A Hurricane Plan for Your Boat in Florida: Before the Season, at the Watch, After the Storm

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 (National Hurricane Center). For a boat owner in Florida, the plan has three stages: what you do before the season, what you do when a watch is issued, and what you do after the storm.

1. Before the season (May)

1. Decide where the boat goes. FWC’s first advice is to put the boat on a trailer and move it as far from tidal waters as you can (FWC). If that is not possible, know which slip, lift or mooring it will ride the storm on.
2. Read your marina or storage contract. Look for the hurricane clause, who may move the boat and what fees apply.
3. Read your policy. Find the named storm or hurricane deductible, whether the policy helps with hauling out or moving the boat, and whether it includes wreck removal.
4. Take photos and a list of the boat, the engine hours, electronics and gear. Store them off the boat.
5. Line up help. If you travel in summer, name someone who can carry out the plan.

2. When a watch is issued

Florida law does not let marinas require owners to remove boats after a hurricane watch or warning, so that people’s safety comes first. But after a tropical storm or hurricane watch, the marina may take reasonable steps to secure your boat and charge a reasonable fee, and if your contract contains the notice the law describes, it may move the boat if you do not remove it promptly (s. 327.59).

• If the boat stays in the water: double the lines, add spring lines, tie them high on the pilings to allow for surge, and protect them from chafe.
• Keep the batteries charged for the bilge pumps, and remove canvas, electronics and anything that can blow away.
• Never stay aboard during the storm. No boat is worth a life.

3. After the storm

Check the boat only when officials say it is safe. Photograph everything before you move or repair anything, and call your agent to report the claim.

If the boat sank or was blown ashore, Florida generally does not allow a derelict vessel to stay on state waters. If it became derelict because of a hurricane, the owner is not penalized if he or she documents what happened and removes or repairs it within 45 days after the hurricane has passed (s. 823.11). Raising a sunken boat is costly work, which is why wreck removal coverage matters.

If the boat was involved in an accident with injuries or other damage, a written report may also be required (s. 327.301).

Coverage, deductibles and exclusions depend on each policy. A licensed agent can go through yours with you before the next season.