Secure your boat by removing or lashing loose gear and checking dock cleats, chafe points, and fenders.
Protect the boat with a custom Marine Concepts boat cover track system for debris and water intrusion control—and remove it quickly yourself if conditions escalate.
Document everything for insurance and safety checks after the storm.
Why “boat hurricane prep” starts long before the cone shifts
A solid plan begins before hurricane season peaks. Pre-stage gear and a simple checklist so anyone can execute it.
Pre-storm checklist (start 72–48 hours out):
Inspect and replace worn dock lines; size up if your location sees fetch.
Add chafe protection at cleats, fairleads, and rub points.
Charge batteries to 100% and test shore power; if uncertain, disconnect and run batteries to avoid stray-current risks. Stage backup batteries in a dry locker.
Test automatic bilge pumps and float switches and check if discharge hoses are clear.
Remove canvas, cushions, isinglass, fishing gear, and small electronics; stow below.
Review the marina rules and evacuation triggers.
Securing a boat in the water
If you’re keeping a boat in the water, rig for surge and wind. The objective is to minimize movement without overloading hardware.
Attach lines high on pilings so they can ride a rising storm surge without parting.
Crossing spring lines fore and aft limits longitudinal travel.
Double all lines and use separate cleats/anchors for redundancy.
Verify dock cleats (yours and the marina’s) are through-bolted.
Deploy fenders at multiple heights; consider fender boards if against pilings.
If you’re at an exposed berth, consider relocating upriver or into a hurricane hole.
Equipment you can trust under pressure
Seaworthiness during a storm leans on simple, reliable systems:
Automatic bilge pumps: confirm amperage draw, float switch operation, and that check valves aren’t sticking.
Batteries: keep them fully charged and isolate house/engine banks. Assume shore power will fail; that’s why backup batteries matter.
Hardware: inspect shackles, fairleads, bow eyes, and pulpits; replace any corroded components.
Protect the boat’s exterior and interior
Wind-driven rain and airborne debris cause most hurricane damage. A tight, purpose-built cover reduces water intrusion, keeps debris out, and curbs mildew afterward.
Stow loose items: deck bins, antennas (if removable), throwable devices—anything that becomes a projectile.
Close seacocks except those needed for drainage; shut hatches and confirm gaskets are sound.
The Marine Concepts boat cover system shields topsides and upholstery with its premium marine-grade fabric. It’s designed for easy removal and reinstallation.
Dock and marina considerations
Every marina has a storm playbook—know it. Ask about mandatory haul-outs, floating vs. fixed docks, and when power will be shut down.
Tip: Favor high pilings on floating docks; they ride surge better.
Storing your boat on land
If you choose to store your boat ashore, aim for elevation and solid ground away from trees. On a lift or trailer:
Lower the center of gravity,empty water tanks, and remove any heavy deck gear.
Chock, tie down to earth anchors or a substantial structure, and let out some air from the tires to reduce bounce.
Remove drain plugs (if appropriate for your boat and local rules) to allow trapped water to exit.
Post-storm precautions
When authorities say it’s safe, return with patience and a plan:
Check for fuel leaks or sheen, then test bilge pumps and electrical systems before restoring shore power.
Document damage and your pre-storm steps to speed claims and repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hurricane Boat Prep
Do I leave shore power connected? If your marina cuts power early (many do), assume loss. Keep banks fully charged in advance and rely on batteries and automatic bilge pumps during the event.
What if my slip is exposed? Relocate upriver or to a protected basin. Failing that, add dock lines, crossing spring lines, more fenders, and consider a temporary mooring with adequate scope.
Can I keep a cover on in high winds? Yes, if it’s purpose-built and secured correctly. Marine Concepts’ track system is engineered for severe weather and easy to remove if forecasts worsen.
Should I haul out or keep a boat in the water? Hauling to a professional yard reduces many risks, but well-prepped in-water setups can ride out strong systems. Your location, storm surge modeling, and hardware should inform your decision.
Preparation Is Your Best Protection
Storms are unpredictable; your preparation doesn’t have to be. Begin days ahead, verify pumps and power, rig lines for surge, and remove anything that can fly. The bottom line? Start early, secure your boat methodically, and use purpose-built protection.
