Florida Boat Hurricane Plan: Haul-Out, Storage and Costs
Every Florida boat owner needs a hurricane plan, and many insurers and marinas require one in writing. The right plan depends on the size of the boat, where it is kept, and how much warning you will have. This guide walks through the main options, what they typically cost, and what to do before, during and after a storm. Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 to November 30.
Why a written plan matters
Many Florida boat insurance policies ask for a hurricane plan and may require you to follow it when a named storm threatens. Some policies help pay for a professional haul-out or relocation, and some reduce coverage if you do nothing. Marinas often have their own rules requiring boats to leave the docks or be hauled when a hurricane watch or warning is posted. A written plan forces you to make arrangements in June rather than scrambling the day before landfall, when yards are full, ramps are crowded and roads are clogged.
Your plan should name where the boat will go, who will move it, how long it takes, what triggers the move (for example, a hurricane watch for your county), and backup options if the primary plan fails. Keep it with your policy documents and share it with your marina and insurer.
Option 1: Haul out to a boatyard
Hauling the boat and storing it on land is widely considered one of the safer options, though it is not risk-free. Boats on land can be blown off stands or damaged by surge if the yard floods. Better yards strap boats down to anchors in the ground, place them closer together on stands designed for storms, and choose higher ground.
Typical costs. Many Florida yards offer hurricane haul-out contracts, sometimes for an annual reservation fee, plus per-foot haul and launch charges and daily storage. The cost of a hurricane haul and short-term storage often lands in the hundreds to low thousands of dollars depending on boat size and yard, and spaces fill fast. Sign up early in the season. Ask exactly when the yard will start hauling, what happens if you arrive late, and whether the boat will be strapped down.
Option 2: Dry stack storage
If your boat already lives in dry stack, ask how the facility handles storms. Some buildings are engineered for high winds and keep boats on the racks; others move boats from upper racks to the ground or require owners to take boats away. Rack storage buildings have suffered damage in major hurricanes, so ask about the building's rating and the facility's record.
Option 3: Trailer it inland
Trailerable boats have a big advantage: you can move them out of the surge zone. Plan where you will take the boat (a friend's property, a storage lot inland, your garage), and leave early, before evacuation traffic and high winds. On land, secure the boat and trailer: tie the trailer to ground anchors, let some air out of the tires, remove the drain plug so rain can drain (if the boat is tilted to drain properly), and remove canvas and electronics. Some owners add weight by leaving water in the boat; this is debated, and adding water can overload a trailer, so follow the trailer and boat manufacturer guidance.
Option 4: Hurricane hole
A hurricane hole is a protected creek, canal or cove where a boat can ride out a storm on multiple anchors and lines. Some Florida areas have traditional hurricane holes, but many are now restricted, crowded or regulated, and local governments may prohibit anchoring in certain channels during storms. This option requires seamanship, good ground tackle, and leaving the boat before conditions deteriorate. Never stay aboard during a hurricane.
Option 5: Securing in the slip
If the boat must stay in a wet slip, preparation reduces damage risk: double up lines with chafe protection, use longer lines to allow for surge, tie to pilings rather than cleats on floating docks if appropriate, remove canvas, cushions and electronics, charge batteries for bilge pumps, close seacocks except cockpit drains, and add fenders. Floating docks can fail in surge, and boats in slips often damage each other. Many marinas forbid leaving boats during storms; follow their rules.
Boats on lifts
Boats left on lifts can be lifted off by surge or damaged by wind. Many lift manufacturers and contractors advise removing the boat. If it must stay, raise it as high as possible above expected surge, secure it to the lift according to the manufacturer's guidance, remove canopy covers, and shut off power to the lift. See the boat lift and dock calculator for more on lifts.
Before the storm: checklist
- Confirm your haul-out reservation or storage arrangement early in the season.
- Keep registration, insurance, photos and the hurricane plan in a waterproof folder or digital copy.
- Photograph the boat inside and out for insurance records.
- Remove electronics, canvas, cushions, sails, outriggers and loose gear.
- Charge batteries and test bilge pumps.
- Fill fuel tanks if the boat stays in the water (reduces condensation and adds stability) or follow yard rules if hauled.
- Seal hatches and windows with tape if needed.
- Move early. Bridges may lock down and marinas may close well before landfall.
- Secure your home too. Our sister site covers hurricane shutter costs and generator sizing.
After the storm
Do not rush back until authorities say it is safe. Marinas and yards may be closed, and waterways may contain debris. When you can, photograph the damage, report claims promptly, and prevent further damage (for example, by pumping out water or covering openings). Be cautious with contractors who show up after storms; check licensing and insurance. Insurers commonly cover reasonable steps you take to prevent further damage, so keep receipts.
What hurricane preparation costs
Costs vary widely, but a few items show up often:
| Item | Typical pattern |
|---|---|
| Hurricane haul-out reservation | Some yards charge an annual reservation fee; others only charge if they haul |
| Haul and launch | Usually per foot of boat length |
| Storage on land | Daily or monthly per foot; minimums may apply |
| Strapping or tie-downs | Sometimes included, sometimes extra |
| Trailer move inland | Your fuel and time, or a hired tow |
| Lines, chafe gear, fenders | One-time purchase reused each season |
Some insurers reimburse a portion of haul-out costs when a named storm threatens. Ask whether yours does and what documentation it requires. For general ownership costs, see the ownership cost calculator.
Insurance details to check
- Does the policy have a named-storm deductible, and how is it calculated?
- Does it reimburse haul-out or relocation costs?
- Does it require a specific plan, and what happens if you cannot follow it?
- Does it cover wreck removal and fuel spill cleanup?
- Are there navigation restrictions during hurricane season?
See the insurance estimator for premium factors.
Regional considerations
The Keys and South Florida have the highest storm exposure and limited high ground; hauling or leaving the Keys may take long lead times. Southwest Florida saw catastrophic surge in Hurricane Ian (2022); boats in canals and marinas were heavily damaged. Tampa Bay has a shallow bay that can amplify surge. The Panhandle experienced devastating winds in Hurricane Michael (2018). Northeast Florida has historically seen fewer direct landfalls but significant river flooding. Read our regional guides.
Frequently asked questions
When should I move my boat?
Most plans use a hurricane watch for your area as the trigger, because by the time a warning is issued, yards may be full and bridges may close. Earlier is better.
Is it safer on land or in the water?
On land is often considered safer if the boat is properly supported and tied down above the expected surge. A well-protected hurricane hole can work for experienced owners. Leaving a boat in an exposed slip is usually the riskiest option.
Can I stay on my boat during a hurricane?
No. Staying aboard during a hurricane is extremely dangerous. Follow evacuation orders from your county emergency management office.