costs are essential to uncover any potential issues or hidden problems with the sailboat. They allow buyers to make informed decisions and negotiate the purchase price based on the findings. These costs contribute to the overall expenses of owning a sailboat and ensure the vessel’s safety and seaworthiness.

Tax and Title Fees

Owning a sailboat involves considering various costs, including tax and title fees . These fees are necessary for legal ownership of the sailboat and may vary based on the boat’s location and size .

Location | Tax and

——— | —————–

Florida | $500

California | $1,000

New York | $800

These fees are typically a percentage of the sailboat’s purchase price and are required to register the boat and obtain the necessary documentation. It’s important to include these fees when budgeting for the overall cost of owning a sailboat.

To manage the cost of tax and title fees , it’s recommended to research the fees specific to your location beforehand and create a budget that includes these fees. Considering shared ownership or joining boat clubs can help reduce the financial burden of owning a sailboat. Purchasing a used sailboat or performing your own maintenance and repairs can save money in the long run.

Delivery or Transportation Costs

To understand sailboat ownership costs, consider delivery or transportation expenses. Factors like distance, transportation mode, and additional services can affect these costs.

Distance is a key factor in delivery costs. Shipping a sailboat long distances, especially across borders or overseas, significantly increases expenses. The sailboat’s size and weight determine the transportation method (land, sea, or air).

Other contributors to delivery costs include the need for specialized equipment (e.g. cranes, trailers) to load and unload the sailboat. Remote or hard-to-reach locations require extra logistics and fees.

To minimize costs, research reputable transportation providers with competitive prices. Comparing quotes helps find the most cost-effective option. Coordinating the delivery during low-demand periods also reduces expenses.

Pro-tip: Prioritize safety and proper handling during transportation. Investing in reliable services prevents damages or delays, ensuring a smooth journey for your new vessel.

Equipment and Accessories

When owning a sailboat, it is important to factor in the cost of equipment and accessories. These items are vital for the proper functioning and enjoyment of your sailboat.

The cost of equipment and accessories can vary depending on the size and type of sailboat, as well as personal preferences and requirements. Investing in high-quality and durable equipment is crucial.

It is worth considering ongoing maintenance and replacement costs for certain equipment and accessories. For instance, sails may need replacement every 5-10 years, depending on usage and care. Electronics may also require upgrades as they become outdated.

By meticulously considering necessary equipment and accessories and budgeting for their costs, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable sailing experience.

Ongoing Costs of Owning a Sailboat

Owning a sailboat can bring both joy and ongoing costs. In this section, we’ll explore the various expenses that come with owning a sailboat. From mooring or slip fees to maintenance and repair expenses, we’ll uncover the financial considerations that sailors need to keep in mind. Additionally, we’ll touch upon insurance premiums, winterization and storage costs, as well as fuel, water, and propane costs. Lastly, we’ll discuss the need for registration and licensing renewal fees. Buckle up as we dive into the financial realities of sailboat ownership!

Mooring or Slip Fees

When owning a sailboat, one of the ongoing costs is mooring or slip fees. These fees secure a location to dock or store your sailboat. Here are some important details to keep in mind:

Location: Mooring or slip fees can vary depending on the location. Popular coastal areas or marinas in metropolitan cities tend to have higher fees than remote or less populated areas.

Size of boat: The size of your sailboat affects the cost of mooring or slip fees. Larger boats require more space and may have higher fees.

Type of mooring: Marinas offer different mooring options, such as floating docks, mooring balls, or fixed piers. The type of mooring chosen may impact the fees.

Length of stay: Mooring or slip fees are typically charged monthly or yearly. Longer-term contracts often have discounts or lower rates compared to short-term or transient mooring.

Amenities and services: Some marinas offer additional amenities and services, such as electricity, water hookups, Wi-Fi access, security measures, and facilities. These extras may contribute to higher fees.

Research and compare different marinas or docking facilities in your desired area to find the most suitable and cost-effective option for mooring or slip fees.

Insurance Premiums

Insurance premiums are an important ongoing cost to consider when owning a sailboat. Here are some key factors:

Boat’s value: Premiums are often based on the sailboat’s value. Higher-value boats may have higher insurance premiums.
Type of coverage: Different insurance policies offer varying levels of coverage, which directly affects the premium amount.
Boating experience: The owner’s sailing experience and history may be taken into consideration. More experienced sailors may be eligible for lower insurance premiums.
Location: Insurance premiums can be impacted by the location where the sailboat will be primarily used and stored. Areas prone to natural disasters or high rates of boat theft may have higher insurance premiums.
Previous claims history: Insurance companies consider the claims history of the sailboat owner. Owners with a record of previous claims may be charged higher insurance premiums.
Security measures: Installing security devices such as GPS tracking, alarms, or sturdy locks can help reduce insurance premiums. Storing the sailboat in a secure location can also have an impact.
Insurance provider: Rates and coverage options vary among insurance companies. It’s important to shop around and compare quotes to find the best insurance coverage at an affordable premium.

Considering these factors can help you make an informed decision about insurance premiums for your sailboat.

Winterization and Storage Costs

When owning a sailboat, it’s crucial to carefully consider the expenses associated with winterization and storage costs . These costs are necessary to safeguard your sailboat during the colder months.

Winterization , which can amount to approximately 1% to 3% of your boat’s value, involves various tasks such as removing and securely storing sails, electronics, and disconnecting the battery. In addition to these tasks, there are supplementary costs involved, such as purchasing antifreeze, fuel stabilizer, and other materials essential for the winterization process.

On the other hand, storage costs are determined by factors such as the size of your boat and its location. If you opt for indoor storage, you can expect to pay a monthly fee ranging from $300 to $900. Outdoor storage options, on the other hand, are more affordable, with costs typically falling between $100 and $400 per month.

In order to efficiently manage these expenses, it is crucial to plan ahead and establish a budget. A sensible approach would be to contact local marinas or boatyards and compare prices to find the most suitable storage option for your sailboat. You should inquire about any available long-term storage discounts or package deals that can help you protect your sailboat without exceeding your budget.

Maintenance and repair expenses are significant for sailboat ownership. Consider the following factors for these costs:

-Regular maintenance: Sailboats require routine upkeep for proper functioning. This includes cleaning, painting, and lubricating various components.

– Engine maintenance: Sailboats with engines need regular servicing, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Costs vary based on engine size and type.

-Sail and rigging repairs: Over time, sails and rigging may wear out or become damaged. Repairing or replacing these components is necessary for sailboat performance and safety.

-Hull repairs: The sailboat hull may need occasional repairs due to impacts, corrosion, or wear and tear. Costs vary based on damage extent and repair materials.

– Electronics and electrical system maintenance: Sailboats with electronics and electrical systems require periodic inspections, repairs, or replacements for proper functioning.

To manage maintenance and repair expenses effectively, consider these suggestions:

-Create a budget: Allocate funds specifically for maintenance and repair costs.

-Perform regular inspections: Assess the sailboat’s condition regularly to detect potential issues early and address them promptly.

-Learn basic maintenance skills: Develop DIY skills to handle minor repairs and maintenance tasks, reducing the need for professional assistance.

-Stay proactive: Address maintenance and repair needs promptly to prevent further damage and potential cost increases.

-Consider professional assistance: Some complex repairs or specialized tasks may require professional expertise. Factor in the cost of hiring professionals when budgeting for maintenance and repairs.

Fuel, Water, and Propane Costs

Fuel, water, and propane costs are important ongoing expenses to consider when owning a sailboat. These costs can vary depending on factors such as frequency of use, distance traveled, and the boat size. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

– Sailboats require fuel for auxiliary engines during maneuvers or emergencies. On average, fuel costs can range from 5-10% of total operating expenses and propane costs.

