Ah, winter in the Great Lakes—a time for snow-covered shorelines, cozy nights by the fire, and… dreaming of your next boating adventure. While your boat might be in storage and the lakes are frozen, this is the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and ensure your vessel (and your plans) are ready for spring. For those of you escaping south to warmer waters, we’ve got tips for you too.
And remember, at JBYS, our team is here year-round to help make it all happen.
1. The Winter Maintenance Checklist You Shouldn’t Skip
Winter is the perfect opportunity to give your boat the TLC it deserves, and our expert service team is ready to assist. With fewer demands on your time, you can ensure everything’s in top shape for when the ice thaws.
Inspect & Repair: Schedule a professional inspection to address any wear and tear from last season. Focus on your engine, hull, and electronics.
Update Features: Thinking about adding a new navigation system or upgrading your interior? Now’s the time to order and install parts while shops are less busy.
Restock Essentials: From safety gear to your first-aid kit, winter is a great time to refresh your supplies.
2. Start Spring Prep Now: Why It’s Key
Spring might feel far away, but boaters know the season sneaks up fast. Here’s what you can do now, with a little help from JBYS, to ensure smooth sailing later:
Book Early: Whether it’s securing marina slips or scheduling spring maintenance, getting ahead of the rush will save you time and stress.
Inspect Storage: Peek in on your boat to ensure it’s winterizing properly and hasn’t sustained damage.
Set Goals: Plan your destinations for the season—whether it’s a Great Lakes loop or exploring new waters down south.
Bonus Tip: If you’re considering a new boat, don’t forget that winter is one of the best times to buy. Check out our Benefits to buying in winter blog to see why.
3. For Our Snowbirds: The Best of Both Worlds
For those of you lucky enough to escape to warmer waters during winter, your boating season doesn’t have to pause. Use this time to enjoy the southern lifestyle while preparing for your Great Lakes adventures:
Try Before You Buy: Heading south? Stop by our Naples, FL location to check out our incredible inventory and test the waters (literally) while you’re there.
Stay Connected: Our team can guide you on how to make the most of your time on the water, wherever you are, while keeping your Great Lakes plans in mind.
4. Take Advantage of Winter Events and Promotions
Winter boat shows and expos are perfect for finding inspiration, learning about new technology, and connecting with our sales team to explore your options. They’re also perfect for getting all the details on special promotions. We’ll be at major shows like the Detroit, Cleveland, and Naples Boat Shows, so don’t hesitate to visit us and start the conversation about your next boat.
If you’re ready to check “buy a new boat” off your winter to-do list, don’t forget to browse our latest inventory or stop by one of our locations for a chat. Let’s make this winter productive and your spring unforgettable.
Why Choose JBYS?
JBYS has you covered from the Great Lakes to the Gulf and our commitment to your boating lifestyle doesn’t take a winter break. Our sales team works year-round to connect you with your dream boat, while our service team ensures everything is in top condition. Whether you’re upgrading your vessel, preparing for spring, or dreaming of your next adventure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
With 7 Great Lakes locations and a winter hub in Naples, FL, we’re uniquely positioned to meet your needs—wherever the water takes you.
Our full-service locations:
- St. Clair Shores, MI (Headquarters)
- Charlevoix, MI
- Holland, MI
- Grand Haven, MI
- Spring Lake, MI
- Chicago, IL
- Marblehead, OH
- Naples, FL
Ready to explore your options? Contact us today and let’s find your dream boat!
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