Cold Weather Boating Q&A: Your Guide to Safe and Enjoyable Winter Boating

Winter doesn’t have to mean the end of your boating adventures. For many, cold weather boating is a passion and a lifestyle. If you're ready to hit the water this winter, here are answers to some common cold weather boating questions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Q: How Cold is Too Cold to Boat?

A: Cold water is typically defined as 70 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Prolonged exposure to cold air and water can lead to hypothermia, as the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, according to the Boat U.S. Foundation. Alongside hypothermia, cold shock and physical incapacitation are real dangers. Cold shock can impair cognitive function, cause suffocation, lead to cardiac arrest, or even result in stroke.

When boating in cold water, it’s crucial to dress warmly and wear a personal flotation device (PFD). The Center for Cold Water Safety recommends wearing thermal protection, such as a wetsuit or dry suit. Remember, body heat is lost four times faster in cold water than in cold air, according to the National Weather Service. For added safety, SpinSheet advises that if the combined air and water temperatures are 120°F or less, lifejackets are a must and thermal protection is highly recommended.

Q: Will My Boat’s Motor Freeze in Cold Weather?

A: Boat motors are designed to function in freezing temperatures, but certain components of outboard motors can freeze if there is water left in the lines or if the engine is tilted when not in use. It's critical not to tilt outboard engines out of the water during cold weather to prevent freezing. U.S. Boatworks suggests keeping an eye on the motor for any signs of freezing, both during and after operation. When starting your boat in cold water, allow the motor to run long enough to warm up properly before leaving your mooring.

Q: What Gear is Essential for Cold Weather Boating?

A: Cold weather boating requires specialized gear to ensure both safety and comfort. Start by ensuring that there are PFDs for everyone on board. Not only do flotation devices enhance personal safety, but they also provide extra warmth in cold weather.

Dress in layers, much like you would for an extreme winter sport. Base layers, thermal socks, mid-layers, and durable outerwear—like waterproof jackets, hats, gloves, and boots—are essential. According to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, investing in a flotation jacket, immersion or survival suit, and dry suit is highly recommended. Additionally, make sure to have safety equipment on board, such as beacons, personal emergency locator lights, whistles, and flares.

For a reliable source of cold-weather gear, check out Mustang Survival, a retailer specializing in cold water outerwear.

Have more cold weather boating questions? We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below, and don’t forget to check out more cold-weather boating tips on our blog. As always, keep your boat in peak condition with regular maintenance and high-quality products from Palmer Power's service team.