The anchorages of the Tuscan archipelago grow quiet in October, signalling the end of the summer charter season. As yacht fleets head into dry docks or winter berths along the Tyrrhenian coast, the focus turns to closing down the vessel for the colder months. A key task for the deck crew is winterising yacht SUP boards, platforms and other inflatables. Paddle boards and drop-stitch craft require systematic freshwater washing, valve inspection and dry stowage to prevent mildew and seam degradation over the winter.
Dockee inflatable products are designed for the marine environment and need little maintenance, but a proper layup routine is essential. From the compact boards to large floating platforms, taking care of the equipment now means it will unroll next spring exactly the way you left it. Follow this routine to prepare your inflatables for Mediterranean yacht winterisation.
- Bring the boards and platforms ashore or onto the aft deck, laying them out on a clean surface free of sharp objects.
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after contact with salt water to remove all traces of brine.
- Clean fabrics with a mild soap solution, paying attention to the waterline where dirt collects.
- Wash the top surfaces gently to maintain their appearance and remove sun cream residue.
- Let the product air-dry completely; moisture left in the folds will encourage mildew.
- Open the valve to deflate the board, pressing it flat to push out all the air.
- Fold the deflated board loosely, avoiding tight bends or sharp creases.
- Pack the items in their original covers and store them dry, out of prolonged direct sunlight.
Cleaning Inflatable SUPs and Removing Salt Water
After a busy season navigating the Amalfi Coast or the Aeolian Islands, sea water leaves heavy salt deposits on your water toys. Rinsing your equipment thoroughly with fresh water is the primary step in cleaning inflatable SUPs of salt water. Clean the fabrics with a mild soap solution to lift away the dirt and grime that accumulates during daily use. Give the teak-look surface a regular, gentle clean to keep its appearance. This top layer has a teak look only, not real wood, and needs no oiling or sanding.
The main body of these inflatables, such as the Luna 10’6” SUP Paddle Board, is built from drop-stitch fabric with reinforced PVC. Platforms and pools use 0.9 mm PVC combined with the drop-stitch material. These materials are chosen to be UV- and saltwater-resistant, spending long hours in direct sun and sea water during the summer. Washing them down properly at the end of the year removes the salt crystals that can trap moisture against the fabric.
Drop-Stitch Paddle Board Layup and Deflation
Before you fold the boards, they must be completely dry. Mildew thrives in dark, damp lockers, so making sure the product is completely dry before you deflate and pack it is vital for a successful drop-stitch paddle board layup. Open the valve to release the air, pressing the board flat. Let the air escape naturally as you apply gentle pressure from one end to the other.
Once flat, fold the board carefully. Avoid sharp creases that could strain the internal threads or the reinforced PVC layer over the winter months. Proper folding ensures the board will be ready to inflate to a firm and rigid surface again next season with your compact Air Pump 500W or the more powerful Air Pump 1200W.
Managing Valves and Connectors
Valves and connection points require a brief inspection before the long winter break. The valve must be closed for inflation and capped afterwards so that the product holds its pressure, but for winter storage, ensure the area around the valve is free of sand. Wipe down the connection loops and integrated straps used with the AirLink Tube to prevent grit from wearing down the webbing.
If your yacht uses a floating jet ski dock or a toy dock, review the divided arms and mooring points for any lingering salt. By inspecting these connection points now, the crew can confidently stow the equipment. Review your SUP boards and other inflatables to ensure no small parts are misplaced during the pack-down.
Inflatable Water Toy Winter Storage
Proper inflatable water toy winter storage means keeping the gear in a stable, dry environment. When not in use, store inflatables and covers dry and out of prolonged direct sunlight. A dedicated dry locker aboard the yacht or a temperature-controlled unit ashore in Liguria will keep the materials in excellent condition. Keep the stored bags away from sharp objects, heavy machinery and accidental spills.
Dockee products carry a two-year manufacturer warranty from delivery against defects in materials and workmanship, and proper winter care helps maintain that standard. If the yacht requires a new configuration for the spring, replacements or tailor-made options can be arranged with an individual quote for each project. Standard returns are accepted within 14 days of delivery for unused items in their original packaging, though tailor-made items are excluded. Worldwide and fully insured shipping ensures your new gear arrives safely at the marina before the next cruising season begins.
