Experiencing 90 kts at the masthead is an experience I'll probably carry to my grave; it made a BIG impression.
I recently wrote something about this for another
hurricane thread, but for those of you who are preparing, but inexperienced, err on the side of caution.
Reducing your windage is paramount. Wind force increases geometrically. Every piece of
canvas you remove and stow below will help your
boat survive.
So, Remove all headsails, and stow. the largest ones first and farthest deep in the boat. Leave somewhere for you to sit down or lie down if you're going to stay with the boat, but really pack densely. Everything outside that can, must come inside. Use lines to secure the foils against flailing around. Remove the
mainsail if possible. If not, lead the lazy jacks forward, and wrap the sail on the boom with
jib sheets or other line. The expected
wind strength makes the wind like it has claws, and any
fabric it can get loose, it will shred. Remove all
weather cloths, Life slings,
MOB pole can be lashed on side
deck on the expected leeward side. Jerry jugs below.
If you're in a marina, double up on your fenders and
dock lines. Basically, you should be okay with 5 large fenders per side, but two won't do, they'll start popping with side loads from about 40 kn. on. You'll need to prepare to protect both sides of your boat, for both wind directions.
You will want chafe
gear that will allow the heat of the stretching nylon to dissipate.
It is hard to imagine the strength of the wind, but use your imagination to magnify it.
If you have to go outside at 90 kn., and if it is pouring rain, some people have used their dive mask and snorkel, to protect your eyes and still breathe.
Remember, anything that is not secured is a potential bomb when it strikes you or your boat.
Dinghy, lashed very securely upside down on
deck, if it cannot go below.
Good luck, all of you, preparation helps, but luck is also a good deal. And when it's over, try and help someone less fortunate, or, while it's going on, like s/v Shameless did in
Mexico a few weeks ago. Your spare fenders, if any, can help someone else, also old tires make dirty, but effective fenders.
Ann