Do Wooden Boats Need to Be Kept in the Water? A Simple Guide

Wooden boats are timeless, beautiful vessels that many boat enthusiasts cherish for their craftsmanship and history. However, owning and maintaining a wooden boat comes with a unique set of challenges, one of which is understanding how to care for the wood to ensure the boat’s longevity. One common question that arises is whether wooden boats need to be kept in the water. The short answer is yes, but there’s a bit more to it than just keeping your boat afloat.

Why Do Wooden Boats Need Water?

Wood naturally expands when exposed to moisture. This expansion causes the wooden planks on your boat’s hull to swell, closing any small gaps between them and creating a watertight seal. This process is often referred to as the wood “taking up.” When wooden boats are left out of the water for extended periods, the wood dries out, shrinks, and can develop cracks, leaving the boat more prone to leaks when it’s put back into the water.

By regularly keeping your wooden boat in the water or soaking it before use, you allow the wood to maintain its proper size and shape, ensuring a tighter seal and better performance.

What Happens If You Leave a Wooden Boat Out of Water?

If a wooden boat is left out of the water for too long, several things can happen:

• Wood Shrinkage: Without moisture, the wood will shrink, which can cause gaps between the planks.
• Leaking: Once you put the boat back in the water, it may take time for the wood to expand enough to seal those gaps, leading to leaks.
• Damage and Rot: Over time, dry wood can become brittle and more prone to cracking. Additionally, if not stored properly, the boat can develop dry rot, which weakens the wood and can lead to significant damage.

How to Care for a Wooden Boat Out of Water

If you need to store your wooden boat on land, there are a few steps you can take to protect it:

1. Moisten the Hull: Regularly dampen the wood to prevent it from drying out completely. Some owners use wet towels or a water hose to keep the hull moist.
2. Use a Humid Environment: If possible, store your boat in a climate-controlled space where the humidity level helps prevent shrinkage.
3. Apply Protective Coatings: Marine varnish, oil, or epoxy can help seal the wood and protect it from moisture loss and damage.
4. Winterize Your Boat: In colder climates, ensure the boat is properly winterized to avoid damage from freezing water and ice.

Preventing Rot and Damage

When your wooden boat is in the water for long periods, it’s important to protect it from marine growth, such as barnacles and algae. Applying antifouling paint to the hull can help keep the bottom of your boat free from these organisms. Additionally, always ensure that your boat’s bilge pump is working properly to remove any water that enters the hull, especially if your boat is docked or moored for an extended time.

Final Thoughts

While wooden boats don’t always need to be in the water, regular exposure to moisture is critical for keeping the wood in good condition. Whether you’re actively sailing or storing your boat, understanding how water interacts with the wood will help you maintain your vessel for many years to come.

By following these simple tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can keep your wooden boat in great shape—whether it’s on the water or stored on land.