Repeat the process multiple times during the season to maintain optimal protection against UV rays and the elements.
Take care of your boat
Essential tips for transport, storage and maintenance
Storage and Maintenance
To ensure your boat accompanies you on all your adventures for years to come, we recommend applying a quality 303-type protective wax to the entire surface.
Transport of your boat
When transporting your canoe or kayak, be careful not to damage or warp the hull.
A quality roof rack system allows you to safely and confidently transport your watercraft on top of your vehicle.
- To avoid loss or damage, remove all accessories from your watercraft before transport.
- For your safety and to avoid unnecessary scratches on your car, always load your watercraft onto the roof with two people.
- Use straps or ropes to secure the midsection to the roof rack, without overtightening.
- Tie each end of the watercraft to the front and rear bumpers of the vehicle.
DO NOT FORGET THAT YOUR BOAT IS ATTACHED TO THE ROOF OF YOUR CAR. Never attempt to enter a garage with the boat still attached!
Storing Your Watercraft
The best places to hang your boat are the top of a garage or the underside of a deck.
Hanging storage
- Use a harness system or 2'' wide nylon straps.
- Attach the canoe upside down and place the straps around the hull to distribute the weight across the gunwales.
- Ideally, use three support points: bow, stern, and center.
Trestle storage
- Use trestles with a non-rigid support surface.
- Secure your boat with straps, but don't overtighten.
- Trestles come in different shapes: H, X, Y, or L.
Winter storage
- Store it in a sheltered location, protected from snow accumulation and UV rays.
- Clean and inspect before storing.
- Avoid placing it too close to the ground to limit animal risks.
Do not lift the canoe by its carrying handles. They are not designed to support this type of load.
Always store your canoe upside down. This simple precaution extends its lifespan and prevents deformation.
Downloadable cheat sheets
Download our practical guides to prepare for your next outing.