– Sailboats have water tanks for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Refilling these tanks depends on location and water prices. Marinas offer refill stations, charging per gallon or per liter usage.

– Sailboats use propane for cooking, heating, and refrigeration. Propane costs vary based on tank size and frequency of usage. Consider refill costs and ensure a sufficient supply.

Fact: BoatUS Magazine reports that the average sailboat owner spends $1,000 to $2,000 per year on fuel, water, and propane costs.

Registration and Licensing Renewal Fees

Owning a sailboat requires considering the registration and licensing renewal fees. These mandatory fees vary depending on the boat’s registration location. They contribute to maintaining boating facilities and waterways.

Factoring in these fees is essential when considering the overall cost of owning a sailboat. Failure to renew registration and licensing can result in fines or the boat’s inability to be operated legally. It is crucial to check the specific renewal requirements and deadlines in your area.

Tips for Managing the Cost of Owning a Sailboat

Owning a sailboat can be a dream come true, but managing the costs can be a challenge. In this section, we’ll share some valuable tips to help you navigate the financial waters of owning a sailboat. From researching and purchasing wisely to creating a budget and maintenance plan, we’ll equip you with practical strategies to keep expenses in check. We’ll also explore alternative options like shared ownership and cost-saving opportunities, so you can indulge in your sailing passion without breaking the bank .

Research and Purchase Wisely

When owning a sailboat, research and purchase wisely for the best possible decision. Here are some tips to help with research and purchase:

1. Determine sailing goals: Consider racing or cruising, day-sailing or extended trips. Knowing goals narrows down options.

2. Research sailboat types: Each type has advantages and disadvantages. Research size, stability, and handling.

3. Read reviews and seek recommendations: Look for reviews of sailboat models and brands. Read about other sailors’ experiences and seek expert or fellow sailor recommendations.

4. Inspect sailboat: Thoroughly inspect any potential sailboat. Look for damage, assess condition, and check for necessary repairs or upgrades.

5. Consider maintenance cost: Account for ongoing maintenance when deciding to purchase.

6. Get a survey: Have a professional surveyor evaluate the sailboat’s condition and identify any potential issues.

Pro-tip: Take your time, do thorough research, and consult experts for an informed decision.

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Create a Budget and Maintenance Plan

To successfully create a budget and maintenance plan for owning a sailboat, it is crucial to follow these steps:

1. Assess your financial situation and establish your boat ownership budget.

2. Research and compile a list of potential expenses related to sailboat ownership, including the purchase price, insurance premiums, mooring fees, maintenance costs, and fuel expenses.

3. Categorize and estimate the average cost for each expense category, such as monthly insurance cost, annual maintenance cost, and seasonal winterization and storage cost.

4. Prioritize and allocate your budget appropriately, identifying areas where you can save money and areas where you should invest more.

5. Develop a maintenance timeline and schedule regular check-ups to proactively address small issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

6. Maintain a comprehensive record of all expenses and periodically compare them with your budget to ensure you are staying on track.

7. Establish a contingency fund specifically designated for unexpected repairs or emergencies that may arise.

8. Stay informed about potential cost-saving opportunities, such as discounts on mooring fees or fuel, and take full advantage of them.

9. Regularly review and adjust your budget and maintenance plan to accommodate any changes in your financial situation or boat ownership requirements.

By implementing these steps, you will be able to effectively manage your sailboat’s finances and upkeep, enabling you to fully enjoy your sailing experiences.

Consider Shared Ownership or Boat Clubs

Consider shared ownership or boat clubs as a cost-saving option when owning a sailboat.

– Shared Ownership: When considering the ownership of a sailboat, it would be wise to consider shared ownership programs or boat clubs. These options allow you to share the costs and responsibilities with others, resulting in significantly reduced expenses. By joining a shared ownership program, you can split the purchase price, maintenance costs, mooring fees, and other expenses among multiple owners. This arrangement offers shared usage, ensuring that you can enjoy the sailboat without shouldering the full financial burden.

– Boat Clubs: Another cost-effective alternative to purchasing and maintaining a sailboat individually is to join a boat club. Boat clubs grant you access to a fleet of sailboats for a monthly or annual fee. This eliminates the need for individual ownership and the associated expenses. Boat clubs offer various membership levels and allow members to reserve boats for specific dates and durations, providing flexibility and convenience. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who desire the joys of sailing without long-term commitments and heavy financial obligations.

– Membership Fees: Before finalizing your decision, it is essential to consider the membership fees associated with shared ownership or boat clubs. Take the time to compare these fees with the potential cost savings to ensure they align with your budget and sailing needs.

– Availability and Reservations: It is crucial to check the availability of sailboats and the ease of reserving them in your area. Consider the proximity of boat club locations to ensure convenient access.

– Community and Networking: Beyond the financial advantages, shared ownership and boat clubs offer an opportunity to connect with fellow sailing enthusiasts and foster a sense of community. By sharing experiences, knowledge, and resources with other members, you can enhance your overall sailing experience.

Considering shared ownership or boat clubs is a practical way to enjoy the benefits of sailing while minimizing financial obligations.

Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs

Doing your own sailboat maintenance and repairs saves money and ensures good condition. By taking the necessary steps, you can effectively Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs.

1. Regularly inspect your boat for damage or wear. Check the hull for cracks, inspect rigging for fraying or corrosion, and examine sails for tears or holes.

2. Learn basic maintenance tasks like cleaning, changing oil and filters, and checking and replacing spark plugs. This way, you can confidently Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs.

3. Invest in a versatile set of tools including wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and electrical testers. These tools will aid you in successfully completing Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs.

4. Educate yourself on more complex repairs like fixing leaks, repairing electrical systems, and replacing parts. By learning these skills, you will be equipped to effectively Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs.

5. Be proactive in addressing issues to prevent them from becoming costly problems later. By taking proactive measures, you can efficiently Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs, saving both time and money.

By doing your own maintenance and repairs, you save money and develop a better understanding of your boat, boosting your confidence in handling any issues that may arise. So, take charge and confidently Do Your Own Maintenance and Repairs.

Take Advantage of Cost-Saving Opportunities

To efficiently manage the expenses associated with owning a sailboat, it is crucial to capitalize on various cost-saving opportunities. These approaches include:

Making use of discounts and promotions provided by marinas and boat clubs. These organizations frequently offer reduced rates for services such as mooring or slip fees, as well as other facilities.
Engaging in co-ownership of a sailboat with other individuals or families to distribute the costs and enhance affordability.
Whenever feasible, handle your own maintenance and repairs. Acquiring basic boat maintenance skills can substantially reduce expenses related to labor costs.
Prior to purchasing equipment, accessories, and supplies for your sailboat, conduct thorough research and compare prices. Look out for sales, discounts, and consider buying used items in good condition to cut down on expenses.
Seek out opportunities to save on fuel, water, and propane. Look for marinas or fuel stations that provide boaters with discounts or loyalty programs.

By implementing these strategies, one can effectively reduce the overall cost of sailboat ownership and ensure a more affordable boating experience.

Some Facts About How Much Does It Cost To Own A Sailboat:

✅ The initial purchase cost of a sailboat can vary depending on factors such as type, size, condition, and whether it’s new or used.
✅ Financing options are available for those who can’t afford to buy a sailboat outright.
✅ Maintenance costs for a boat can be around 10% of its value per year, and unexpected repairs may also be necessary.
✅ Owning a sailboat can be affordable, with prices ranging from $1,500 for a used sailboat to $250,000 for a new sailboat.
✅ The average price of new sailboats is $250,000, ranging from $96,000 to $654,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how much does it cost to buy a sailboat.

