How To Develop A Hurricane Prep Plan

The first step in developing a preparation plan is to review your dock contract for language that may require you to take certain steps or to leave the marina when a hurricane threatens. Some marinas require boat owners to have and present a hurricane plan of their own. Ask the marina manager what hurricane plan the marina has in place. Planning where your boat will best survive a storm and what protective steps you need to take should begin before hurricane season.

Our BoatUS Marine Insurance claim files show that the probability of damage can be reduced considerably by choosing the most storm-worthy location possible and having your plan ready long before a hurricane warning is posted. You may be able to join a "Hurricane Club," which would allow you to have your boat hauled whenever a hurricane warning is posted. These usually require signing up long before the first hurricanes and sometimes require a nonrefundable deposit, but you'll be among the first to be hauled.

Note that BoatUS Marine Insurance will pay half the cost, up to $1,000, to have your boat hauled prior to a hurricane, moved by a professional to a safer location, or for the professional execution of a hurricane plan. BoatUS will also lower the named-storm deductible for boat owners who can show they have properly prepared their boats (photos are a good idea). Also, call your insurance company to verify you have the right coverage and that you're in the right coverage area. Once a hurricane is threatening, it's too late to get or change coverage. Now is the time to check.