How to Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane

How to Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane

While hurricane season may run from the beginning of June through the end of November, the majority of tropical storms hit Florida between mid-August and late October, which means we are in the midst of the peak time for hurricanes. If you own a boat in Florida, here’s what you need to do to ready your boat for hurricane season in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Don’t wait

Some boat owners put off protecting their boat until a hurricane is confirmed, but by then it may be too late to protect your vessel. By starting early, you can ensure that all the necessary precautions have been taken to keep your boat safe before a hurricane hits shore.

Understand your coverage

If you’ve never taken a close look at your boat insurance, now is a good time to do it. Insurance is one of those things that most people don’t think too much about until they need to use it. By knowing the ins and outs of your coverage, you can ensure that your coverage provides adequate protection. Some plans may require that you take certain safety precautions in the case of a hurricane, or they won’t cover damages. Insurance plans may even help you cover the cost of moving your boat before a storm hits. Taking the time to understand your coverage before a hurricane hits can help save you time, money and hassle.

Move your boat to dry land

While this may not be a possibility, if you can, you should move your boat to dry land. Statistics show that boats that are kept on dry land typically fare better in hurricanes than those left on the water. You should move your boat as far away from tidal waters as possible and store it in a safe location. If possible, store your boat in a covered facility/storage unit. If this is not an option, make sure your boat is securely stored on jacks that won’t shift from strong winds or soft ground.

Secure your lines

If moving your boat to dry land is not an option, there are other precautions you can take to keep your vessel safe during a hurricane. You should double all lines and rig-cross spring lines, attaching lines high on solid pilings to allow for rising waters and waves. If your boat will remain on mooring, make sure that the mooring can withstand the load your boat will put on it if being jostled by strong winds and waves.

Anchor your boat

Hurricanes put a tremendous load on the anchor. The best type of hurricane to use during a hurricane is a helix, since it can screw into the seabed and doesn’t run the risk of being taken with the prevailing wind.

By following these few tips, you can help keep your boat safe during a hurricane in Fort Lauderdale, FL. However, if you do find yourself in need of boat maintenance after a hurricane, be sure to call the experts at Starboard Yacht Group LLC for the assistance you require.