The cost of buying a sailboat can vary depending on factors such as type, size, condition, and whether it’s new or used. For example, a new sailboat can cost anywhere from $96,000 to $654,000, while a used sailboat can range from $19,000 to $518,000. Popular sailboats such as the Catalina 30, Islander 36, Contessa 32, Pearson 34, and Nordic 40 have different asking prices.

2. What are the annual components of owning and operating a sailboat?

The annual costs of owning and operating a sailboat include maintenance costs (around 10% of the boat’s value per year), insurance costs (approximately 1.5% of the boat’s value), mooring or berthing costs (varying based on location and convenience), off-season storage ashore fees (cheaper than marina berths), and additional expenses for upgrades and repairs.

3. What is the true cost of boat ownership?

The true cost of boat ownership goes beyond the initial purchase price. It includes various other expenses such as the price of the boat and additional equipment needed for sailing (capital cost), finance costs (if a loan is taken), depreciation (which may not be significant for well-maintained used boats over 5 years old), insurance costs, mooring or berthing fees, off-season storage ashore charges, and ongoing maintenance and upgrade costs.

4. How much are the hidden costs of owning a sailboat?

Owning a sailboat involves additional costs that might not be immediately apparent. These hidden costs include inspection fees, necessary add-ons for safety, potential repairs, and unforeseen expenses that may arise during ownership. It is important to factor in these hidden charges when budgeting for a sailboat.

5. What are the monthly expenses associated with sailboat ownership?

Monthly expenses for owning a sailboat may include maintenance costs (ranging from $2,000 to $3,000), mooring or docking fees, insurance premiums, fuel costs, electricity bills, dining out expenses, internet access fees, personal care and clothing expenses, and entertainment costs. These expenses can vary depending on individual preferences and lifestyle choices.

6. How can I make money from owning a sailboat?

While owning a sailboat does come with expenses, there are potential ways to offset costs or even make money. Some sailboat owners choose to rent out their boats when not in use, participate in boat chartering programs, or offer sailing lessons. It is important to research and understand the legal and financial implications of such endeavors.

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Cost for haul out?

Thread starter Gabor15908
Start date Jun 1, 2012
Hunter Owner Forums
Mid-Size Boats

I just wonder...here in the Pacific Northwest , Point Roberts, WA. to pull my 376 Hunter out for a quick pressure wash and zink it up would cost me $300.00. Total time out of the water is 30 min. I think it is way to high...or is it?

Lost Parent

I got the same quote for my Catalina 30

Rich Stidger

Sounds like a bargain to me... My yard in Narragansett Bay gets $10/ft for a 1 hour short haul and $2 for a power wash. That $480 for my 40 foot Hunter and $444 for your 37 Hunter.

Gabor15908 said: I just wonder...here in the Pacific Northwest , Point Roberts, WA. to pull my 376 Hunter out for a quick pressure wash and zink it up would cost me $300.00. Total time out of the water is 30 min. I think it is way to high...or is it? Click to expand

Ralph Johnstone

On My Way Down There ................... ................. right now. What a bargain :dance: ! $351.08 for a half haul out on an H310, pressure wash, and about 1/2 hr. to play with the barnacles on the prop and replace the zincs.

$380 with tax for a travelift launch of my 25, that took the yard guys less than 10 minutes. When they gotcha, they gotcha.

$15/foot here in NY.....haul out, pressure wash and dropping back in....it is not about the time alone, the travel lift has to show an ROI...

Our yard is $8/ft haul,spray,block and launch. The diver we use is $3.50/ft and $3/ft if you are a repeat customer.

similar pricing in the Houston area for my H31 with new zincs

jmce1587 said: similar pricing in the Houston area for my H31 with new zincs Click to expand

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Rocky Pointe Marina – Boatyard Rates (Effective 3-1-2024)

The Boatyard at Rocky Pointe The following are some of our basic rates. Costs may vary by job. We will provide an estimate once we inspect the boat. In most all cases you will find that our services cost less than other boatyards. We provide professional service and stand behind the work we do. Over 100 years combined experience in boating & boat repair. ABYC Certified.

Labor Rates Shipwright Yard Rate – $135hr Electrical, Mechanical & Fiberglass – $135hr Mobile Labor – $175/hr. with cc number upfront – drive time includedd

Bottom Paint $35/ft* (min charge 25′ – $875) 2 Coats Paint – plus paint

Per foot rate includes round trip lift to and from water or trailer, blocking, pressure wash, standard preparation hand scuff and application of paint.

Paint cost is extra and sold 10% above our wholesale cost based on quantity used. We stock hard modified epoxy, durable ablative and soft ablative paints. Owners can provide their own paint if desired.

*Environmental fee add $4/ ft. includes ground tarp, paint chip and dust collection and disposal

*If aggressive sanding or grinding needed, tarp off boat bottom/side – $5/ft.

*Boats over 45ft add $275

*Additional sanding or preparation needed for flaking, damage or old paint with excessive growth estimated per job

*New or unpainted boat bottoms require additional preparation and estimated per job

Travelift/ Haul Out Round Trip to yard or one way to or from trailer – $12/ft.*($240 min). Trailer loading extra.

Insurance survey haul out 1 hr. hang time – $11/ft.*

Pre –sale Survey haul out w/ accredited surveyor 1 hr. hang time – $10 per ft.

Loading or fitting on trailer, includes Travelift operator and helper – $150/hr. $150 1st 1/2 hour $200 Thereafter

Pressure Wash (included in bottom paint package) – $4ft

Blocking on stands in yard (included in bottom paint package) – $100 <40’; 40’ and above $150

*Add $275 to any haul out of a boat 45’ and larger

*If additional third sling is needed – add $200 (ex. wood boats 36′ and above)

*If special blocking or pads need to be used under straps- add $50

Mast Stepping – Call for Rates 2-part painting topside/deck/cabin – Estimated per job Buffing/waxing topside/deck/cabin – Estimated per job

Blister Repairs Individual blister repair, non- structural including grinding, filling and fairing – $70 each

Individual blister repair, structural requiring layup- estimated @ $135/hr.

Peel bottom, barrier coat and add layer of glass– Starting at $500/ft.

Hot Vac Hull and Deck Drying – $150 day – for machine use, labor extra

Environmental Fees Ground Cover Plastic – $4 per ft. Tarp off underside of boat for aggressive sanding or grinding – $5/ft.

Other Rates Outside Contractor Fee, $30/hr. per man, must be insured and approved by boatyard in advance

Outside contractors only allowed for work our yard does not provide

Emergency Lift or work after hours or weekends – Add $250

Emergency Labor $200hr.

Lay Days, no lay day charges for boats being worked on by our yard – $125 per day -ask about policies

Mast lay days small $10/day large $15/day, no charge if we are painting mast.

Electricity no charge except if heated during winter. $5/day. Not responsible for refrigerators.

QUESTIONS? Contact boatyard manager Dave Salmi @ 503-543-2785 or [email protected]

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Everything to Remember when Hauling Out a Boat

Annual Maintenance Routine and Antifouling Bottom Job

Shortsighted boat owners who lengthen the time between haul outs cost money in the long run. Conventional wisdom says it pays to haulout annually for hull painting and maintenance, but some folks stretch that period to 18 months or even two years. The pros know better and keep their bottoms as clean as their topsides.

Once a Year

“I recommend hauling out every year to catch the bottom before the growth starts to build,” said Joe Zammataro, service manager at V&G Yachtworks in Dania Beach. “Because once the growth starts to build, that’s when you get water penetration and lose performance and fuel efficiency.”

Overall, the haulout service for a 50-foot vessel focuses on three main categories: running gear, through-hull fittings and bottom paint. Each category is important, and within each are sub-categories that may or may not pertain to a vessel, depending on the hull material, age and known performance and mechanical problems.

