What are the questions to ask before hauling your boat so you don’t end up sorry?
Summary
You need to ask about more than price when you’re hauling your boat out at a yard. These are some questions to ask to avoid being unhappy and unable to relaunch your vessel.
That’s why you must protect yourself before the boat is hauled. Remember to ask:
Can you haul my boat? Some yards have limits. And it’s not just size — some will say no to catamarans, no to sailboats, no to wooden boats, or even noboats over a certain age.
Does the yard require special prep? Do you have to come in at high tide or back into the lift well? Must you remove your roller-furling headsails first? Ask ahead.
Do they allow DIY work? Not all yards do.
Can the yard do the work I want done? If you’re planning a specific project, confirm the yard has the ability and staff to do it.
Do they allow outside contractors? Some yards forbid both DIY work and outside contractors, requiring you to use their in-house staff. If they have a tight schedule or you don’t like the work quality, you can end up stuck.
How do they handle parts and supplies? Or do you have to use their parts shop and pay a markup?
Can you stay on the boat while it’s in the yard? Some don’t allow it at all. Others charge a fee. And they often lack amenities or have restrictions. If you can’t stay on the boat, you have to factor in the cost of accommodations elsewhere.
How secure is the yard? Will you and your belongings be secure?
Finally, Get written quotes and read the bottom line carefully. What are the Payment terms? And how do they address work you’re not happy with?
And finally, what is the yard’s reputation? Ask around for current references.
For more details, listen to the full podcast or check out What to Ask Before Hauling Out.
Today’s episode of The Boat Galley Podcast is sponsored by MantusMarine.com, maker of the Mantus anchor, now available in models with and without a roll bar. Proven to set reliably in the most challenging bottoms, the Mantus anchor digs like no other, making anchoring safer and boating more enjoyable. Mantus Marine brings to market practical, durable and affordable marine products, including: anchoring gear, scuba diving accessories, and rechargeable waterproof headlamp for hands-free lighting and solar charging Navigation light. Visit MantusMarine.com and see for yourself!
Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present.
Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig
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Carolyn Shearlock has lived aboard full-time for 17 years, splitting her time between a Tayana 37 monohull and a Gemini 105 catamaran. She’s cruised over 14,000 miles, from Pacific Mexico and Central America to Florida and the Bahamas, gaining firsthand experience with the joys and challenges of life on the water.
Through The Boat Galley, Carolyn has helped thousands of people explore, prepare for, and enjoy life afloat. She shares her expertise as an instructor at Cruisers University, in leading boating publications, and through her bestselling book, The Boat Galley Cookbook. She is passionate about helping others embark on their liveaboard journey—making life on the water simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
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