The off-season (invernaje): in the water or on the hard

Barcelona winters rarely freeze, so the choice is between staying in the water with regular checks or hauling out for storage and a maintenance window.

Updated 24 Oct 2026 2 min read

Key points

In the water: easy to use in winter, but fouling grows and storms test the lines.
On the hard: a dry hull, access for work, and a crane fee in both directions.
Tell your insurer how the boat will spend the winter. See the insurance guide.

Two options

In Spain, invernaje means the winter lay-up of a boat, usually ashore. The Catalan coast has mild winters, and many owners keep their boats in the water and use them. The choice depends on how much you sail between November and March and on the work the boat needs.

In the water

For: no crane costs, immediate use on a fine weekend, no cradle risk.
Against: growth on the hull, battery drain, and the risk of winter storms. A strong Llevant sends swell into some marinas. See Mediterranean weather from Barcelona: Tramuntana, Llevant, Garbí, Mestral.
Do: double the mooring lines and add chafe protection, check the bilge pumps and batteries, keep shore power connected with a working charger, visit every week or arrange a person to do it, and clean the hull before the season.

On the hard

For: a dry hull that does not absorb water, access to do hull work, and protection from storms. Spring antifouling fits into the same stay. See The annual maintenance schedule and antifouling.
Against: crane or travel-lift fees twice, yard storage fees, and no use of the boat.
Do: check the cradle or stands and the yard's insurance, ask how the boat will be supported, and cover with a breathable cover.

Lay-up checklist

Change engine oil and filters, so acids do not sit in the engine.
Fill the fuel tank to reduce condensation and add a diesel biocide if advised.
Remove sails, canvas, cushions and electronics, or store them dry.
Close the seacocks that are not needed, and drain water systems if frost is a risk in your area.
Disconnect or maintain the batteries.
Ventilate the cabin and use moisture absorbers.
Check the boat monthly, and after each storm.

Insurance

Many insurers set conditions for lay-up. See Marine insurance: cruising limits, agreed value, winter storage. Keep a record of your inspections.

Also useful at step 3 Marine insurance: cruising limits, agreed value, winter storage

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; check your own case with a professional or ask us.