Tropical Storm Hermine: How to secure your boat against high winds & storm surge

Hermine is not currently listed as hurricane status, however these notes reflect good preparation for any tropical disturbance level. 

A sample storm arrangement: note the spring lines, which were the longest lines, are now the shortest. Stern lines are extended one or two slips away. Additional bow lines lead across to the next dock or to storm anchors placed out from the slip.

On a face dock, position the boat farther (the farther, the better) than usual from the dock and add offshore lines to hold the boat away from the dock. Offshore lines can lead to distant pilings or trees, such as across a canal, or to anchors if the bottom provides adequate holding.

 

 

Anchor your boat in a protected harbor where the bottom can allow a good anchor hold. An advantage to anchoring is that the boat can more easily respond to wind and water changes without striking docks or other boats than when moored. Heavy and extra anchors are needed for this option and enough line should be on hand to allow a scope of at least 10:1 for each anchor.

Hurricane Holes are ideal locations to moor your boat during a tropical storms, high winds and even hurricanes. These deep, narrow coves or inlets are best when surrounded by sturdy trees which block the wind and provide a tie-off for anchor lines.  A hurricane hole needs to be far enough inland to avoid the most severe winds and tides.