Navigating Boat Storage on Swans Island, Maine: A Local's Guide to Protecting Your Vessel
For boat owners on Swans Island, Maine, the end of the boating season brings a familiar and crucial task: finding the right boat storage. Our island's rugged beauty and exposed location in the Atlantic present unique challenges that demand careful planning. With harsh winters, nor'easters, and the ever-present salt air, how and where you store your boat isn't just a matter of convenience—it's an investment in its longevity. Whether you're a lobsterman with a working skiff or a summer resident with a pleasure craft, understanding your local storage options is key to ensuring your vessel is ready for another season of exploring the waters around Mount Desert Island and beyond.
Given Swans Island's climate, the primary decision is between indoor and outdoor storage. A fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor storage facility is the gold standard, especially for larger or newer boats. It offers complete protection from snow load, ice, and UV damage. However, availability of such premium space on the island itself can be limited. Many owners look to the mainland in Southwest Harbor or Bass Harbor for these services, which involves coordinating a haul-out and transport. A more common and practical solution for island residents is secure outdoor storage with a high-quality, custom-fitted cover. The cover must be waterproof and breathable to prevent mildew, and it should be supported by a sturdy frame to shed the heavy, wet snow we receive. Never use a tarp that traps moisture; it will do more harm than good.
Local preparation is everything. Before storage, a thorough freshwater wash-down is non-negotiable to remove corrosive salt. Pay special attention to flushing the engine and cleaning the hull. For in-water mooring over winter (less common due to ice risk), a bubbler system is essential to prevent ice damage. Dry storage, either on a trailer or on blocks in a designated yard, is generally safer. When choosing a location, even if it's on your own property, consider exposure to prevailing winds. A spot sheltered by trees or a building can make a significant difference. Finally, don't forget administrative tasks: properly winterize your engine, stabilize your fuel, and remove all valuables and electronics. For trailerable boats, ensure your trailer tires are off the ground or covered to prevent dry rot.
Securing the right boat storage on Swans Island requires early action. Contact local marinas, like the one at Mackerel Cove, or mainland storage yards by late summer, as spots fill quickly. By choosing a solution that accounts for our fierce winters and preparing your boat meticulously, you can rest easy knowing your vessel is safe. This foresight guarantees that come spring, you'll be back on the water with minimal hassle, ready to enjoy another spectacular season in our island paradise.