Hiring A Surveyor When Buying A Narrowboat
Hiring a surveyor when buying a narrowboat can can be both time consuming and very stressful, so it’s important to be well prepared.
RIB Insurance Guide
Whether you’re using your RIB for cruising, short trips, water skiing or diving expeditions, knowing that you have the right RIB insurance to meet your needs gives you peace of mind.
Buying a Narrowboat or Wide-Beam
You may be thinking of buying a new or used narrowboat, or a wide-beam boat for cruising or exploring Britain’s beautiful rivers or canals. In most cases, boats are considered to be the second most expensive purchase you will ever make, so try not to rush the process.
FAQ’s about RIBs
Inflatable Boats – RIBs and SIBs – An Introduction. This blog looks at the differences between a RIB and a SIB, what they are used for and how to maintain them.
Onshore Boat Storage
In choosing insurance for your boat, the type of storage you opt for is important. Keeping your boat secure and safe can be done in many different locations. The more secure, of course, the better.
Buying A Boat
Buying a boat is a large investment, so if you are considering purchasing one, it’s good to be thoroughly prepared.
Selling A Boat
If the time has come to sell your boat, the key to getting a good price for it is preparation.
Preparing your Boat for the Winter
Preparing your boat for the winter will help protect it from the elements of cold weather, making sure it’s ready to get back in the water when you are.
Preparing your Boat for the Winter
If you’re not planning to use your boat over the winter months, then now’s the time to think about bringing it ashore and protecting it against whatever the elements have in store. Winter boat preparation is vitally important to reduce the need for expensive repairs in the spring. What you do depends on the type of boat of course, and it may be a familiar routine, but here is a reminder of some of the key points.
General
- Check the exterior of the boat by cleaning it, ensuring there is no cracking or any blisters. If you can do this a few weeks before you are due to leave your boat, it gives you some time to organise or carry out any necessary repairs.
- Check for small problems before they become big ones. Check things such as corrosion, broken seals, excessive wear and tear or loose connections.
- Cover your boat to protect it against the elements. If it has a cover, ensure that your boat cover is securely fastened and free of holes or gaps. If you can park your boat under a protective canopy or garage, this provides additional protection. If that’s not possible then try and store it in a location that would minimise wind exposure and bad weather, such as snow and debris.
- Make sure that your boat is securely tied down.
- Check your boat insurance policy for any conditions relating to winter storage, berthing or transit to make sure that you are properly insured.
- Refer to your boat owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your boat’s winter preparation.
Engine and fuel tank
- Remember to change the engine oil and the oil filter, which will help to keep the engine clear of corrosive elements.
- Check water coiling level and top it up if needed.
- Flush the engine with fresh water to remove salt, dirt and corrosion and then drain water from the engine.
- Top up the fuel tank to minimise fuel contamination.
Interior
- Remove any standing water and clean up any dirt or oil, making sure everything is dry.
- To prevent mould and mildew use dehumidifiers.
- Disconnect any water pumps and drain them of any water to avoid freezing pipes which may cause them to split and fracture.
Use these general tips to get you started, and please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn or have a look through our website for more tips.
