Why Full-Service Winterization is Worth It: Protect Your Boat This Winter

As the boating season winds down, it’s time to start thinking about protecting your investment. Proper winterization is essential for preventing costly damage during the off-season.

At Seattle Boat Company, we offer comprehensive winterization services that go beyond a standard drain-and-store approach. Whether you store your boat with us or trailer it yourself, this guide will help you understand what true protection should include and how to spot the difference between basic and full-service.

What’s Included in Our Full-Service Winterization

Full-service winterization ensures your boat is prepped and protected inside and out ahead of our areas annual winter freezes. Here’s what our comprehensive service includes:

• • Complete engine drain-down – to remove all raw water from blocks, manifolds, heat exchangers, and coolers

  • Engine Oil & Gear lube check, change & service – ensures no water intrusion and prevents gearcase damage
    
    

  • Back-flush & fill with marine-grade, non-toxic antifreeze – to protect all raw water systems against freezing and corrosion

  • Fuel system stabilization – add fuel stabilizer, run engine to circulate, and prevent varnish build-up over winter

  • Fogging oil application – to internal engine cylinders to protect against rust and corrosion during storage

  • Battery disconnect & maintenance – check battery condition and disconnect to prevent drain

  • Inspection of belts, hoses, and clamps – document any wear or damage for proactive spring repairs

• • Sea strainer clean-out – remove debris and backfill with antifreeze

  • Visual hull & prop inspection – note any damage or growth for repair planning

  • Documentation & recommendations – we record findings and advise on any off-season service needs

Full service winterization provides you peace of mind that your boat will be ready to go come spring.

Additional Services Provided as needed:

Boat makes and models vary in needs and options. Our team provides additional services for boats that require them on a case-by-case basis. 

• Ballast system flush & antifreeze (if equipped) – available as an add-on service to protect pumps and lines
  
  
• Generator & heater winterization (if equipped) – full antifreeze treatment to protect systems
  
  

• Freshwater system winterization – drain and protect sinks, washdowns, transom showers, ballast tanks (if equipped), and pumps with antifreeze

• Head & holding tank winterization (if equipped) – flush system with antifreeze to protect plumbing and seals

Full-Service vs. Basic: What’s the Difference?

Many shops offer what sounds like winterization, but in reality, it may only include a basic engine drain. This leaves your boat vulnerable to freezing, corrosion, and unplanned expenses.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of what you get with Seattle Boat Company:

Winterization Service Comparison Chart

Why Choose Seattle Boat?

Our team doesn’t just drain your boat and call it good — we take a proactive approach that protects your investment and saves you money in the long run. With decades of experience servicing boats in the Pacific Northwest, our technicians understand the exact needs of your vessel in winter conditions.

We also provide optional add-ons like:

• Tune-up services

• Buff and wax detailing

• Interior deep cleaning

These services can be scheduled alongside your winterization appointment.

Whether you’re storing your boat with us or just looking for a reliable winterization partner, we’re here to help.

Ready to Book?

Winter appointments fill up fast. Don’t wait until freezing temps sneak up on you. Reach out today at seattleboat.com to schedule your full-service winterization and ask about optional services.

Let us take care of your boat so it’s ready when you are come spring!

📞 Call or Text Us:

SERVICE DEPARTMENT HOURS
Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday – Sunday | Closed
After Hours Drop-Off Available (Mon–Sun)

Seattle: 206.633.2628
Newport: 425.641.2090
Lake Tapps: 253.891.0762
Kent: 253.872.8191