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SPRING 2026

Launching the Boat in Spring

Inspection, mechanical checks, and starting: a complete guide to waking up your vessel after the Quebec winter.

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After 5 to 6 months of wintering, your boat needs a rigorous return to service. A hasty launch is the first cause of breakdowns at the beginning of the season.

Complete Visual Inspection

Hull (cracks, bubbles), davits, rudder, propeller. Check for rodents in the engine compartment (rats, squirrels — common in outdoor sheds).

Mechanical Checks

Oil and coolant levels, condition of spark plugs, belts, hoses, battery (charge + lug). Initial start with ear motor or tray before the first outing.

Safety Equipment Testing

Life jackets (one per person, appropriate size), fire extinguisher (check pressure), horn or whistle, distress flares (expiry date), first aid kit.

First Outing: Precautions

Familiar body of water, calm conditions, experienced crew. Avoid long journeys the first time. Bring a charged phone and let a loved one know you’re leaving.

Insurance Update

Was your policy renewed during the winter? Have you made any modifications (new engine, equipment, value)? Update with your broker before the first release.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I launch my boat?
When the ice has completely disappeared from your body of water, usually at the end of April (Mauricie, Estrie) to mid-May (Saguenay, Côte-Nord).
Do I have to redo the antifouling every year?
If you leave the boat in the water all season, yes. If you take it out after each use, every 2 to 3 years is enough.
The engine won’t start: what should I do?
Common causes: dead battery, stale gasoline, damp candles. Check these 3 points before calling a technician.
How much does a professional launch cost?
$150 to $400 depending on marina and size. Usually includes removal in the water, initial mooring and an engine test.
Does my boat need an annual overhaul?
Recommended for inboard engines. Outboard: every 2 years or 100 hours of use.
Does the insurance cover a problem at launch?
If it’s a covered defect (collision, accidental damage), yes. Mechanical breakdown due to poor wintering is generally not covered.

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