Even when not on the water, your boat can face a variety of dangers when it comes to damage and theft. Sharing a space with other boaters means that you will face danger when it comes to liability, as well. It is important to take measures in order to protect your boat and others.
Risks You May Face in a Marina
Think of a marina as any other type of parking lot. Other boaters will park right next to you. There will be traffic and pedestrians around. So, just as you want to park your car safely, you’ll want to dock your boat safely as well. If you dock and secure the boat appropriately, you’ll help keep safety risks to a minimum. If you leave any loose ends, you might cause a lot of problems.
Failing to lock down and protect your boat might not only harm your vessel. It could also harm the vessels of others. So, an unsecured boat will become a liability to you. Any losses you cause might become costly. You don’t want to have to file a boat insurance claim you might otherwise prevent.
Boat insurance will cover you in marinas. But that is not the primary issue. Accidents and liability damages that are your fault might lead to higher premiums in the end. That's what you want to avoid.
Keeping Your Boat Safe in The Marina
After you pull into your berth, you’ll have to go through a precise process to secure the boat.
-
Drop anchor and make sure it remains connected to the boat. Moor the boat using strong cables or chains. This will help prevent drift.
-
Consider placing bumpers near the dock and keep your boat’s fenders extended and armed. This can help cushion the boat in case it bumps against the dock or other objects.
-
Store all loose materials you keep on the boat. These might include everything from radios to chairs, water toys and sails.
-
If required, cover the hull and pull the boat’s motor out of the water.
-
If the boat has a security alarm, arm it. Lock down all cabins and storage bins. Remove personal items from the vessel.
You should strive to keep your boat as secure as you would a locked car. With appropriate care, you can keep it pristine while in the marina. Also be sure to speak with an insurance agent about improving your boat insurance policy.