barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

[jerryb1]

I have a 31 ft dual prop inboard. It wasnt used since June, but when I took it for a ride yesterday, top speed was 8 knots(instead of usual 25). The props and drive are loaded with barnacles. It has to be pulled out and cleaned of course.
The problem is the marina where its at doesnt have a lift. The boat is in a creek off the Chesapeake. My question is should I try to get it out now(late Nov.) or wait until the spring? The boat was bottom painted with two coats 2 years ago.

 

[CaptainKickback]

Re: barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

I don't know what your winter water temperature will be there, but here in Florida, we have barnicle growth year round. I would think your problem is only going to get worse.

 

[Beefer]

Re: barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

Although I don't think additional growth is going to be a problem because the temps should get low enough, why wait? If you do it in the spring, that will only cut into your boating time. If you do it now, you'll be ready to go come springtime.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

Now. you might not add new ones but your old ones will grow into whoppers. Other marine growth will attach, too.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

There will be minimal growth of barnacles over the winter. It therefore doesn't matter. Make sure the boat doesn't freeze if you leave it in. Also, remove the barnacles immediately upon pulling the boat. They harden into concrete if left to dry.

 

[jerryb1]

Re: barnacles-Should I remove boat for winter?

Thanks guys.-Will probably pull it out. The marina where its at is paid for but doesnt have a lift to pull a 12K lb boat. The larger marina needs to be paid for winter storage, but thats probably the best route.
Everyone's suggestions make sense.