Winterisation of a boat

[Compostella]

As the boating season draws to an end, I am going to pull my boat out of the water and put it on hardstanding.  It has a 5.7l petrol inboard engine.

I have been told that I should winterise her but short of emptying the water tanks and taking out the batteries, what other things should I be doing?

[Clanad]

Be sure to add a stabilizing product (here in the U.S.,one is called Sta-Bil) to gas tank and run it for a few minutes to get the product into the carburetor.  Or, alternately, drain the gas tank and carburetor thoroughly.  It tends, over the winter, to cause deposits and varnish to form.  This is also a good time to take a good look at your propeller to inspect for cracks and nicks...

[BoaterKeith]

If she has been used in salt water run fresh water through her and then check the antifreeze levels. Vaceline electrical points. Fuel tanks should be topped up to avoid condensation collecting in them. Try to find a way of venting the craft or she will grow mouldy. Take your propellor off to avoid theft. Use the opportunity to polish the propellor up. Grease the shaft and rudder stock to push out water. Clean the interior fibreglass and metal with dettol to avoid mould and to keep her smelling great. Sterilise the toilet and try to empty it of water in the traps. If you use butane take it off the boat to avoid it freezing.