How to prepare your boat for the season ahead by Advanced Rigging and Hydraulics

2026 promises to be a fantastic season of World Cruising Club rallies where sailors from around the world will experience new places, challenges and cultures. However, ahead of these adventures, it’s vital to prepare your boat correctly to maximise the enjoyment of your sailing. 

To assist with ‘off season’ preparation, World Cruising Club corporate member, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics, has provided a guide on how to ‘winterise’ your rigging, as well as how to care for different types of rigging.  

Why winterising matters

 Winter brings its own challenges: freezing temperatures, heavy winds, and damp conditions can all take their toll. Without proper care, these elements can damage rigging and hydraulics, leaving you with costly repairs - or worse, a compromised boat - when the new season arrives. A proactive approach now will safeguard performance and reliability later.

 Standing rigging

 Rigging checks

Every yacht, regardless of how often it sails, should have a full rig inspection at least once a year. Offshore race boats, pushed hard in heavy weather, should undergo checks both before and after each event. 

• Professional inspection: Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics offers impartial mast and rigging inspections for yachts of all sizes and ages. Advanced Rigging can provide detailed reports to highlight any issues, provide annual maintenance records, and act as a valuable reference for the future. 
• Self-inspection: If you prefer to check your rig yourself, carefully examine wire rigging for frayed wires, broken strands, or rust, especially where the wire enters the swage. Check that split pins, rings, and shackles are secure, and pay attention to spreader roots, rigging attachment points, and masthead sheaves. 

Cleaning, lubrication & tension

• Wash rigging with mild soap and water to remove dirt and salt, then apply a quality lubricant to protect against corrosion.
• Check and adjust tension to reduce abrasion and movement in heavy conditions.
• Every few years, it’s worth unstepping the rig to dismantle, clean, and inspect all components. Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics can manage this whole process for you, from storage to recommissioning in spring.

 Running rigging

 Your lines and ropes also deserve attention at the end of the season. Proper care now will extend their life and maintain safety on board. 

• Inspect: Look for fraying or damage, especially in high-stress areas such as winches, cleats, and blocks.
• Wash: Clean thoroughly to remove salt and dirt that cause premature wear.
• Replace: Swap out any worn lines. Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics, supply a wide range of high-strength ropes from leading brands - Gottifredi Maffioli, Liros, and Kingfisher Ropes - custom-made and hand-finished with premium hardware.
• Store: Coil and store lines neatly in a dry, protected place to preserve condition over winter. 

Hydraulics systems 

Hydraulics are critical for both performance and comfort, and winter is the ideal time for preventative care. 

• Inspection: Have a professional technician check hoses, fittings, and connections. The Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics’ Sparcare service team are factory-trained in Navtec and Reckmann systems.
• Servicing: Flush and clean systems, change oil and filters, and replace worn components to avoid leaks or failures.
• Lubrication: Apply manufacturer-approved lubricants to moving parts such as winches, windlasses, and stabilisers to keep them running smoothly.

If you are planning a larger winter project or want professional support, you can contact the Advanced Rigging and Hydraulics https://advancedrigging.co.uk/  team who can help you keep your boat in top condition year-round.