Running Gear

“Some boaters pay very little attention to their running gear,” said Michael Carey of Florida Marine in Riviera Beach. “If it’s not aligned and working properly they are just throwing money away in regard to efficiency and wear and tear.”

Most captains have picked up clues during the boat’s operation that there could be a running gear malfunction, indicated by prop vibration or poor engine performance. Once the boat is hauled out and blocked, the service team works on the running gear problems first, because parts may need to be ordered.

“The props can be sent outside the yard for dynamic balancing, and back in time for re-launching,” said Michael Bach, service and sales manager for Rybovich Spencer in West Palm Beach. “The performance records on board and other fixed datum give the propeller shops the required information to tune the props. The boat’s records also help determine whether more work needs to be done, such as drawing the shafts out of the boat. You will only do that when needed.”

Running gear and outdrives will be cleaned of fouling, and can be painted with special paint systems. Zinc anodes are usually replaced even though some of the old anode is still there. Strut bearings will be inspected to check for excess clearance, and strut bolts are checked for tightness, corrosion or leakage. Engine mounts are checked if vibration has occurred.

“A good tip is to do a thorough sea trial prior to hauling the vessel,” said Paul Engle, president and general manager of Bradford Marine in Fort Lauderdale. “That way problems can be pinpointed a lot faster.”

Through-Hull Fittings

A physical inspection of all the through-hull fittings is done. Metal through-hulls last longer and are more damage resistant, but they will also corrode, and the evidence of corrosion is a green or white residue. Plastic through-hulls are non-corrosive but will degrade after long-term exposure to ultra-violet light.

Inlets for the engines and generators, and drains for the bilge and other outlets, are fitted with seacocks. Seacocks allow the through-hull to be closed off, and the position of a lever-type handle tells you instantly if it is open or closed.

The service team will inspect the through-hulls and seacocks, remove marine growth and inspect for corrosion and degradation. Prevention is key to ensuring seacocks work properly, and its recommended that the seacock handle should be moved through its fully closed and fully opened path once a month.

Bottom Painting

The last step in the process is prepping the hull and applying the bottom paint. The purpose of bottom painting is to prevent the growth of barnacles and other evidences of fouling on the bottom of the boat. Almost all recreational boaters use an ablative paint that wears off over time. Conventional, or hard paint is used in high-performance applications, where keeping drag to a minimum is crucial.

For well-maintained boats, the bottom-painting procedure is similar for fiberglass-, aluminum- and steel-hulled boats. The bottom is mechanically sanded and profile work is done, and then the ablative paint is applied. However, a fiberglass boat that hasn’t been hauled in a few years would probably have blister problems. Steel boats that have been in the water a long time would likely be suffering from corrosion, as would aluminum boats. Boats with these problems need more preparation work, and costs increase with the additional time and labor.

Some boaters scrub their own hull bottom monthly or quarterly, or hire someone to do it. This can extend the time between haulouts for bottom paintwork, but obviously does not address running gear or through-hull maintenance. Also be aware that when you clean the bottom, you also clean off the paint that protects the bottom.

The proper sanding and removal of old paint and the prep of the bottom is crucial to getting a long-lasting paint job. Ablative paint polymers wash away slowly over time with water movement, and the fouling organisms are scrubbed away with it.

Paint is normally applied by a roller, although some yards apply paint with a sprayer. A sprayer is often used on larger boats. One coat of paint is normally sufficient for boats that will be hauled annually. “Unless the customer is going to be gone on a long trip for two or three years, we feel that one coat will last a year,” Engle said. “Otherwise it gets expensive for the customer.

Service Timeline

On a 50-foot fiberglass sportfishing boat with a good maintenance record, a haulout, service and re-launch can be completed in four to five days. The caveat to that time frame concerns what the service team finds once the boat is out of the water. In general, though, here’s how a haulout usually proceeds:

1) Haul boat out, pressure wash immediately before the hull dries

2) Block the boat and stage for out-of-water work

3) Inspect and confirm the work list and original estimate

4) Negotiate and finalize add-on work found during out-of-water inspection

5) Begin work on clearances, running gear, propellers

6) Inspect and repair through-hull fittings

7) Remove and replace zinc anodes

8) Prep the hull and apply bottom paint

9) After paint is properly cured, re-launch boat

Research the fees associated with hauling out. Call around your local area to shop rates and pick an operation that has a proven track record. Other fees that may be added on include insurance on the job and an EPA charge to dispose of hazardous waste. EPA charges run about 2.5 percent of the bottom job quote.

‍ Is Transporting a Sailboat Difficult?

It’s not necessarily difficult to transport a sailboat, but it does require care and careful planning. Your responsibilities as the sailboat owner range from trailer maintenance and careful driving to the organization of international logistics. In this article, we’ll discuss ways to streamline the process and make it easier.

Is Sailboat Transport Expensive?

Sailboat transport can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Obviously, moving a small sailboat is relatively cheap in comparison, especially if you already have a truck and a trailer.

The cost of transporting a larger boat is higher, as you’ll probably need to hire a shipping company or a crew.

There are multiple ways to transport a large sailboat, and the more economical method isn’t always immediately evident. Some boats may be cheaper to ship on a specially-designed yacht carrying vessel, while others may be cheaper if you hire a delivery crew.

Pricing varies between boats, locations, and destinations, so it’s essential to research all available methods and request multiple quotes. If you do, you could save thousands on transport and delivery, not to mention insurance costs to protect your vessel from possible damage.

Sailboat Transport Methods

There are several ways to transport a sailboat, and the ideal method depends upon the size and dry weight of the vessel. Dry weight is distinct from displacement, so it’s important to ensure that you have the correct number. Here are the most common ways to transport sailboats short and long distances.

Self Towing

Some sailboats can be towed, though the vehicle, trailer type, and license requirements vary based on size. The smallest and lightest dinghies and pocket cruisers can be towed by most typical cars, provided you have a heavy-duty tow hitch installed.

Larger sailboats, in the 20-foot range and longer, usually need to be towed by a pickup truck or SUV. A half-ton gasoline pickup truck is sufficient for lighter vessels, as long as the dry weight doesn’t exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity.

Also, remember that some automakers determine towing capacity under ideal test conditions, so your truck’s actual towing ability may be slightly lower than its rating.

You’ll have to collapse or remove the mast, boom, and standing rigging of the sailboat and secure it, regardless of its size.

Most trailer sailers can be towed by half-ton or 3/4 ton single rear wheel trucks. Larger sailboats, such as towable coastal cruisers, may require a multi-axle trailer and a gooseneck. This setup is often found with a dually 3/4 ton or 1-ton truck.

The Basics of Towing Rules in the United States

The rules of the road are clear when it comes to towing. With a Class C license (a standard driver’s license), the maximum overall trailer length you can tow is 60 feet. The maximum length of a Class C trailer surface is 53 feet.

Length usually isn’t the issue when it comes to towing sailboats. The maximum width of a class C trailer is 8 ft 6 in, which includes the items on the trailer. The regulations mean that the beam of your boat can’t exceed about 8 feet, give or take a couple of inches.

With a more advanced license or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you can tow a much larger trailer and drive a semi-truck. Some larger sailboats with greater beam width can be towed this way, though only if they remain below the maximum height.

Height requirements for trailers vary between 13 ft, 6 inches to 14 ft, depending on the location. This is measured from the ground to the top of the item on the trailer.

Be sure to plan your route carefully if you’re towing a boat with a full keel, as some older overpasses and railroad bridges are much shorter than 13 feet.

