How to Prepare a Boat for a Florida Hurricane

Marina vs. haul-out vs. hurricane hole — options for protecting a boat in a Florida storm, and what to do before landfall.

Dale Whitaker

July 11, 2026 · 9 min read

Introduction

Every Florida boat owner needs a hurricane plan filed before June 1.

Options

Haul out and store on land (usually safest)
Hurricane hole (protected water)
Marina slip with proper lines (last resort)

Before landfall

Remove canvas, electronics, loose gear; double up lines with chafe protection.

FAQ

Does insurance require a hurricane plan? Many Florida marine policies do.

Written by

Dale Whitaker

RV owner & licensed boater, 20+ years on Florida water and roads

Dale Whitaker has spent two decades towing travel trailers, running center consoles, and camping across Florida's coasts and springs. He writes practical, field-tested guides for people buying, maintaining, and traveling with RVs and boats.

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