09/04/2026
Haul-outs move fast. A solid plan keeps your boat safe and the yard on schedule. Here’s a concise, do-right-the-first-time checklist for sportfish, trawlers, and cruisers:
1) Sling placement notes: Mark factory lift points and clearance zones. Flag no-sling areas like shafts, struts, trim tabs, pods, stabilizer fins, and transducers. Note keel type and balance. Print a simple diagram and hand it to the lift operator.
2) Thru-hull tagging: Tag every seacock open/closed. Color-code by system (raw water, head, air con, generators). Photograph tags and valves for your records and the service writer.
3) Battery shut-down plan: Decide what stays powered (bilge pumps, alarms, float switches) and what comes off. Label battery switches, breakers, and chargers. Note shore power status and where DC loads are isolated.
4) Gear secured and clearance check: Stow outriggers, antennas, hardtop gear, and loose deck items. Confirm bridge clearance and total height for the travel lift. Remove or guard prop flags and protect transducers.
5) Fluids and weight: Record current fuel and water levels to anticipate sling balance. Capture engine hours and any leak points you want inspected once she’s blocked.
6) Who to brief at the yard: Have a 5-minute huddle with the lift operator, yard manager, and service writer. Hand over your sling diagram, valve tags list, battery plan, and contact info. If you’re not present, designate a captain or trusted crew to sign off.
Save this checklist, share it with your yard, and head into haul-out day confident and prepared.