Professional Towing Services

It’s usually best to leave the towing to professionals, especially if you’re towing a large boat. Experienced drivers with big rigs and commercial licenses can transport surprisingly large vessels safely but at a cost. The benefit of using a professional service is that you’re taking the risk off your shoulders.

Many professional towing services offer insurance, which is essential. Insurance protects the loading and unloading of the boat and covers any damages that occur en route. For the price, it’s a no-brainer.

In most cases, the tow company will not be able to help you launch your boat. You’re responsible for arranging boat crane services at your destination. It’s best to plan carefully, as you may end up paying more if you make the driver wait too long.

Cost of Professional Sailboat Towing Services

Cost varies widely based on the company, location, and size of the load. Most towing companies have a base fee, a fee of the assessed load, and then a per-mile charge. Some companies have different fee structures.

Companies that offer quotes usually predict a charge of between $500 and $1,000 for typical trips, though it can cost as little as $300 if you have a relatively small boat and it only needs to travel a short distance.

Shipping a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Large and small sailboats are frequently sent across oceans via cargo ships. This method is time-tested and relatively cost-effective, though it’s not as straightforward as just sailing the boat across.

Some people hire an agent to arrange shipping, which is the easiest and most reliable way to have a headache-free experience.

Shipping a sailboat by sea is slower than over-the-road transport, and schedules are less flexible. Often, you’ll have to wait for a spot to open up on a specifically-designed yacht carrying ship.

Once the ships are loaded, they set out at predetermined times that might be months ahead of when you booked. The best way to ensure you get a spot on a yacht shipping vessel is to plan well in advance of when you actually need to transport the vessel.

Logistics are the greatest challenge of shipping a boat on a larger ship. If you don’t work with an agent or an accommodating shipping company, you could have to work out the following and more:

Transportation to the shipping yard
Loading and securing instructions
Shipping destination
Payments to various services
Customs in the destination country (if outside of the U.S.)
Taxes and import fees
Declarations
Inspections
Unloading at the destination
Transportation from the destination port to the marina

As you can see, there are lots of reasons to hire a professional to manage the minutiae of shipping a sailboat. The last thing you want is to have your boat seized at customs or have it dropped off in an unguarded yard in the wrong location.

Cost to Ship a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Shipping costs for ocean-going boat transport are lower than many people expect. A lot of factors are involved, including the size of the boat, its height (from keel to mast top), its displacement, and the distance it needs to be shipped.

The lowest prices you’ll find to ship an average-sized boat are around $3,000 to $5,000. A more typical estimate for an average sailboat is between $6,000 and $10,000. Some vessels and destinations cost upwards of $15,000. Costs tend to increase with the size and distance, and the value of your sailboat also plays a part.

Prices in the yacht shipping industry are competitive, which is why it’s relatively affordable to ship a boat over an ocean. It’s surprisingly popular as well, and there are more than a dozen shipping companies offering long-distance ocean transport specifically for yachts of various sizes.

Hired Delivery

Hired crews for boat delivery is the other way to transport a sailboat over the water. Crew services find a captain and a small professional crew to sail your boat for you.

This is a great option for large boats, as it’s often less expensive and time-consuming than shipping it on a larger vessel.

Hired crew delivery services are offered by companies and experienced individuals. You can even find a trusted friend to crew your boat for you, and they can hire a crew member or two to accompany them for the journey.

While under hire, the crew will be living in your boat. Crew members come from all backgrounds, and many sailors spend a summer or two working for a charter service to make some money or get free transportation to other countries.

Cost to Hire a Delivery Crew

Hired crew delivery costs vary, though the more hands you need, the more it costs. Crews and captains usually charge daily rates for yacht delivery services. A fast sailboat is almost always cheaper to transport than a slow sailboat.

As an example, we’ll use the services of Captain James Lowe , who is a USCG licensed 200-ton Master. As of the writing of this article, Captain James Lowe charges between $350 and $425 per day for his services, depending on the size of the vessel. Deckhands cost $175 per day per person, which is in addition to the Captain’s charges.

These are the base rates, and they’re a good representation of what professional crewed delivery costs. You may find cheaper rates with other groups or individuals, but it’s worth the cost if you want a trustworthy and experienced crew.

Additional charges often include transportation costs (to and from the destinations), fuel costs (for heating, cooking, and motoring), and a deposit is usually required for fuel. These costs are impossible to predict without knowing your specific plans, so it’s best to reach out to Captain James Lowe for a specialized quote.

Hired crew delivery services usually have a minimum crew requirement for different boat sizes and types. In this case, sailboats require a minimum of one deckhand in addition to a captain. Larger sailing vessels of 65 feet or greater require two or more additional deckhands.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Average Sailboat Maintenance Costs (with 4 Examples)

A lot of new boat owners overlook the maintenance costs of sailboats - and maintenance can get pricey quickly. To save you from surprises, here's a full overview of costs you can expect when owning a sailboat.

What is the average sailboat maintenance cost? The average annual maintenance cost of sailboats is between $2,000 - $3,000. However, larger boats of 30 feet and up will cost considerably more. The actual total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000, due to other recurring costs like docking and insurance fees.

However, what you'll actually pay really depends on the type of boat you have and what you do with it. Not all maintenance is as important. If you're on a budget, you can maintain your boat reasonably well for just $1,000 / year. I'll explain how below.

Maintenance cost for four boat types:

Your specific maintenance cost will vary depending on what type of boat you have and how you'll use it. Below, I'll go over four different situations and explain what type of maintenance you'll most likely will and won't do, and what the price tag is for each situation.

24 ft Daytripper

Most people starting out will get a smaller size boat and use it for day trips and weekend trips. These boats have less moving parts and less critical parts. It will be important to maintain a couple of parts, though:

seasonal maintenance

With a first boat, you most likely won't invest in new sails or the standing rigging if you don't have to.

The total maintenance cost for a small daytripper will average around $1,600 per year or $133 per month.

30 ft Budget Sailboat

What would be the maintenance cost if you were on a tight budget? Well, for starters, I'd recommend doing most small maintenance yourself and ignore all non-essential. On sailboats, however, there aren't a lot of non-essential parts. But here are some things we could do out to save some big bucks:

don't set aside money for long-term recurring maintenance (rigging, sails, hardware, and batteries)
don't outsource engine maintenance, instead do oil changes ourselves
antifoul less frequently (every 4 years)
budget DIY winterization

Winterizing your boat yourself can cost you as little as $50 for antifreeze and an oil change afterward.

The total maintenance cost on a tight budget can get as low as $275 per year, or $23 per month.

34 ft Liveaboard

Liveaboards that don't really sail that much have less maintenance to do in one way, and more in another. The sails, rigging, and engine will be less critical if you won't take her out very often. Also, you'll have plenty of time doing odd jobs yourself, since you'll be living on the boat. On the other hand, it will be very important to maintain hull health, as even small leaks will lead to condensation and mold, which is horrible for your health and living standard.

Replacing electronics won't be very important - however, your batteries will need to be replaced more often.

Important maintenance:

hull cleaning and painting
replacing batteries

If you live on a boat in a location where it falls below freezing temperature (good luck!).

The total maintenance cost for a liveaboard will average around $1,550 per year or $129 per month.

40 ft Bluewater Cruiser

If you own a bluewater cruiser, your maintenance cost will go up a lot. Saltwater is a lot more corrosive, and the stress on your rigging and sails will be higher. Sun wear and constant use will wear down the sails and rigging even more. Your engine will wear out faster, and you'll need more incidental repairs as well.

The interval of longterm maintenance will increase dramatically in these conditions.

On top of that, maintaining your boat properly is critical. In marine environments, everything can go wrong exactly one time for it to be critical.

