What do I do with my boat if a hurricane is coming?

If a hurricane is approaching and you own any kind of marine vessel, there are several precautionary steps you can take to keep yourself and your vessel safe.

First and foremost, you need to assess the risk and level of damage the storm could cause. If you have received a watch or warning for anything at the level of a tropical storm or greater, you should have enough notice to move quickly to take any steps needed to evacuate your vessel from the area to be affected. 

• Remove All Loose Items: Take down anything that can be blown away or damaged such as sails, canvas, biminis, and cushions. Ensure the boat is watertight, seal any leaks, and close all hatches to prepare for heavy rain
   
• Strengthen Mooring Lines: Use chains and nylon lines to secure your boat to the mooring. Nylon is durable and can withstand heavy loads. It's advisable to have three lines in total to absorb shock and provide adequate hold.
   
• Dry Land Storage: If possible, store your boat on dry land and as far inland as possible. This minimizes the risk of damage from surges and waves. Practicing evacuation drills can also be beneficial to prevent panic during unexpected situations.
   
• Double Lines at the Dock: If the boat must stay in the water, double all mooring lines and use rig-cross spring lines to allow for tidal rise and surge. Attach lines high on pilings and ensure that cleats and other attachment points are robust.
   
• Dock Line Configuration: Arrange dock lines so that your boat is centered like a spider in a web, which helps it to remain stable and absorb the forces from the storm. Use the longest lines possible to account for storm surge, and protect lines against chafing.
   
• Haul-Out Plans: Studies suggest that boats stored ashore are more likely to survive a hurricane. Some marinas offer haul-out services as part of a hurricane plan. 

If you are unable to preemptively move the vessel out of the storm's path, taking these measures can significantly increase the chances of your boat surviving a hurricane with minimal damage. It’s always best to have a plan in place well before hurricane season begins.

Read more about the different vessel types we can help remove.