Boot Key Harbor in Hurricane Season

[zboss]

What do the people on moorings do during the hurricane season as far as preparation go? I see they do not allow you to stay on, or warrant, the moorings during a hurricane.

At what point do they kick you off?

Where is there a good haulout location? Is there enough space for most boats?

[capt-couillon]

No warranty on the moorings. Gotta sign the hurricane policy page every season. Most folks just strip the sails, bimini, etc and button up. Some move off their mooring into a favorite "hurricane hole" and tie to the mangroves. Dinghys can be stored inside the City Marina building. All boats must move off the docks and walls in the City Marina channel but you can stay on the moorings. They try to get as many "anchorage" boats on moorings as they can as well. Lots drag in 40kt Nor'easters.

With extra mooring whips and plenty of chafing gear, I trust the moorings more than most ground tackle here in the harbor. Inspected 3 times a year by the engineers. Limited haulouts available especially during an emergency. On the stands was never appealing to me. One goes over, they all go over.

One price ya pay for paradise.