Guide
Before and after a storm: boats, lifts and docks
The official Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30. Use the checklist for docks, lifts and boats before and after a storm.
The season
- Atlantic hurricane season: June 1 through November 30 (NOAA National Hurricane Center).
Before a storm
- Lift cradles raised, cables inspected, loose gear off the dock.
- Boats in the water: lines doubled and chafe-protected, fenders out, through-hulls checked.
After a storm
- Underwater check of pilings, lift beams, props and rudders for strikes and debris.
Sources
- NOAA National Hurricane Center: Atlantic hurricane season dates — https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/climo/
- Neptune Boat Lifts: Hurricane boat lift preparation — https://www.neptuneboatlifts.com/resources/hurricane-boat-lift-preparation/
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: Hurricane boating resources — https://myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/hurricane/
- Connecticut DEEP: Preparing your boat for a hurricane — https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Boating/Preparing-Your-Boat-for-A-Hurricane
- Docks of Orlando: Inspecting your boat after a hurricane — https://docksoforlando.com/2024/11/11/inspecting-your-boat-after-a-hurricane-on-a-lift-vs-in-the-water/
Related service
Seawall & Dock Piling Cleaning — Barnacles damage more than appearance. Over time, they compromise structural integrity through weight and corrosive secretions.