What is the best practice for storing a boat when not in use?

Storing a boat in a dry, covered area is optimal as it protects the vessel from various environmental factors that can cause deterioration and damage. Exposure to the elements—such as rain, snow, UV rays, and extreme temperatures—can adversely affect the boat’s hull, interiors, and electronics. Stored properly, a boat remains in better condition, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and corrosion, and prolonging its lifespan. Additionally, a covered storage space ensures that the boat is shielded from falling debris, animal activity, and other potential hazards.

Other storage methods can compromise the boat's integrity; leaving it open and exposed allows for weather-related damage, while keeping it at the dock year-round can lead to growth from algae or barnacles and might result in wear from constant water exposure. Storing it in water, though it may seem practical, exposes the boat to the same risks, including degradation from prolonged immersion and the effects of water pollution or fluctuating water levels.