Safeguard your boat, yourself with these hurricane season tips
Last Updated on August 17, 2023 by Boatsetter Team
Experts from Boatsetter, an industry leading boat-sharing marketplace, want to educate boat owners, captains and others in the marine industry on the best practices for securing boats with these hurricane season tips.
Already since this year’s hurricane season has officially kicked off, a fourth storm has recently been named. When these storms hit, boat owners may arrive to find their boats in disarray if proper precautions aren’t adhered to when docking or storing their vessels.
“At Boatsetter, boating safety extends beyond being out on the water. We care about the boating community and want to be a resource for them to help make sure boats are properly stored and docked in the case of a hurricane or tropical storm hitting our shores,” said Pablo Vidal, chief marketing officer of Boatsetter.com.
“While we connect people with a way to enjoy an afternoon or weekend on the water, we want to make sure everyone is fully prepared for this year’s hurricane season.”
Experts at Boatsetter have provided examples of the best and worst ways to secure a boat during a hurricane or tropical storm:
BEST
- Strap down boat when ashore with proper straps rated for the proper weight
- Remove boat from water and store on high ground
- Use dry dock facilities that were built after Hurricane Andrew
- Have a full plan for your boat in place before a hurricane warning is posted
- Move boat inland out of the path of the storm
- Don’t wait until the last minute, plan ahead and know when the storm is scheduled to hit your area
WORST
- Docking at floating dock with short pilings
- Docking at an overcrowded marina
- Docking a boat on davits
- Tying off to a dock with rotted or unsecure mooring cleats
According to the Coast Guard’s website, “The best protection for boats is a well prepared hurricane plan. Marine facilities, marine-related service organizations and insurance companies expect boat owners to take the time and effort to plan necessary actions to secure and protect their vessels.”
Novice boat owners storing their boats at a marina or facility should speak with a dock master or manager to attain a hurricane checklist for proper storing techniques.
Experts at Boatsetter warn against being on the water during a hurricane or tropical storm and advise all boaters, both experienced and beginners, to wait out the storm in a safe location.
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
