Essential Tips to Protect Your Boat During Hurricane Season

Protecting your boat during hurricane season requires careful planning and execution of best practices to ensure its safety and minimize damage. Here are some detailed steps to help safeguard your personal watercraft:

Develop a Hurricane Plan

• Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates and warnings from reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center.
• Designate a Safe Location: Decide in advance where your boat will be stored during a hurricane—whether it’s on land, in a marina, or at a designated hurricane storage facility.

Secure Storage Location

• On Land: If possible, move your boat to a dry, inland location. Storing your boat on high ground away from potential flood zones can provide the best protection.
• Use Boat Stands: Place the boat on a trailer or boat stands. Secure it with heavy-duty straps to anchor points in the ground.
• Remove and Store: Take off any removable items (e.g., electronics, sails, Bimini tops) and store them safely.
• In-Water Storage: If your boat must stay in the water, ensure it’s in a secure marina or harbor.
• Double Up Lines: Use extra mooring lines, doubling them up for added security. Ensure they are long enough to account for storm surge and tidal changes.
• Chafe Protection: Use chafe guards on all lines to prevent wear and tear.
• Anchor Properly: Use a hurricane-rated anchor and set multiple anchors in a "V" or "Y" configuration.

Prepare the Boat

• Remove Valuables: Take out all personal items, electronics, and valuables from the boat.
• Secure Hatches and Ports: Make sure all hatches, ports, and windows are sealed and locked to prevent water entry.
• Bilge Pumps: Ensure bilge pumps are operational and have automatic switches. Consider installing a high-capacity pump if you don’t already have one.
• Drain Plugs: Ensure drain plugs are in place and watertight.
• Fuel and Batteries: Top off the fuel tank and secure all batteries. Disconnect the electrical system to prevent short circuits.
• Reduce Windage: Remove sails, Bimini tops, dodgers, and any other items that can catch the wind. Secure or remove antennas and outriggers.

Documentation and Insurance

• Update Insurance: Make sure your boat insurance is current and covers hurricane damage.
• Document the Condition: Take detailed photos and videos of your boat's condition before the storm for insurance purposes.

Use a Hurricane Mooring

• Hurricane Mooring Buoy: If available, secure your boat to a designated hurricane mooring buoy, which is specifically designed to withstand strong winds and waves.

Post-Hurricane Inspection

• Check for Damage: After the storm, carefully inspect your boat for any damage.
• Report to Insurance: Document any damage and report it to your insurance company promptly.
• Repair and Maintenance: Address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.

By following these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your boat during hurricane season and ensure it remains secure and in good condition.