The short version
- Write a hurricane plan before the season and file it with your insurer if they require one.
- Read your policy's named-storm terms: deductibles, navigation limits and haul-out benefits.
- Decide in advance whether you will haul out, move, or secure in the slip, and book it early.
- Strip windage, double lines with chafe protection, and charge the batteries for the bilge pumps.
This is general preparation advice. Follow your insurer's requirements and your marina's rules, and get professional help for anything structural.
Make the plan before June
- Write it down: where the boat will go, who moves it, and how long it takes.
- Check your insurance: many policies have named-storm deductibles and navigation limits, and some contribute to haul-out costs if you act early. Some require a written plan.
- Book early: haul-out slots and hurricane-hole space fill quickly once a storm is forecast.
Haul out, move, or stay
- Haul out: boats stored ashore and properly strapped generally fare well, but storage yards can flood and boats can topple if not secured.
- Move: running north or to a protected hurricane hole works if you leave early enough to avoid the weather.
- Stay in the slip: only with a marina that allows it, a slip with room to move, and a plan for lines and fenders.
When a storm is forecast
- Remove canvas, biminis, cushions and anything that can catch wind.
- Double the lines, use chafe protection at every contact point, and allow for storm surge.
- Close seacocks you won't need, and make sure cockpit drains are clear.
- Charge batteries fully so bilge pumps can run if shore power fails.
- Photograph the boat and keep documents and the inventory with you, not aboard.
After the storm
Inspect carefully before running anything, especially electrical systems that may have been wet. Document damage with photographs before cleanup, and contact your insurer promptly.
Common questions
When is hurricane season in Florida?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year.
Should I haul my boat out for a hurricane?
It depends on the boat, the facility and the storm. Properly strapped boats ashore often fare well, but read your insurer's requirements and plan early, because haul-out slots fill fast.
Talk it through with Kevin
Coast Guard veteran. Fifteen years at Denison Yachting, where he managed new-boat sales for Selene and Hatteras. Founded Resolute in 2021.