As one of North America's biggest inflatable boat dealerships, we know a thing or two about inflatable boats! We make sure to offer our customers the best in inflatable brands, boats built to last even in the most extreme environments.

Best-selling brands, like Zodiac Nautic and AB Inflatables, have continuously produced vessels that when properly maintained, have been known to last decades.

Zodiac boats are built to endure all types of weather and are often used for expeditions such as whale watching off the coast of Maui or as research vessels in the harsh climates of the south pole. These boats, made iconic by the great Jacque Cousteau and his undersea expeditions, are known for their durability and buoyancy and are commonly used by the US Military.

Manufactured in the tropical climate of Colombia, AB Inflatables are highly recognized for their use by the Italian Coast Guard. AB Inflatables has continued redefining the rigid inflatable boat market through its constant search for innovation, building each rigid inflatable boat with exceptional standards that can withstand various weather conditions worldwide.

There is a reason why the military and search and rescue groups around the globe choose rigid inflatable boats. However, as exciting as that is, the average boater uses their inflatable for personal recreational use on lakes and oceans closer to home. Many boaters are seasonal, and now that fall is upon us, they hang up their captain's hat and head indoors for the chillier months.

Boat owners often don't realize that getting their inflatable ready for winter conditions is critical to protect their boat's longevity. This time of year is the perfect opportunity to give your boat a little extra attention so it'll be ready to go when the weather gets nice again. With a bit of thoughtful preparation, you can make your inflatable RIB or dinghy last a lifetime!

For those with the space, storing your boat fully inflated and indoors or properly covered is one of the best ways to preserve your investment. While keeping the boat inflated is highly recommended, there are ways to store a deflated boat if keeping it inflated is not an option. We will review these options and more, but let us start with some essential tips with proven results.

• Get Your Boat Ready For Storage. Remove items like fishing rods and tackle, safety equipment, sunscreen, oars, and other things that would be better stored out of the cold. Detach all removable electronics. Go through every nook and cranny of your boat to make sure there are no items that could potentially damage your boat if left behind while being stored. Many liquids can expand during the cold, explode, and cause a mess on board, resulting in minor fractures in your boat's exterior that can eventually threaten your boat's usability over time.

• Check Your Boat For Any Damage. While the boat is fully inflated, go over every inch of your boat and keep an eye out for any weak seams, leaks, or damaged parts and accessories. Do any necessary maintenance work before you put your boat away for the winter. Keep in mind, the best marine mechanics book up fast, especially in the spring. Taking your boat in for service during the off season can save you time and headaches when the boating season begins. If your boat has a motor, please refer to your owner's manual for properly winterizing your engine.

• Thoroughly Clean Your Boat. Thoroughly cleaning your vessel is one of the best ways to increase the longevity of your inflatable boat during the storage process. Use a cleaner that gets the grime and deep dirt off the tubes. Cleaners like Seapower Inflatable Boat Cleaner and Preserver are a great way to get your boat looking brand new. It will even remove surface oxidation, tar, and greasy dirt. Seapower and similar cleaners can restore and recondition tubes so that when you get your boat back out in the spring, it is as good as the day you bought it. Removing biological debris is especially important as any living organisms can build up even in the cold, causing unwanted odors and attracting small pests that could cause further damage. Don't forget to empty and clean any additional compartments to prevent rust, corrosion, and mold.

• Cover and Store. We highly recommend storing your inflatable in a garage, storage unit, or underneath a covered canopy. Avoid storing your boat in a metal shed as the metal can exacerbate already harsh temperatures in colder regions. Keep your boat inflated when possible. The tubing on an inflatable boat is stronger when it is inflated and will be more resistant to tears and punctures. Purchase a boat cover that properly fits your vessel. Boat covers are essential for both indoor and outdoor storage and should be checked regularly throughout the winter to make sure they have not loosened or blown off. If you are storing your inflatable outdoors, make sure your boat cover is UV protected. We recommend boat covers made from water-resistant Marine Grade Polyester that can safeguard against mildew and UV rays.

If you decide to deflate your boat during the winter, we recommend first taking all the same steps above prior to deflation. Many smaller inflatables may come with a storage bag. After thoroughly cleaning your boat and making sure it is dry, you can keep it protected in the storage bag. It is best to store your boat on a shelf away from the floor or walls where rodents may decide your boat is a great winter vacation home. Do not use heaters or heat bulbs near your boat as this will only make it more enticing for mold and pests.

Remember, inflatable boats from tried-and-true brands can and will last for years when treated properly. By following these steps you can help ensure your boat is ready to hit the water come spring for many seasons to come!