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Hurricane season is part of life on the Florida Coast. If you own a yacht or boat, preparing for these storms is essential to protect your investment. While you can’t control the weather, you can make sure your vessel is as safe as possible.

At Yacht Haven Park & Marina in Fort Lauderdale, we’re designed to help you weather the season with peace of mind. This guide will walk you through the basics of hurricane season, risks to be aware of, and practical steps you can take to get ready.

 

When is hurricane season in Florida?

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. While storms can happen any time during these months, the peak period is August through October.

 

This time of year brings stronger, more frequent storms that can develop quickly. Staying aware of the forecast and preparing early can save you time, stress, and money down the line.

 

Risks to Boats During Hurricane Season

While hurricanes can be unpredictable and severe, even seemingly mild tropical storms can wreak havoc on boat owners. Owners of yachts and large boats should consider:

 

• High winds that can tear lines and slam boats against docks or other vessels.
• Storm surge that can lift boats onto docks or land, causing major damage.
• Flooding that can swamp marinas and damage equipment.
• Debris impact from other boats or floating objects.

 

Because these risks escalate quickly, it’s wise to have a plan in place before the season starts. 

 

How to Prepare Your Boat for Hurricane Season

Good preparation is the best way to keep your boat as safe as possible during storm season. The more you do in advance, the less you’ll have to rush if a storm is on the way.

A good starting checklist includes:

• Inspect and maintain lines and cleats: Check for wear, replace chafing gear, and make sure all hardware is strong enough to handle heavy loads.
• Secure or remove loose items: Canvas, sails, cushions, electronics, and gear should be stowed or taken off the boat entirely to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
• Check bilge pumps and batteries: Make sure bilge pumps work and batteries are charged so they can handle any water intrusion.
• Keep documentation handy: Store insurance papers, registration, and your hurricane plan somewhere you can access quickly.
• Review insurance requirements: Some policies require you to move your boat to an approved marina or haul-out facility before a storm.
• Know where you’ll take your boat if you plan on moving it: Last, but certainly not least, is to know where you’ll go, who will help, and how much time you need to get there. 

Planning ahead and staying organized can make all the difference when storms threaten.

 

Choosing the Right Hurricane Storage for Your Boat

Where you store your boat during hurricane season is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Not all marinas and storage options are created equal, especially when it comes to protecting your vessel from strong winds, surge, and flying debris.

Here are a few of the main options to consider:

 

• Haul-out facilities: These lift your boat out of the water and store it on land, reducing exposure to surge and waves. 

• Dry stack storage: Boats are kept on racks in large, covered buildings. This can offer solid protection but may not be available for larger yachts.
• Hurricane holes and safe harbors: Marinas designed with hurricanes in mind are typically located further inland and have infrastructure that can hold up to storms. 

 

When choosing a marina, look for protected locations away from open water and experienced staff who know how to secure boats for storms. These details help ensure your boat is as safe as possible if a hurricane is on the way.

 

While no marina can guarantee complete protection, at Yacht Haven Park & Marina, we’ve built our resort with these needs in mind. Some features include:

 

• A “hurricane hole” location along the New River that is better protected from unrestricted storm surge 
• Side-tie slips designed to accommodate boats up to 150’

• An experienced, professional team trained in storm preparation and response

• Convenient access for local and traveling yachts

• Full resort amenities, making it easy and enjoyable for owners to stay for the whole summer—not just during storms

 

Because demand for safe, well-equipped slips is especially high during hurricane season, it’s smart to reserve your spot early. Planning ahead means you won’t have to scramble for storage when a storm is already on the radar.

 

Reserve Your Hurricane Hole Slip Today

Hurricane season can fill up “hurricane hole” slips quickly. Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your spot. Reserve your slip at Yacht Haven Park & Marina today and enjoy the confidence that comes with knowing your boat is in good hands.