Southwest Florida sits directly in the path of some of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes on record. Hurricane Ian in 2022 destroyed thousands of boats throughout Lee and Charlotte County — the vast majority of the losses were preventable with proper preparation. As a veteran-owned marine service company operating in this region, SWFL Outboards has seen firsthand what preparation looks like versus what the aftermath of unpreparedness looks like.
This guide covers what every boat owner in Charlotte County and Lee County should do before and during hurricane season.
When Does Hurricane Season Start?
The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30. In Southwest Florida, the peak threat window is August through October, though significant storms have occurred outside those months. You should have your boat and trailer hurricane-ready by June 1 every year — not when a storm is already in the Gulf.
Step 1: Complete a Full System Check Before Season
The worst time to discover a mechanical problem is when you are trying to move your boat before a storm. Before hurricane season begins:
- Engine service — Complete your annual outboard service if not already done. A reliable engine is critical if you need to move the boat quickly.
- Bilge pump — Test your bilge pump and float switch. A working bilge pump can keep a marina-stored boat afloat through heavy rain.
- Battery — Load-test your battery and charge it fully. A dead battery means a non-functional bilge pump.
- Trailer — Inspect bearings, lights, and tires. You may need to tow the boat on short notice.
SWFL Outboards provides pre-hurricane season full system checks throughout Charlotte and Lee County. Scheduling early in the spring avoids the June rush.
Step 2: Know Your Storage Options
Dry Stack Storage
Dry stack facilities (indoor rack storage) offer the best hurricane protection for smaller to mid-size boats. Most reputable dry stack facilities have storm protocols and will rack boats before a named storm. If you use dry stack storage, confirm your facility’s hurricane procedures.
Marina Slip
Boats in slips are vulnerable. If you stay in a slip through hurricane season:
- Use heavy-duty dock lines rated well above your boat’s weight
- Use chafe guards on all lines where they contact cleats or dock edges
- Add spring lines and breast lines in addition to bow and stern lines
- Remove canvas, biminis, and anything that can catch wind
- Remove electronics if time permits
Trailering Out
Moving your boat inland on a trailer is the safest option for smaller vessels. Aim to be at least 50 miles inland and away from storm surge zones. Tie the boat to the trailer and the trailer to a fixed structure. Deflating trailer tires slightly reduces the chance of a blowout during extended storage.
Haul Out
Many boatyards offer hurricane haul-outs before major storms. Boats stored on stands ashore in a boatyard are significantly safer than those in the water during a storm surge event. If you choose this option, ensure the yard uses adequate stands and blocking.
Step 3: Pre-Storm Checklist (When a Storm Is Approaching)
When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued for your area:
Engine and mechanical:
- Run the engine and confirm it starts and runs normally
- Top off the fuel tank (full tanks reduce condensation and are ready for post-storm movement)
- Check and top off engine oil and gear lube
Boat interior:
- Remove all loose items from the cockpit and cabin
- Remove and store cushions, life jackets, dock lines (except those holding the boat), and personal gear
- Remove the bimini, T-top canvas, and any canvas covers — these act as sails in high winds
- Close and secure all hatches, ports, and vents
- Pump the bilge dry and verify the bilge pump is operational
Documentation:
- Photograph the boat from all angles for insurance documentation
- Have your vessel documentation, registration, and insurance policy accessible
Electrical:
- If leaving the boat in a slip, leave the bilge pump circuit on but disconnect shore power if flooding is possible
- Remove expensive electronics (chartplotters, VHF radios) if time allows
Step 4: After the Storm
Do not return to the marina or boat immediately after a storm passes. Wait for authorities to declare the area safe. When you do return:
- Check for structural damage before boarding — look for hull damage, compromised transom, or displaced bilge stringers
- Check the bilge — pump it out and look for water intrusion that wasn’t there before
- Run fresh water through the engine cooling system before starting — storm surge can leave debris and salt deposits in cooling water intakes
- Inspect the electrical system — water intrusion into wiring is a leading cause of post-hurricane boat fires
If your boat sustained damage or submersion, do not attempt to start the engine. Contact SWFL Outboards for a post-storm inspection before attempting to operate the vessel.
SWFL Outboards: Pre-Hurricane Season Service in Charlotte and Lee County
SWFL Outboards provides pre-hurricane season full system checks and annual maintenance throughout Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers Beach, Englewood, Bonita Springs, and surrounding communities. We are a veteran-owned mobile marine service company and we come to your location.
Schedule your pre-season inspection early — our calendar fills quickly as June approaches.