How to Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane: Essential Steps for Protection

Whether you store your boat on land or in the water, taking the necessary precautions ahead of time can make all the difference in protecting your investment and ensuring your boat’s safety. Below is a step-by-step guide to preparing your boat for a hurricane.

1. Develop a Hurricane Plan in Advance

   Before hurricane season begins, have a detailed plan in place for what you’ll do if a storm is approaching. This plan should include:

   • A checklist of tasks to prepare your boat
   • A safe location where you’ll store your boat
   • Contact information for marina personnel, local authorities, and your insurance company
   • Details of who will help you secure the boat if you are not available

2. Choose a Safe Location

   If possible, move your boat to a location less exposed to wind and water damage. Depending on your circumstances:

   On the Water: If moving your boat to a safer harbor or marina isn’t an option, find a secure dock or mooring area. Look for a location with deep water and minimal exposure to open areas.

   On Land: For trailerable boats, storing them on land in a garage, storage facility, or even your driveway can significantly reduce damage. If you’re storing it outdoors, position the boat on a high, flat surface away from trees and power lines.

3. Secure the Boat

   Properly securing your boat is critical, whether it's on land or water.

   For boats stored on the water:

   • Use extra lines for docking, and double-check that they are secured to sturdy, high-quality cleats or mooring points.
   • Arrange fenders around the boat to prevent it from slamming into the dock.
   • If anchored, use multiple anchors set at different angles for better stability.
   • Remove canvas coverings, sails, bimini tops, and any items that could create wind resistance.

   For boats on land:

   • Make sure your boat is secured to the trailer with additional tie-downs.
   • Consider lowering the tongue of the trailer and removing tires to make the boat less likely to move.
   • Use cinder blocks or jack stands for extra support if the boat is large and immovable.

4. Remove Loose Equipment

   Anything that isn’t bolted down can become dangerous during high winds. Remove the following items:

   • Canvas, sails, and covers
   • Antennas, outriggers, and other equipment
   • Electronics like GPS units and radios
   • Deck furniture, cushions, and life jackets

   Store all loose equipment in a secure location, such as a garage or storage facility, to avoid damage.

5. Seal Openings and Close Hatches

   Ensure all hatches, doors, and windows are tightly closed and sealed. Waterproof any openings that might allow water to enter the boat using duct tape or other sealants. If your boat has any cockpit drains, make sure they are functioning properly to prevent flooding.

6. Check the Bilge Pumps and Battery

   Bilge pumps can be a boat's last line of defense during a storm. Make sure they are working properly and capable of handling water. Also, check that your battery is fully charged to ensure the pumps will continue to operate if the power goes out.

7. Protect the Engine

   One of the most vulnerable components of your boat is the engine. Protect it by:

   • Flushing the engine with fresh water before the storm
   • Removing or securing the propeller and lower unit
   • Sealing any engine vents with duct tape or waterproof covers to prevent water from entering

8. Prepare Your Boat Trailer

   If you're storing your boat on a trailer, take extra steps to prevent the trailer from moving:

   • Deflate the tires slightly to minimize rolling.
   • Tie the trailer to a secure structure like a tree or ground anchors.
   • Use wheel chocks to prevent movement.

9. Take Photos and Document the Condition of Your Boat

   Before the storm hits, take detailed photos or videos of your boat from multiple angles. This documentation will be helpful for insurance purposes if your boat sustains damage during the hurricane. Be sure to also store all important documents, such as insurance policies and registration papers, in a waterproof container.

10. Keep Safety in Mind

    Above all, remember that your safety comes first. While it’s important to protect your boat, do not risk your life or the lives of others to secure it during an active storm. Plan early, and follow evacuation orders if they are issued in your area.

Preparing your boat for a hurricane requires careful planning and action well before the storm arrives. By moving your boat to a safer location, securing it properly, removing loose equipment, and taking other precautionary measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Having a hurricane plan in place can make the process smoother and more efficient, giving you peace of mind during hurricane season. Stay safe!