Hurricane Season Prep: Protecting Your Yacht

Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30 in Florida. Hope isn't a strategy—proper preparation is the difference between riding out the season and filing an insurance claim.

⚠️ Don't Wait Until a Storm Forms

Haul-out facilities and hurricane holes fill up fast once a storm enters the forecast. Prepare your plan before June 1.

Before Hurricane Season

1. Review Your Insurance

Confirm your policy covers named storms
Understand your "named storm" deductible (often 2-5% of hull value)
Know your "navigational limits" during hurricane season
Document your vessel's condition with dated photos

2. Create a Hurricane Plan

Option A: Haul out — Secure storage on land (safest)
Option B: Hurricane hole — Protected inland waterway
Option C: Ride it out in slip — Only for minor storms, requires marina approval

3. Inventory Equipment

Stock up before you need it:

Extra dock lines (double your normal supply)
Chafe protection for all lines
Extra fenders
Anchor and rode (for hurricane hole option)
Tie-down straps (for haul-out)

When a Storm Threatens (72+ Hours Out)

Execute your pre-planned strategy—don't improvise
Remove all canvas, biminis, and enclosures
Strip exterior of anything that can blow away
Seal all openings and ventilation
Remove electronics if practical
Take updated photos for insurance documentation

Haul-Out Preparation

If hauling out (recommended for any significant storm):

Book early—yards fill up fast
Ensure proper blocking and jack stands
Strap the boat down (not just relying on stands)
Remove seacocks and drain water systems
Consider removing batteries

Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Download our complete hurricane preparation checklist:

☐ Insurance policy reviewed and documented
☐ Hurricane plan chosen (haul/hole/slip)
☐ Extra lines and chafe gear stocked
☐ Marina/yard hurricane policy understood
☐ Vessel documentation and photos updated
☐ Emergency contact list prepared
☐ Remove canvas and exterior items
☐ Seal all openings
☐ Final walkthrough completed

After the Storm

Wait for official all-clear before returning
Document any damage immediately with photos
Contact insurance before making any repairs
Check bilges and all through-hulls before launching
Inspect rigging, canvas, and systems thoroughly

Let Us Handle It

Hurricane prep is stressful—especially if you're not local. Many yacht owners rely on professional managers to execute their storm plan while they focus on their own homes and families.