As the colder months approach and boats come out of the water for the winter season, it’s the perfect opportunity to tackle those maintenance jobs and upgrade your interior, ready for the start of next year’s boating season.
Comfort, style and durability all matter when you’re afloat for long periods and your boat should feel like a true home away from home if you are staying put for the winter.
In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to give your boat a winter makeover, including upholstery updates, new carpets, mattress and bedding upgrades, anti-condensation solutions, and other interior improvements that can make a big difference.
Why winter is the ideal time for refit jobs
When your boat is out of the water, you have better access to all areas and fewer disruptions to your sailing plans, making it the perfect time to focus on interior upgrades.
Winter brings its own challenges, such as cold temperatures, damp conditions and reduced ventilation. If you plan to live aboard over the colder months, comfortable and well-designed interiors will make daily life far more enjoyable.
A well-considered refit doesn’t just enhance comfort, it also adds value and extends the life of your boat’s interior. Whether it’s replacing worn upholstery or improving insulation with the right soft furnishings, investing time now ensures your vessel is in top condition when the new season begins.
Upholstery refresh & carpets
Upholstery inevitably shows signs of wear over time. Faded colours, sagging cushions and general wear and tear are all indicators that it’s time to consider a refresh. High-quality marine upholstery is designed to withstand life at sea, so choosing the right fabric is essential to ensure your investment lasts.
When selecting materials, look for fabrics that are stain-resistant, UV-stable, and resistant to mould and mildew. These qualities help maintain a fresh, clean and durable finish that performs well in the challenging marine environment.
Carpets also benefit from attention during winter refits. Replacing or deep cleaning them can revitalise your cabin, improve comfort underfoot and maintain important qualities such as anti-slip properties and moisture resistance.
At Ship Shape Bedding, we specialise in custom marine upholstery, offering luxury saloon and interior cushions for yachts, motorboats and canal boats. Our boat carpet and upholstery solutions are built to combine comfort, durability and style, creating a long-lasting, practical upgrade that elevates your interior.
Mattress & bedding upgrades
If your boat mattress is showing signs of age, such as sagging or loss of support, winter is the perfect time to replace it. Many boat mattresses feature unique shapes, including Island or V-berths, which require made-to-measure solutions to ensure proper fit and support. Using a mattress that doesn’t fit correctly can lead to poor sleep quality, discomfort and even damage to the mattress over time.
At Ship Shape Bedding, we can create mattresses and bedding tailored to any berth shape or size, ensuring a snug fit and restful night’s sleep. Our range includes fitted boat bedding such as the Quarter Berth Bedding and V-Berth Bedding along with many more options available.
Practical tips for bedding & interior for winter conditions
Condensation is one of the biggest challenges for boat owners during winter. When warm air meets a cold surface, such as the underside of your mattress, moisture forms and can become trapped. Over time, this trapped moisture can cause mould, mildew and unpleasant odours.
An anti-condensation underlay, such as our DRY-Mat®, provides an effective solution by creating a breathable layer that allows air to circulate, keeping your mattress dry and protected. This is especially important if you’re living aboard over winter or storing your boat for an extended period.
When it comes to bedding, choosing the right tog rating is equally important for a comfortable night’s sleep. We recommend switching to a 10.5 tog duvet during the colder months or combining your summer and winter duvets in one cover for extra warmth.
Finally, make sure your bedding is made to fit your mattress perfectly. Made-to-measure bedding helps prevent draughts, stops fabric from bunching and ensures a neat, comfortable finish.
Before putting your boat into storage, thoroughly clean and dry all surfaces, remove perishable items, and make sure the cabin is well-ventilated. Opening hatches and using a dehumidifier can help prevent dampness and protect your freshly refurbished interior.
Style & finishing touches
While practical upgrades are essential, refit season is also a chance to add personality and style to your space. Refreshing fabrics, updating colour schemes and coordinating upholstery and bedding can completely transform the feel of your cabin.
A thoughtfully designed interior not only makes your boat more enjoyable to spend time in but also gives it a renewed sense of energy and comfort ready for the next season.
Choosing the right supplier
When selecting a supplier for your boat upholstery, bedding or winter refit materials, look for marine-grade fabrics, precise templating and proven craftsmanship. Quality materials and attention to detail make all the difference in achieving a professional finish that stands up to life at sea.
At Ship Shape Bedding, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and expertise. All our products are made using marine-grade certified materials, designed and crafted to meet the demands of marine life. With rapid lead times and worldwide delivery, we make it simple to get your boat winter-ready, wherever you are.
A winter refit isn’t just about maintenance; it’s about enhancing your comfort and enjoyment on board. Taking the time now to refresh your interior will ensure your boat is ready to go when spring arrives.
Explore our full range of made-to-measure mattresses, shaped bedding, anti-condensation underlays and marine upholstery to get your boat winter-ready. If you’d like expert advice, give our friendly team a call on +44 3704 464233 or get in touch via our live chat or contact form. We’re always happy to help.
