Hurricane season boat prep checklist

Your insurance policy has specific requirements — and if you don't follow them, your coverage can be compromised. Here's what every boat owner in a hurricane zone needs to know before June 1.

Understand your named storm deductible

Most Florida boat insurance policies carry a named storm deductible — separate from your standard deductible. This applies specifically to damage caused by a named tropical storm or hurricane. Unlike a flat-dollar deductible ($500, $1,000), named storm deductibles are typically percentage-based: 2–5% of your agreed hull value.

On a $200,000 vessel, a 3% named storm deductible means you're responsible for the first $6,000 of any hurricane-related claim. Know your number before a storm is named.

Check your hurricane plan requirements

Many Florida carriers require you to have a documented hurricane plan on file. This plan describes where your vessel will be moved or stored if a storm approaches — a hurricane-rated inland marina, a covered boatyard, or a specific distance from the coast.

If you don't have a plan on file, or if your plan doesn't meet your carrier's requirements, you may face coverage complications in a storm claim. Call NBOA to review your policy's specific requirements.

Pre-hurricane season checklist

• Review your policy's named storm deductible — know your number
• Confirm your carrier's hurricane plan requirements and ensure your plan is on file
• Identify your haul-out facility and confirm availability before the season starts
• Check your navigation territory limits — confirm Bahamas and offshore coverage if applicable
• Photograph your boat comprehensively — interior, exterior, electronics, equipment
• Keep a current inventory of onboard electronics and personal property
• NBOA members: confirm your emergency dispatch number is saved — 1-800-248-3512
• Review your NBOA Now® policy portal to confirm coverage is current and your vessel details are accurate

When a storm is named

• Execute your hurricane plan immediately — don't wait for the storm to be upgraded
• Document your preparation steps with photos and timestamps
• Contact NBOA at 1-800-248-3512 if you have questions about coverage during storm preparation
• NBOA members receive real-time weather alerts directly to their inbox — ensure your email is current in your membership profile