You want a reliable boat, which means you'll fix anything that needs fixing immediately.

Your sail area will most likely also be larger, which means your sail replacement will be more expensive.

One advantage is that you might not need to winterize if you're a fulltime cruiser since you'll probably spend your winters in Bermuda.

The total maintenance cost for a bluewater cruiser will average around $3,225 per year or $269 per month.

There are three types of maintenance:

seasonal maintenance - yearly recurring jobs
long-term recurring maintenance
incidental maintenance

Let's go over each type and break down which costs to expect exactly.

Winterizing

Winterization is an often-overlooked cost, but it can be one of the largest expenses each year. If you're like me, and not so lucky to live in Florida, you need to winterize your boat.

Failing to winterize it will increase your maintenance cost over time, as the engine wears out more quickly, and your plumbing and equipment will fall apart. Winter storms and ice can damage the hull and mast as well. Learn all about the dangers of failing to winterize here .

It's the best way to protect your boat in wintertime, period.

It consists of two parts:

Winterizing - costs $500 to $1000 - This is the preparation for winter storage. You flush the cooling system with anti-freeze, and the boat gets wrapped in a shrink wrap cover.
Winter storage - costs $50 per ft on average

Here's the full winterizing checklist

For dry storage, part of the process can be to shrink wrap your boat. Now, this is expensive, and it is hard on the environment. Some boaters don't shrink wrap in the winter because of it.

Here's the average cost to shrink wrap a boat

Antifouling

Your boat will need bottom paint roughly every 2 years (could be longer, but to be safe, let's keep it at two). It's also called antifouling paint because it helps to protect your hull from weeds, barnacles, and so on. Barnacles can slice through your boat's bellow! So you don't want them on there.

On average, it costs about $15 to $20 per foot to get your sailboat hull painted professionally.

For a 26' sailboat, that's just 500 bucks. Money well spent.

Read more on the cost of antifouling your boat

Batteries have a limited number of charge cycles. Deep cycle batteries (which are best for household functionality) need replacing every 4-6 years and will cost roughly $600. If you use your batteries extensively, they will most likely need replacing after 3-4 years, for example, for liveaboards or full-time cruisers.

Replacing the sails

Good quality cruising sails will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.

The cost of new sails is on average:

26' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $1,000 - $2,500.
34' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $3,000 - $5,000.

I won't go into detail, but I have written an in-depth article about the cost of new sails (opens in new tab). It's a really helpful post (with a formula) if you want to know what to expect.

Replacing the standing rigging

Most people that own a sailboat will have to replace the sails and rigging at least once in their lifetime. Replacing the mast is uncommon, but if you're unlucky and get demasted, it will need to be fixed. So I've added it to the "be aware this might happen" list - but won't add it to the monthly recurring costs.

Standing rigging are the cables that support the mast. Click here for a full walkthrough with diagrams.

If you need to replace the mast and boom, prepare to spend anywhere between $15,000 - $25,000.

The cost of replacing the standing rigging is, on average, $4,000 every 10 years.

Running rigging

The running rigging consists of all the lines, sheets, and so on that is used to haul and operate the sails. It wears with time due to UV exposure, flogging, strain from the wind, and regular use. In most cases, you'll only have to replace your running rigging every 5-10 years, but it will cost you $5,000 on average.

Deck Hardware

Deck hardware consists of the bullseyes, tiller , eye straps, cleats , and so on. All this small hardware needs to be replaced every 20-30 years and will amount to about $1,500.

Engine & Engine Parts

Gas engines run for about 1,500 hours, diesel engines run for 5,000. After that, you'll need to change them out.

Most engines will last you about 20 years, depending on the amount of use and whether you use it properly. Gas engine will last a lot less long than diesels.

A standard 15HP or 20HP outboard gas engine will cost you about $5,000 - $6,000 and needs replacing every 20 years or so. If you do the work yourself, it's more something like $1,000 - $1,500.

Read more on the lifetime expectancy of marine diesels here

Replacing the engine

sailboats with inboard engine: $5,000 - $10,000
sailboats with outboard engine: $1,000 - $1,500
most powerboats (inboard engine): $15,000 - $35,000
small outboard engines (2-5 hp): $1,000 - $1,500
large outboard engines (100+ hp): $10,000+
installation cost: $200 - $2,000

Installation Prices

The installation of the engine will cost a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. With inboard engines, this is not something you can easily do yourself - it isn't just unscrewing a motor and screwing a new one in.

The deciding factor of how much will this cost exactly is whether you can simply bolt the new engine in or whether you have to adjust all other parts, including shaft logs, exhausts, electrics, and so on.

Of course, if you have an outboard engine the installation price will be nothing more than a few drops of sweat, swearing, and back pain for a day or two.

Read more on boat engine replacement costs here.

Risers and Manifolds

cost of 1 riser : $140 - $200
cost of 1 exhaust manifold: $150 - $300
cost of labor: $500 - $1,500

Most people need 2 risers + 2 exhaust manifolds. Parts total: $600 on average That's just what it is. Where you can really save some money, is on the labor. Labor total: $1,000 on average It's about a days worth of work. A professional needs roughly 8 hours to get the job done.

Read more about the cost of replacing risers and manifolds here.

Boat starter replacement

Inboard engine (and generator) starters cost from $40 - over $1,000 depending on the engine. Outboard starters run from about $100 - $500. Skilled marine technicians charge from $75 - $150 per hour. Your costs will range from a couple of hundred dollars for a small outboard up to over a thousand for a large or difficult to reach inboard.

That's a broad range, but if you know what you need for your boat, then you can get a better idea of the cost. The final price depends on two things - what type of engine you have, and how hard it is to get to the starter.

Read more on the average cost to replace a boat starter here.

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

Lifejackets have to be replaced every 10 years.
Flares have to be replaced every 42 months. You could consider buying a LED electric distress light instead, which will last you a lifetime.
If you carry a life-raft you'll need to replace that every 12 years as well.

Adhering to the minimum safety requirements shouldn't cost you more than 150 - 250 dollars every 5 years. But if you want the good stuff, need more fire extinguishers, plan on spending more like $600. If you want a life raft, that's another $1,500.

To avoid you have to go cheap on your safety gear, I've put it in the budget for $500.

If you want to know exactly what the USCG safety requirements are, including checklists , definitely check out my article here.

Hull repairs
Electronics update
Recovering a sunken boat
Sailboat mast replacement
Keel repairs
Rudder repairs
Replacing or refabricing boat cushions

One-time costs:

Registration : costs of registration differ per state, but usually run anywhere from $3 - $10 per foot.
Taxes : differs per state and country. Most governments want you to pay property tax and sales tax. Sales tax is usually about 5%. Property tax varies and is more complex, so I'll leave that up to you to figure out.
Trailer : $1,000
Sailing club initiation fee : $1,500 - $4,000

Recurring costs:

Mooring : $10-15 per foot per year (can be much higher for prime locations)
Insurance : typically 1.5% of the total value of the boat. So a $50,000 26' cruiser will cost 750 bucks.
Maintenance : a good rule of thumb is 10% of the boat value. Expect to spend anywhere between $500 - $2,500 per year for small to mid-sized boats.
Fuel : depends on how much you use the boat and the engine, but on average something between $100 - $150. - Find out how much fuel a sailboat uses in my article here (opens in new tab).
International License : if you want to sail on international waters, you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence ). Plan on spending anywhere between 400 to 500 dollars.
Safety equipment : plan on spending anywhere between 150 to 600 bucks for lifejackets, first aid kit, and distress signals.
Winterize boat : $2,000
Sailing club: $800 - $1,500

Vonnie Harrington

Dear improvesailing.com webmaster, Your posts are always well-supported by facts and figures.

