Storms can be unpredictable, often catching us off guard. Being prepared before a warning or watch is issued is key to keeping your boat safe and avoiding the stress of last-minute scrambling.

» MORE: Guide to Hurricanes and Preparedness

As part of your storm prep, it’s important to review your insurance, paying close attention to Hurricane Haul Out Coverage.

What Is Hurricane Haul Out Coverage?

Hurricane Haul Out Coverage is a handy feature that many insurers offer to help protect your boat during storm season. Basically, this coverage helps reimburse you for some of the costs involved in hauling your boat out of the water when a named storm is on the way. 

Why Is Hurricane Haul Out Coverage Important?

Let’s face it—the cost of hauling out and safely storing your boat can really add up, especially when you’re trying to get it done in a hurry. That’s where Hurricane Haul Out Coverage comes in. It helps cover these expenses, so you’re not stuck paying the full bill yourself. Plus, getting your boat secured on land, preferably far inland, can significantly reduce the risk of damage from those intense winds and storm surges.

What to Look for When Reviewing Your Insurance

When you’re reviewing your insurance policy for this kind of coverage, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• What’s Covered: Make sure you understand what expenses are covered and under what conditions. Are the costs of transport and storage included, or just the haul-out itself?
• Reimbursement Details: Check whether you’ll get reimbursed from the first dollar or if you’ll need to pay a deductible first. This can make a big difference in your out-of-pocket costs.
• Triggering Events: Some policies only kick in when a watch or warning is issued for your area. Be clear on the specifics. 

» MORE: Does Boat Insurance Cover Hurricanes?

How to Use Hurricane Haul Out Coverage

When it comes to Hurricane Haul Out Coverage, timing is everything. The sooner you act, the better your chances of securing a spot to haul out your boat. 

To Use Hurricane Haul Out Coverage:

1. Contact Your Insurer: As soon as a named storm is forecasted, reach out to your insurance provider. Let them know that you plan to use your coverage. They’ll explain any specific steps you need to take.
2. Arrange for the Haul-Out: Once you’ve spoken with your insurer, arrange to have your boat hauled out of the water and moved to a secure location. It’s a good idea to have a plan in place with a local marina or boatyard ahead of time.
3. Document Everything: Keep receipts for transportation, storage, and any other expenses related to the haul-out. It’s also a good idea to take photos of your boat before and after the haul-out to document its condition.
4. Submit a Claim: After the storm has passed, submit a claim to your insurer for reimbursement. 

Common Pitfalls:

• Waiting Too Long: One of the biggest mistakes boat owners make is waiting until the last minute to arrange a haul-out. This can lead to limited availability and higher prices, not to mention added stress.
• Not Understanding Coverage Details: Make sure you’re clear on what your policy covers and under what conditions. Some boat owners assume they’re fully covered, only to find out later that certain costs weren’t included or that a deductible applies.
• Lack of Documentation: Failing to keep thorough records can lead to delays in reimbursement. That’s why it’s important to document every step of the haul-out process.

How Much Does Hurricane Haul Out Coverage Typically Cost?

The cost of Hurricane Haul Out Coverage can vary depending on a few things.

Some Factors That Influence Cost:

• Size of the Boat: Larger boats generally cost more to haul out, which can increase the premium for this coverage. 
• Location: Where you’re located can play a big role in the cost. If you’re in a high-risk area, like the Gulf Coast or the Southeastern U.S., expect to pay more for coverage due to the increased likelihood of storms.
• Specific Terms of Coverage: The scope of what’s covered—such as transport, storage, and associated fees—can also affect pricing.

Is It Worth It?

Hauling out a boat ahead of a storm can cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on your location and the size of your boat. Without coverage, these costs are entirely out of pocket. With coverage, a big portion of these expenses can be reimbursed. 

The investment in this coverage can also protect your boat from potentially catastrophic damage. Securing your boat in advance out of harm’s way may not only reduce your protection expenses but also potentially save you thousands in repair or replacement costs if your boat were to be damaged or destroyed during a storm. 

In most cases, the benefits far outweigh the costs, especially for boat owners in hurricane-prone areas. It’s an investment in both your financial security and the long-term safety of your vessel.

How to Get Hurricane Haul Out Coverage

At SkiSafe, it’s easy to change or add coverage to your policy. You can do it directly through our website and it should only take a few minutes. If you prefer to speak to an underwriter before making any changes, they would be happy to assist by phone or email. 

• Phone Number: (800) 225-6560
• Email Address: customer@skisafe.com