Hurricane season runs June through November in the Atlantic, and peak activity typically falls between August and October. If you keep your boat in the water, preparation isn't optional — it's the difference between a stressful event and a catastrophe.

This checklist covers everything you need to do before, during, and after a storm. Print it, save it, and use it every season.

Early Season (May — Before Peak)

✅ Verify insurance coverage — make sure your policy covers named storms and that your deductible is manageable
✅ Review your marina's hurricane plan — know whether they require haul-outs or allow in-water mooring
✅ Inspect dock lines — replace any that are frayed, chafed, or questionable. Double up on spring lines
✅ Check fenders — you'll need enough to protect both your boat and neighboring vessels
✅ Test bilge pumps and batteries — your bilge system is your last line of defense

48-72 Hours Before Landfall

✅ Strip the boat — remove canvas, cushions, sails, electronics, loose gear, and anything that can become a projectile
✅ Secure everything below — stow tools, portable electronics, and valuables. Latch all lockers and hatches
✅ Double lines — add extra dock lines, spring lines, and chafe protection at every point of contact
✅ Batteries — charge batteries fully. A charged battery handles load better and lasts longer if charging is interrupted
✅ Bilge pumps — confirm automatic operation. Clean bilge wells of debris. Test both primary and backup pumps
✅ Close seacocks — all through-hulls below the waterline should be closed and double-checked
✅ Fuel — top off the tank. A full tank prevents water contamination and provides ballast. Add fuel stabilizer
✅ Water — fill fresh water tanks for ballast if your boat will remain in the water
✅ Document — take photos of your boat and everything on it for insurance purposes

24 Hours Before Landfall

✅ Remove or secure dinghy — either haul it out, tie it down on deck, or move it far inland
✅ Check on neighbors — see if nearby boats need help with lines or gear
✅ Final weather check — verify the latest track and intensity forecast
✅ Evacuate — leave the boat. Do not ride out a hurricane aboard your vessel

Essential Gear to Have Onboard Before Storm Season

Having the right equipment ready before the season starts makes storm prep faster and more effective.

Extra dock lines and fenders — You'll always want more than you think. Chafe protection is equally important; nylon lines saw through dock edges when wind picks up.

Backup bilge pump — A high-capacity automatic pump with its own dedicated battery can save your boat if the primary system fails or gets overwhelmed.

Battery charger / maintainer — Keeping batteries topped off through storm prep is critical. A quality marine battery maintainer ensures you have power when you need it.

Fuel stabilizer — If you top off before a storm, add stabilizer. Gasoline degrades within weeks, and you may not use that fuel for months after evacuation.

Portable power — A jump pack or portable power station can be invaluable for post-storm assessment if marina power is out.

Waterproof document bags — Insurance papers, registration, and emergency contacts should be stored in a sealed, floatable bag you can grab quickly.

After the Storm

  • Don't rush back — Wait for official clearance. Hazards continue after the storm passes
  • Inspect carefully — Check hull, through-hulls, engine, electrical systems, and bilges before starting anything
  • Pump out — Even with working pumps, your bilge may have taken on significant water. Use a portable pump if needed
  • Document damage — Take photos before you clean or repair anything. Contact your insurer promptly

The Bottom Line

Preparation is everything. A few hours of work before storm season — and a focused 48-hour push before landfall — can mean the difference between a stressful but manageable event and losing your boat entirely.

Don't wait until the cone of uncertainty points at your marina. Start now.

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