Ahoy!

 

No matter what size the ship, in northern states, boats need protection while they hibernate.

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Today, shrink wrapping is the most popular method of boat storage, providing a range of advantages over loose canvas. 

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Wrapping is done by covering the boat with plastic sheets made of thick and durable vinyl that can handle all weather and temperature conditions. Once covered, it is "shrink fitted" by being blasted with a heat gun that shrinks it to the ship's contours.

 

So covered, the boat is protected from winter storms, driving rain, blowing dirt, and other contaminants without having to be expensively housed in a garage. It also provides insulation from extreme temperatures and UV rays. Equally important is it keeps critters, such as cats, rodents, birds, snakes, and insects from entering the boat—something that cannot be guaranteed when using loose canvas or no covering at all.

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Pictured here is the Tarnhelm's hybehibernation cycle, from December 2022 when it was covered, to March 2023, when Phil cut a door into the plastic so he could get it ready for the cruising season.