For pontoon boat owners, learning how to store a pontoon boat whether in season or during the winter months is a must. This boating resource guide will give you everything you need to know about storing pontoon boats.
As much as we want to be on the water all the time, sometimes life and nature have some other plans. Proper pontoon boat storage is an essential part of protecting your investment, saving money on repair costs, and adding years to your pontoon’s life on the water.
One of the major parts of pontoon boat ownership is learning how to store your pontoons when it’s not in use.
In this guide, we’ll be answering all the important questions about storing pontoon boats. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Pontoon Boat Storage: What Are Your Options
Pontoon boat storage options are generally divided into two categories:
- Dry boat storage (out of the water)- Storing the boat on your trailer, driveway, or backyard; Or renting space at a public storage facility
- Wet Storage Marina(on the water)
Dry boat storage is one of the more popular options because it can be a lot safer and more affordable. With your pontoon out of the water, there are fewer chances of damaging your boat’s exterior and reduce the chance of mildew and other water-induced inconveniences.
Storing your boat on your own land means you don’t have to pay monthly fees but one big disadvantage to it is the inconvenience of the transport.
Wet Storage Marina on the other hand also has its advantages, storing it on the water means your boat is ready to take out at a moment’s notice.
While it’s convenient, wet storage can sometimes take a toll on your boat as water can damage the bottom part of the boat adding additional cost to your rental.
How Do You Store Pontoon Boats?
Whether you are simply looking for ways how to store a pontoon boat for winter or sealing it up for longer-term storage. The steps below will ensure that it’s safe and in great working condition when you finally take it out to the water again.
- Secure your boat onto a trailer and haul it to its storage facility.
- Fill the fuel tank within 1 inch of the top of the fuel tank filler hose. This forces the air out of the tank. And add a fuel stabilizer.
- Change and replace oil filters.
- Drain engine oil. Remove the spark-plug wires and plugs.
- Spray a fogging oil through the spark plug holes in the head
- Replace the spark plugs with new ones and fill them with fresh oil.
- Replace the old engine coolant and replace it with a non-toxic, propylene glycol-based antifreeze
- Disconnect the battery and store it somewhere cool and dry.
- Clean the boat thoroughly (inside and out) removing the season’s dust, barnacles, and grime. Remove all loose gear and supplies as well as leftover food and drinks.
- Wipe the upholstery and make sure that everything is dry before covering.
- Cover the boat whether you’re going to keep it inside or outside.
- Keep the pontoons off the ground by placing blocks under the welds of the pontoons, or you can also place it on a pontoon boat trailer.
- Use a repellent to keep away mice and other critters from chewing holes through the cover.
For those whose choice is only limited to in-water storage, buying or renting a boat marina slip is what you need. However, it is worth noting that marina slips are quite expensive to rent. If you ever decide to use a marina slip, better go for a covered one.
The cover may protect your vessel from the sun and other elements like rain, but it will not stop birds and critters from getting into your pontoon so it’s best to put a heavy-duty pontoon boat cover on it.
How Much Does It Cost To Store A Pontoon Boat?
There are many factors when it comes to owning a pontoon boat. At the forefront is the cost of purchasing a vessel and maintenance, but where you’ll be storing it and its cost is just as important.
We already know that there are many storage options for pontoons, here is what you’ll expect when it comes to the cost of each one.
- Marina Storage: $5 – $30 per ft. and up/ month
- Indoor Boat Storage: $10 – $40 per ft./ month
- Outdoor Boat Storage: $5 – $20 per ft./ month
- Dry Stacked Storage: $10 – $30 per ft./ month
Pontoon boats are perfect for lazy days on the lake, fishing or for entertaining. After a season of fun, adventure and relaxation on the water there will always be a time to wave goodbye to your boats.
Whether it’s short or long term storage, use this pontoon boat storage guide to keep your pontoons safe and ready for your next boating rendezvous.
Pontoon Boat Accessories
Pontoon boats are a great way to have some outdoor family fun on the lake or a party with friends out on the open sea. Check out these practical must-have pontoon boat accessories to add to your boat for smooth sailing.
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Recommended Boating Resources
- Recommended Pontoon Boat Accessories
- Best Boat Snacks– These are easy to make and yummy, too
- Pontoon Boat Hacks– Simplify your days on the water with these boating hacks
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