Plan Boat Relocation Early for an Easy Fall Boat Move

Can you believe it’s already September? While we’re still enjoying these last beautiful days on the water, the smart boaters among us are already looking ahead to the end of the season, searching “boat movers near me” and “boat transport cost”. In fact, Master Captain Ben just moved our first boat yesterday from Belmont Harbor to Chicago Yacht Works (formerly known as Sunset Bay Marina), and it was a great reminder: it’s not too soon to start making your boat relocation plans!

Chicago Harbors close on October 31, and those final weeks can be a scramble. Don’t get caught without a plan! A crucial detail often overlooked is that fuel dock hours shorten significantly as the season winds down. Be sure to check the most up-to-date information on hours and closures at the Chicago Harbors website.

Where Will Your Boat Call Home This Winter?

You have a variety of excellent options for winter storage, depending on your preferences and location:

• Wisconsin: Several marinas offer fantastic storage solutions.
• Illinois: Beyond Chicago, many facilities can accommodate your boat. Our favorite? Crowley’s Yacht Yard.
• Indiana: Consider Trail Creek Marina in conjunction with the Michigan City Port Authority for a great option.
• Michigan: Popular choices include Yacht Basin Marina or Gull Lake Marine in South Haven, both known for their excellent service.

The Chicago Harbors website offers a list of approved storage facilities, so please check with them before making arrangements! 

When planning your storage, think about what’s best for your vessel:

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Indoor storage offers superior protection from the elements.
• Heated vs. Cold Indoor Storage: Heated indoor storage is ideal for sensitive systems, as it can prevent issues like mold and mildew, albeit at a higher cost.
• Winterization: This is non-negotiable! Please make sure your boat is properly winterized to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
• Off-Season Work: The off-season is the perfect time for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. Many marinas offer services, or you can plan to have work done while your boat is stored. If using an outside vendor for repairs- check with the marina to make sure they permit outside vendors! 

Thinking about a longer trip but feeling a little nervous? Why not ride along with us on your boat’s relocation move? It’s an incredible opportunity for a personalized boating lesson*, helping you get comfortable with longer passages and new navigation skills. The experienced team at Boat Safe Chicago will help you plan and coordinate the perfect move, ensuring everything goes smoothly. You can even check pricing and book your move online directly through our website! (*Boat lessons require an extra fee)

Remember, when it comes to boat moves, we are always beholden to Mother Nature. We always recommend planning a primary move date with at least one backup date to account for any unexpected weather changes.

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