Bryon Soper

Hello improvesailing.com webmaster, You always provide useful information.

Tressa Valencia

To the improvesailing.com admin, Your posts are always well-referenced and credible.

You may also like, how much sailboats cost on average (380+ prices compared).

Turns out that owning a sailboat is pretty affordable. OK, it isn't cheap, but it can absolutely be done on a budget. In this article, I'll show you exactly what to …

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if you hate big trucks, look away now —

The 2024 chevrolet silverado ev’s great range comes at a high cost, at $94,500, the chevrolet silverado rst first edition offers diminishing returns..

Michael Teo Van Runkle - May 23, 2024 4:00 pm UTC

The latest addition to Chevrolet's growing family of Ultium electric vehicles recently began shipping to dealers in the form of the Silverado EV's early RST First Edition package. Silverado's top spec level now joins the lineup's previous fleet-only WT trim, meaning the general public can now purchase an enormous electric pickup that strongly resembles the Avalanche of 2001 to 2013. But despite any other similarities to the Hummer EV , which shares a related chassis, or ICE trucks of old, the 2024 Silverado aims to change the game for GM's market positioning despite arriving a full 24 months after Ford's F-150 Lightning .

With a large crew cab, a longer truck bed, and angular sail panels, the Silverado EV looks less boxy than GMC's Hummer EV. Aero gains thanks to the smoother design pair with lower rolling-resistance tires, allowing the Silverado to achieve an EPA range estimate of up to 450 miles (724 km), though the RST First Edition I recently drove over the course of a long day in Michigan earns a rating of 440 miles (708 km).

On the highway, judging by wind noise around the cabin alone, the aerodynamic gains of the Silverado's styling seem to make a noticeable difference versus the Hummer. On the other hand, tire hum might cover up any aero deficiencies because the RST's single weirdest detail constantly occupies center stage here: a set of 24-inch wheels, the largest ever equipped to a car, truck, or SUV straight from the factory.

At 24 inches, the Silverado RST rides on simply gargantuan wheels. While it means acceptable towing performance, it comes with quite a hit to the ride.

Shod in low-profile Michelin Primacy LTX tires pumped up to 61 and 68 PSI front and rear, which simultaneously maximizes range and load rating, the large wheels and minimal sidewall clearly stress much of the new truck's suspension and ability to filter out noise, vibration, and harshness. Even in town, on the first few blocks of Detroit's rough roads, the setup immediately challenged the Silverado EV's adaptive air suspension, which otherwise worked surprisingly well on the mammoth Hummer.

But the Hummer EV I drove rode on 18-inch wheels, despite the similar 35-inch overall tire diameter. The much more compliant ride quality therefore creates a conundrum, since GM clearly intends for the Silverado to represent a much more rational and capable vision for electric performance in the full-size pickup truck market.

Specifically, the Silverado adds a longer bed, a Multi-Flex tailgate, and a central mid-gate (also à la Avalanche) to provide far more payload volume than the Hummer, as well as that of Silverado's main electric competition, the F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T, and Tesla Cybertruck. But the mid-gate required far more rugged materials for the Silverado's interior to enhance weatherproofing, so even the top-spec RST First Edition that starts at $94,500 now slots in at a much lower luxury level than the aforementioned EVs, as well as most internal-combustion Silverados.

The Silverado EV uses GM's new Ultifi infotainment system, which is built atop Android Automotive OS. Chevrolet
Super Cruise now works with a trailer attached. Chevrolet
The flexible midgate allows you to carry longer loads. Chevrolet
Onboard AC power is quite useful. Chevrolet

Still, Chevy says EV buyers love tech and packed the Silverado EV full of big screens, Google built-in (though no Apple CarPlay), and Super Cruise partially automated driving assist (the latter including for towing). That air suspension pairs 2 inches (50 mm) of ride height adjustability with up to 7.5 degrees of rear-wheel steering to make the large truck surprisingly maneuverable, but in the back of my mind, I always knew that the ease with which I just climbed in and started driving comes down to playing with physics as much as possible to mask the Silverado's significant heft.

Those 440 miles of range come at a serious cost, after all, in the form of a 205 kWh battery pack (around 200 kWH usable). All in, the RST tips the scales at a whopping 9,119 pounds (4,136 kg), not quite as much as a Hummer but fully 2,000 pounds (907 kg) more than a Lightning, R1T, or Cybertruck. No wonder the suspension struggles without taller tire sidewalls to help out. I fiddled through the 17.7-inch touchscreen to set the air suspension on Tour, which reduced unwanted feedback noticeably but created some rafting effects and still never fully eliminated clunking on the worst road surfaces. Future models, including a Trail Boss on the way, should come with smaller wheels and taller tires—to match the current WT's 18-inch wheels and 33-inch tires, hopefully.

But the prospect of actually off-roading such a heavy EV definitely approaches a level of absurdity that the Hummer EV similarly delivered in spades. Neither comes with a spare tire, despite impressive storage volume that only improves on the Silverado. Flipping down the tailgate and mid-gate allows for up to 10 feet, 10 inches (3.3m) of bed length, or 9 feet (2.7m) with the mid-gate closed and just the Multi-Flex tailgate down. The bed alone measures 5-foot-11 (1.8m).

Chevrolet was keen to impress that its truck bed is bigger than other electric pickups. Michael Teo Van Runkle
The aerodynamic detailing was presaged by the turn-of-the-century Avalanche pickup. Michael Teo Van Runkle
There are a whole range of towing assists. Michael Teo Van Runkle
The controls here are for trailer settings. Michael Teo Van Runkle
Two miles/kWh is not great but in the range of what we expect for an electric pickup truck. Michael Teo Van Runkle

On the interior, at 6-foot-1 (1.85m) with long limbs, I actually needed to scoot the driver's seat up and forward. The RST's (not-optional) panoramic glass roof helps to enhance the perceived spaciousness but required that I keep the air conditioning and ventilated seats at full blast on a hot Michigan day—other than when I struggled to figure out how to keep the system running while parked since the truck has no dedicated on-off button other than a pair of widget icons at the left of the home screen. A retractable screen for the roof is on the way, I was told.

The Silverado EV's range proved more than legitimate, at least based on this first drive. Over the course of 107 miles (172 km) of combined city and highway driving in one truck, I used 24 percent of the battery and 105 miles (169 km) of estimated range. And that's including two hard eighth-mile launches with WOW (Wide Open Watts) mode activated, which unleashes the dual motor drivetrain's full 754 hp (562 kW) and 785 lb-ft (1,064 Nm) of torque. Those two launches alone used eight miles of range, for better or worse.

GM won't disclose non-WOW power figures, but responsiveness definitely drops to help extend overall range performance. In Tow/Haul mode with a 5,800-lb (2,630 kg) trailer hooked up for 21 miles (34 km), I nonetheless accelerated easily up to highway speeds and even used Super Cruise's towing capability—all while eating through only 22 claimed miles of range at speeds around 40-60 miles per hour (64-96 km/h).

Chevy set up an impromptu drag strip so we could test the Silverado's launch.

The Silverado EV's range sets it far ahead of the Lightning (at 240 miles or 386 km), though Rivian and Tesla do better. Various levels of home-charging setups help to make the large battery pack more attractive, and though I never needed nor got a chance to charge, expect GM's claimed 350 kW max charging speed to similarly hold up. As usual, charging stations will likely throttle that speed back more regularly than the truck itself, which should manage a 10–80 percent charge time of around 40 minutes in ideal circumstances.

