Hurricane Preparation for Boaters

Extreme weather can create challenges for boat owners, especially those living near the coast. As the weather gets warmer, the importance of having a plan about what to do in case of a hurricane increases. That is why the experts at Tommy’s Boats have created this guide on how to prepare your boat for hurricane season.

Check Your Insurance Policy

Marine insurance companies typically require that you take certain steps in order to file weather-related claims, so it might be a good idea to brush up on the finer details of your contract. In most cases, you will be required to provide video and photographic documentation of your boat and everything on it. We recommend that you keep important legal documents such as your insurance policy, boat registration, slip rental agreements, and radio licenses in a secure, waterproof container. If you need to evacuate, you can simply grab the container and bring it with you. 

Storing Your Boat Ashore

Pay attention to the weather so that you can be ready to move your boat should the need arise. The best place to store your boat during a hurricane is an indoor location further inland. If there is no indoor space available, lash the boat to its trailer, deflate the tires, and anchor the trailer into the ground. Then remove any personal items and weigh down the boat. 

Securing Your Boat at the Marina

If you have no choice but to store your boat on the water during a hurricane, you can choose to berth it, anchor it, or use a hurricane hole. Regardless, remember to remove any extra items like life jackets or fishing equipment before the storm hits. 

If your marina does not require that you remove your boat after a hurricane watch is issued, you can secure your boat in its berth. Be sure to double your mooring lines and leave enough slack to allow your boat to move up and down. 

If you choose to anchor your boat during the storm, make sure it is in a protected harbor with firm sediment. Though this method makes it less likely that your boat will strike other objects during the storm and be damaged, make sure you have a heavy enough anchor or anchors. 

Hurricane holes are deep coves or inlets surrounded by trees. These trees will block the wind and give you a place to tie off your anchor lines. If you go with this option, have a spot picked out ahead of time. 

For more information or to view our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit Tommy’s Boats at one of our dealerships. With sixteen locations across the US, including four in California and three in Michigan, you are sure to be able to find one near you. We also offer servicing, parts, rentals, boat customization, financing, brokerage, trade-ins, and storage. We hope to see you soon!