Is $0 to install a tarp with water bags winter cover a fair price?

My backyard build recently finished. My fibreglass pool is 15.5x40' and has an autocover, which I don't plan to use for the winter. I intend to keep the pool open until late in the year (November/December) and open it early (March/April). I have outdoor porcelain tile (Porcea) around the pool, and the pool company warned that they cannot guarantee against chipping these tiles if they drill holes for a safety cover. I have a very small dog that I carry, and no children. I plan to use my backyard in the winter, as I have a hot tub, sauna, and firepit. For aesthetic reasons, I want the pool area to look good during winter, as my kitchen faces it with large windows. I am currently leaning towards not covering the pool at all.