Spare Parts to Keep Onboard

Spare Parts to Keep Onboard: Staying Self-Reliant During Winter Cruising Season

Winter boating in British Columbia can be incredibly rewarding — quiet anchorages, crisp air, and stunning coastal scenery from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. But with the colder months comes a greater need for self-reliance on the water. While most boaters are diligent about food, fuel, and clothing provisions, spare parts are often overlooked — until something fails at the worst possible time.

When you’re cruising along the Gulf Islands or exploring Desolation Sound and a small component like a drive belt or impeller breaks, waiting days for delivery can derail your plans. The best way to stay prepared is to build a comprehensive onboard spare parts inventory before setting out on your winter adventures.

Assess and Organize Your Spares

Before heading out for fall or winter boating, take time to assess what you already have on board. Review your vessel’s Owner’s Manual for manufacturer-recommended maintenance parts, and make a list that includes the item name, part number, quantity, and storage location.

Consider the type of cruising you’ll be doing — coastal, offshore, or local weekend runs. If you anticipate oil or filter changes along the way, carry the necessary fluids and replacement parts. For longer trips or remote destinations where marine supply stores may be limited, pack critical and proprietary components specific to your boat’s brand and systems.

Critical Spares to Carry

Every boat should have a core selection of parts to handle unexpected failures. A good starter list includes:

• Engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and hydraulic fluid

• Primary and secondary fuel filters, and oil filters for engines and generators

• Impellers for both main engines and generators

• Hoses, clamps, belts, and assorted fittings

• Alternator, fuel pump, and injectors

• Hydraulic fittings, plugs, screws, bolts, and nuts

• Spare light bulbs for navigation, cabin, and deck lighting

• Freshwater, washdown, and raw-water pumps

• Head repair kits and spare seals

The more complex your vessel, the longer your spares list should be — particularly if you’re running twin engines or advanced onboard systems.

Don’t Forget the Tools

Having the parts is one thing; being able to install them is another. A well-stocked tool kit should include:

• A full set of wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and wire cutters

• Allen and torque wrenches

• Duct tape, electrical tape, and zip ties

• Filter wrenches, impeller pullers, and any brand-specific tools

• Plumbing essentials like pipe wrenches, Teflon tape, and spare fittings

The Value of Preparedness

There’s a special satisfaction that comes from diagnosing and fixing a problem on your own — especially when the part you need is already on board. Beyond convenience, a solid spares inventory adds resale value when it’s time to sell your boat.

As you prepare for the winter cruising season in British Columbia, take the time to organize your spares, restock essentials, and make sure your tool kit is complete. Whether you’re exploring Vancouver’s harbour, crossing to Vancouver Island, or venturing north along the Sunshine Coast, a well-prepared boat keeps your adventures uninterrupted and your mind at ease.