Winterize Your Boat

Unfortunately, the boating season is winding down in many parts of the country and it is time to start thinking about protecting your valuable recreational asset. Winterizing a boat reminds me of the old commercial that says "pay me now or pay me later." The time and effort you spend now will have a definite effect on your boat's performance, or lack of it, and certainly save you time, effort and money come spring. You should remember that your insurance policy may not cover damage done by lack of maintenance or neglect.

The best place for your boat to be during the winter is out of the water, under cover, in a climate-controlled boat storage area. This, however, can be expensive. If don't have this option perhaps you should consider shrink-wrapping your boat. This, too, is a little expensive but provides a very protective cover. Short of these two items, make sure that your boat is well covered with a tarp or some other sturdy cover.

Your first step in winterizing should be to make a checklist of all items that need to be accomplished. Check the owner's manual of your boat and motor(s) for manufacturer's recommendations on winterization. If you are a new boat owner, perhaps you should employ the assistance of a friend with experience in winterizing or hire a professional to do the job. The following is a generic outline of areas which should be of concern to you, however, there are many resources on the Internet with more detailed and specific information.

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Hunter Announces New 39 for 2010 Model Year

Company officials today announced the launching of their newest model, the Hunter 39. This new boat replaces the highly successful Hunter 38 retaining some of the boats most positive interior characteristics and marking major improvements in several key areas suggested by dealers and customers.

John Peterson, Hunter’s Director of Sales & Marketing said, “Our main goal was to build on our previous success by creating a more striking appearance and a better cockpit with dual helm stations. We also wanted to incorporate some exciting advancements in interiorappointments.” Peterson added, “The deck profile and hull shape represent a new direction for the company. The extended hull improves sailing performance and contributes to the sleeker look we’ve been developing.”

The new Hunter 39 hull is 25 inches longer than the previous model providing a longer
waterline and more spacious swim platform that improves boarding access from a dinghy. On deck, the new twin wheel configuration provides the helmsperson with the ultimate in comfort, control and visibility for every point of sail. Transom access from the cockpit is improved with a wide, unobstructed walkway between the wheels.

The centerpiece of the cockpit is a versatile table with features that enhance comfort and utility. It serves well as both a hand hold and foot brace but also contains drink holders and a deep storage bin. Fold out leaves expand serving capacity for mealtime gatherings. The compass is mounted at the aft end above a pivoting chart plotter bracket that holds an optional Raymarine E-Series MFD.

Other on-deck highlights include:
• Flush mounted deck hatches.
• Doubled Ended Mainsheet. Introduced previously on larger models, this new feature allows adjustment from either the cabin top or port helm station.
• Stainless Steel Traveler Arch. Provides the leverage of end-boom sheeting without the cockpit clutter.
• B & R rig by Selden. The B & R design with fractional sailplan is reliable, stable and easer to handle than conventional masthead rigs. Selden’s fanatical attention to detail ensures long term performance unmatched by any spar manufacturer.

Construction is the same modular method used on other Hunter models. The hull is balsa sandwich above the waterline with solid FRP below the waterline and two layers of Kevlar in the forward sections for extra impact resistance. The structural grid / pan is hand laminated in a single piece and fused to the hull with the interior components preassembled in place. The plywood cored deck is matched to the hull using an outward flange joint sealed with 3M 5200 and mechanically fastened with both screws and bolts.

Below decks, this new model retains the very popular (two stateroom / one head) layout of the
Hunter 38, however some new enhancements have been added to improve the function and
appearance.

• A new faux granite galley countertop material adds dramatic flair to the interior and is accented by a stout stainless steel keeper rail around the edges that functions well as a sturdy handhold.
• The cherry laminate woodwork is complimented by new beveled laminate flooring for a richer feel.
• Larger fixed deck ports in the salon and galley add volumes of natural light.
• The nav station has been redesigned to accommodate a cleaner chart plotter installation and more open table space.
• The head has new solid surface materials in the vanity counter and floor to improve the appearance and reduce maintenance.

The boat will be officially introduced to the public at the US Sailboat Show in Annapolis, October 8-12.