Boat Storage Guide for Australian Owners
Got a boat but no proper place to keep it?
Leaving it outside for long periods exposes Australia's high UV levels.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, most parts of Australia experiences average clear-sky UV levels of 11 or higher in January, which is classified as Extreme.
An enclosed facility limits direct weather exposure across your boat’s exterior and open areas. The gelcoat, upholstery, vinyl, plastics, rubber components and exposed fittings get better protection from direct UV while your boat is in storage.
This guide covers your boat storage options, preparation checks and the practical steps to keep your boat ready for your next trip.
What to Consider When Choosing Boat Storage
The right setup depends on where you live and how often you use your boat. A boat used every weekend has different storage needs from one that stays in storage for several months. Before you choose, see what each storage option can offer you.
Indoor or semi-covered dry-stack boat storage in Australia can cost around $250–$450 per month. The amount you pay will depend on your boat’s size, location, security and the type of storage you choose.
What Happens When Your Boat Is Stored Outside
Prolonged outdoor storage increases your boat’s cumulative exposure to UV radiation, temperature changes, moisture and airborne salt in coastal areas. Different materials respond to that exposure in different ways, which can lead to:
Cracked upholstery and vinyl
Chalky gelcoat
Hardened rubber components
Corrosion around metal fittings and fasteners
Corrosion around electrical connections
Mould or mildew developing in damp areas
If you’re moving your boat indoors to reduce the exposure, check the conditions inside the facility too. Good boat storage should provide proper ventilation and airflow so moisture doesn’t stay trapped around the boat while it’s stored.” - Jim’s Storage
If you’re putting your boat away for an extended period, take the time to prepare it properly for storage.
Why Prepare Your Boat Before Storage?
Fuel can deteriorate, batteries can lose charge, moisture can remain trapped and salt or dirt left on surfaces can continue to cause wear. Preparing these areas before storage helps keep the boat in better condition and reduces the work waiting for you when you use it again.
What you need to do depends on your boat, engine and equipment, so use the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific maintenance.
Clean and Dry Your Boat
Wash off salt, dirt and other residue then allow the boat to dry properly. Pay attention to areas where moisture can remain trapped, including storage compartments, upholstery and enclosed spaces. Putting the boat away wet can create conditions for mould, and corrosion while it sits unused.
Prepare the Engine for Storage
Follow the storage procedure specified by your engine manufacturer. Depending on the engine and how long it will remain unused, this can include flushing the cooling system and completing other manufacturer-specified maintenance.
If you’ve been boating in salt water, don’t put the engine into long-term storage without completing the required flushing and cleaning procedure.
Check the Fuel System
Marine fuel systems are vented, which can allow moisture-laden air into the fuel tank as fuel is used and temperatures change. Temperature, humidity, fuel age and storage conditions can all affect how long petrol remains satisfactory.
Before storing your boat for an extended period, follow the fuel-storage procedure specified by your engine and fuel-system manufacturer. This will give you the correct preparation steps for the equipment fitted to your boat.
Prepare the Battery
Fully charge the battery and disconnect it so equipment on the boat doesn’t continue to draw power. If your storage setup allows it, use a suitable battery maintainer to keep the battery charged during longer periods of inactivity.
If you can’t maintain the battery at the storage location, you may need to remove it and store it in a suitable dry location where it can be maintained. Always follow the battery and boat manufacturer’s storage instructions, particularly for lithium batteries, which can have different charging and storage requirements.
Checklist Before Using a Boat Storage Facility
If you’re moving your boat into a storage facility, check how the facility will store, protect and provide access to your boat. The facility needs enough space for your boat and trailer, with conditions suitable for your storage period.
Before choosing a facility, confirm:
✓ Type of storage provided: outdoor or fully enclosed.
✓ Maximum boat size allowed.
✓ Security measures used to control entry and protect the storage area.
✓ Hours available for accessing, collecting and returning your boat.
✓ Requirements for keeping your boat on its trailer during storage.
✓ Process for moving and handling your boat within the facility.
✓ Ventilation and airflow provided in indoor storage areas.
✓ Fire-safety procedures for stored boats, fuel and batteries.
✓ Responsibility for damage caused while staff handle your boat.
✓ Any insurance requirements or conditions that apply to off-site storage.
Getting these details upfront makes it easier to compare facilities and avoid unexpected restrictions after you commit.
Protect Your Boat With the Right Storage Setup
Your storage choice should provide the space, protection and conditions your boat needs while it’s not in use. Before committing to a facility, make sure you understand how your boat will be stored, accessed and protected.
Whichever option you choose, prepare your boat before putting it away. Follow the manufacturer’s requirements for the engine, fuel system and battery, keep the boat and trailer maintained, and check them periodically while they’re in storage.
The right storage setup, combined with proper preparation, helps protect your boat between trips and keeps it ready for the next time you head out on the water.
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