Every marina has its own rules about what boat owners must do when a hurricane is coming. In response to Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, states are starting to pass laws that tell boat owners how to prepare their boats. With all this information, some of which is contradictory, what are the most important things a boat owner needs to know to protect themselves and their boat during a hurricane?
Most experts agree that the most important advice comes from two simple rules. First, figure out what you'll do when a hurricane is coming. That means you need to look at your contract with the marina to see what they want and check with your state to see if there are any other rules. You should also check with your boat insurance company to see if they have any rules that could affect your coverage. Do a dry run during the off-season to make sure you know how long it takes to move your boat or get it ready.
Second, you should never try to ride out a hurricane in your boat because it is not safe. There is a belief that being on a boat in open water during a hurricane is safer than being on land, but this is not true. The winds and tides of a hurricane can push boats a long way inland or even sink them. You shouldn't risk your life for your boat.
If you can, moving your boat is always the best way to avoid damage. But to do this, inland storage space needs to be set up ahead of time. Also, many boat owners don't know that drawbridges are often locked before a hurricane so that people in low-lying areas can get out faster. This makes it even more important to get your boat out of the way as soon as a hurricane watch is issued for your area.
Some places have flotilla plans so that as many boats as possible can move as quickly as possible. Before a hurricane, your local emergency management office will send out information about flotillas. If you want to join a flotilla, make sure your boat is in good shape and has enough gas.
If you can't move your boat, there are some easy things you can do to lessen the damage. Take everything out of your boat that can move around and cause damage, like electronics, antennas, dinghies, sun shades, oars, and so on. Make sure that any other items are tied down well. Get rope and other supplies to secure your boat well before a storm, because these things may be hard to find.