In the end, although it's not quite as cartoonishly large and simultaneously far more practical than the Hummer EV, the Silverado uses 205 kilowatt-hours worth of lithium and other rare earth metals, contributing mightily to the RST weighing well north of 9,000 pounds. Yes, the truck combines the best utility of any EV on the market, with solid tech and range to attract stubborn EV holdouts. But how many hybrids could Chevy have built using so much battery? Until pricing drops lower than this truck's $94,500 sticker, the Silverado RST ends up as a reminder of the diminishing returns, environmentally and economically, of building what customers, unfortunately, believe is necessary using today's technology, which likely still needs to take another major leap forward to make such a truck more feasible for widespread adoption.

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COMMENTS

Are these reasonable Haul out fees?
It's our first boat, so I just wanted a quick opinion on what we were quoted (southern California area): $144 for the actual haul out. $118 to pressure wash. $3/ft/day for storage (~$75 a day, no free days) $50 for every gallon of paint we bring ourselves. $54 for a hazardous waste fee.
Boat Haul Out
Boat Haul Out. Advertisement. For many, an annual haulout is the end of the boating season. ... Pressure washing the boat is often included in the cost of the haulout. ... Irrespective of what other work you may have to do when the boat's out of the water, now's the time to check the anodes and replace them if they are more than 50 percent ...
Understanding Sailboat Transport Costs: Factors and Pricing
Internationally, however, sailboats require deck space on maritime cargo ships for overseas transport. Around $100-150 per linear foot significantly boosts costs for extended global voyages. Speedier aircraft charters for masts/hardware offset slower boat passage but introduce steep air freight expenses.
The Ultimate Haul-Out Guide (Includes Free Checklist)
With your checklist complete and fresh bottom paint and anodes, you will have made the most of this annual ritual. The game plan helps preserve the value of your boat and sets you up well for another season on the water, or for your next cruising adventure. CLICK HERE to download your FREE Haul-Out Checklist!
2020 Washington Haul-Out Guide
650 Marine Drive NE, Olympia, WA 98501. www.portolympia.com. 360-528-8059. [email protected]. Haul-out options include an 82-ton travel lift for vessels from 17' to 80' in length and up to 21' wide and a jib crane with a 10,000-pound capacity. Forklift and crane services are also available on site.
What is the average cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat
The cost of hauling out a boat depends on several factors, such as the size and weight of the vessel, the location of the marina, and the type of services needed. On average, the cost to haul out a 50-foot full keel sailboat can range from $800 to $3,500, depending on the location and the specific marina or boatyard.
Sailboat Haul Out Methods: A Cruiser's Guide
If your sailboat is small and light enough, you may be able to use a boat trailer to haul it out of the water. It is a cost-effective option, as you can often rent a trailer and do the haul out yourself. But, it may not be suitable for most cruising boats. Travel Lift. A travel lift is a type of crane that can lift your sailboat out of the ...
The Ultimate Guide: The Cost to Maintain a Sailboat Explained
The average annual maintenance cost of sailboats is between $2,000 - $3,000, but larger boats can cost up to $7,000 due to other recurring costs like docking and insurance fees. It really depends on the type of boat and its usage. For those on a budget, it is possible to maintain a boat for just $1,000 per year. 6.
Hauling Out a Boat: Everything You Need to Know About Hauling
The boat haul-out cost depend on the yard and team you choose, but you can expect to pay around $26 per foot. Cost can include running gear maintenance, through hull fittings, and bottom painting. Contact your local boat hauling service crew for an accurate estimate. ...
Hauling Out and Laying Up Ashore
Clean cockpit seats and cushions; Spars and Rigging. Remove jackstays; Remove mainsheet, vang, runners etc; Tie out halyards; Secure boom on deck; Hauling out your boat and laying her up safely ashore at the end of the the sailing season is not something to take lightly. Here's how to do it right.
What to Expect During a Haul Out
It may be a no-brainer to some but plan to be present on the day of your boat's haul out. This way, you can see firsthand the condition of the boat's hull before it's cleaned and power washed. Most yards will do this immediately, so the "fouling" (built-up plant and animal life on the boat's bottom) doesn't set like concrete.
Services
haul out/pressure wash/block/launch 45 ft. & under - $10.00 per ft. 46 ft & over - $12.00 per ft. *please note: hurricane rates are doubled the standard haul out cost. this does not include pressure washing. boats must be cleaned and barnicle free prior to arrival. last boat launched, first boat hauled after 24 hour storm clearance has been ...
Understanding the Costs of Owning a Sailboat
Haul-out and Bottom Painting: Periodically hauling out the boat to apply anti-fouling paint to the hull. Rigging: This ... size, condition, and whether it's new or used. For example, a new sailboat can cost anywhere from $96,000 to $654,000, while a used sailboat can range from $19,000 to $518,000. Popular sailboats such as the Catalina 30 ...
Cost for haul out?
My yard in Narragansett Bay gets $10/ft for a 1 hour short haul and $2 for a power wash. That $480 for my 40 foot Hunter and $444 for your 37 Hunter. Maine Sail
Sailboat Cost Calculator
Total one-time cost. $ 24000. Total monthly cost. $ 261. Total yearly cost. $ 3135. Total cost first year. $ 27975.
Rates
Costs may vary by job. We will provide an estimate once we inspect the boat. In most all cases you will find that our services cost less than other boatyards. ... *Add $275 to any haul out of a boat 45' and larger *If additional third sling is needed - add $200 (ex. wood boats 36′ and above) *If special blocking or pads need to be used ...
How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)
Best-value ocean cruiser (40') $166,000. $1,300. The average price of new sailboats is $425,000 ($127,000 to $821,000). The average price of used sailboats is $278,000 ($67,000 to $555,000). Maintenance costs are on average $2,000 - $3,000 per year, and the average total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000. Of course the price of a sailboat depends ...
Everything to Remember when Hauling Out a Boat
1) Haul boat out, pressure wash immediately before the hull dries. 2) Block the boat and stage for out-of-water work. 3) Inspect and confirm the work list and original estimate. 4) Negotiate and finalize add-on work found during out-of-water inspection. 5) Begin work on clearances, running gear, propellers.
Transport a Sailboat
Sailboats can be transported by single-axle trailers, multi-axle trailers, cargo ships, and occasionally trains. Sailboats can also be transported across an ocean on their own with the help of a hired captain and crew. Costs vary widely based on size and type, and they range from $200 to more than $15,000.
OUR RATES
OUR RATES. Rates vary depending on the size of your boat and project needs. CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE FOR PRICING DETAILS. CSR Marine North - Seattle /Ballard: 206-632-2001. CSR Marine South - Des Moines Marina: 206-878-4414. LABOR. General Labor /per hour - Call for free estimate.
Average Sailboat Maintenance Costs (with 4 Examples)
The average annual maintenance cost of sailboats is between $2,000 - $3,000. However, larger boats of 30 feet and up will cost considerably more. The actual total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000, due to other recurring costs like docking and insurance fees. However, what you'll actually pay really depends on the type of boat you have and what ...
How much does/should a haul out cost? (Catalina 22) : r/sailing
Or rather, putting the boat back in the water. My yacht club has a crane, so I've never had to pay it before. There's a couple of boat yards, but…
SF Bay: Haulout and DIY advice needed
Location: Boat is currently at a marina in Point Richmond, CA. Boat: Pacific Seacraft "Crealock" 34'. Posts: 66. SF Bay: Haulout and DIY advice needed. Hello all: I brought my boat to Point Richmond two years ago after 5 years in the Sea of Cortez. After Covid, there's substantial deferred maintenance that needs doing.
The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV's great range comes at a high cost
In Tow/Haul mode with a 5,800-lb (2,630 kg) trailer hooked up for 21 miles (34 km), I nonetheless accelerated easily up to highway speeds and even used Super Cruise's towing capability—all while ...