Hello from New Hampshire

[campbellonh]

We are very new to sailing. We learned how last summer, and bought a small sailboat this summer. We've only been out a few times. We have been kayaking for years, so we really enjoy being on the water. Sailing brings a completely new way to enjoy it. I was really glad to find this forum, because having ability to share stories, and get or give advice is a very good thing.

Now we are trying to figure out the best way to protect it this winter before the snow flies. We do not have a garage.

[jdoe71]

Welcome to the forum. Lots of info here.

About 30 years ago (!!) I built a 14' Spindrift dinghy from a kit. In winter, I put the mast on two X braces made of 2X4's placed at bow and stern that put the mast about 3' above deck and then threw a tarp over the whole thing. The mast made it into a nice tent like structure that with a bit of breeze shaking the tarp now and then would shed snow nicely. Make sure there's no standing water in the bilges, freezing could cause damage depending on what's in the bilge.

[hugosalt]

Welcome! Few additional ideas...PVC frame with tarp...
also used to buy, at end of season, those inflatable bladders
that were used in swimming pools in winter...and throw a tarp
on top...don't know if still sold. As mentioned above ice
can really be problem, check throughout winter, if can't drain/pump leave some antifreeze in bilge.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha and Welcome aboard!
Can't help with the snow ideas but a good tarp on a fram can protect your boat pretty well.
regards,

[Ashoreschool]

Welcome Aboard.
Now that your settled in for the winter, love to hear more about the lessons you learned the hard way!