Preparing Your Yacht for Hurricane Season - Electronics Edition

Hurricane season in South Florida and the Bahamas is no joke. We all know the drill - secure the lines, strip the canvas, double up the fenders. But here's the part many owners overlook: your yacht's electronics. These systems are critical for safety, communication, and navigation, and they're just as vulnerable as the boat itself. A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs and downtime later.

1. Back Up Your Navigation Data Your plotter, chart system, and route history are worth protecting. Save all waypoints, charts, and routes to both your onboard system and a cloud backup. While you're at it, make sure your navigation software and firmware are fully updated. That way, when you power back up after a storm, you're ready to go.

2. Protect Your Power Systems Battery health is everything during and after a storm. Check your lithium or AGM batteries for proper charge capacity. If your yacht is connected to shore power, consider adding surge protection for sensitive electronics. One power spike can fry thousands of dollars' worth of equipment.

3. Secure Antennas, Domes, and Sensors High winds can turn your radar dome, Starlink dish, or VHF antenna into projectiles. If you're hauling out, remove or lower them. If the boat will stay in the water, inspect and tighten all mounts, and replace corroded hardware now - not when the storm is three days out.

4. Use Remote Monitoring to Stay Informed Systems like Siren Marine or GOST let you check in on your yacht from anywhere. Get instant alerts for bilge pump activity, low battery voltage, high water levels, and even unauthorized entry. When roads are flooded and marinas are closed, that remote access can be a lifesaver.

5. Store Communication Equipment Safely If you use portable Starlink hardware, stow it in a secure, dry location before the storm. Test backup communication gear like handheld VHFs, satellite messengers, or emergency beacons so you know they'll work when you need them.

6. Keep Your Dockmate Ready If your vessel is staying in the water, ensure your Dockmate wireless control system is fully charged and tested. If you need to reposition the boat quickly before the storm, you want to know your controls are ready to respond.

7. Document Everything for Insurance Before the season starts, take clear photos of all electronics installations, record serial numbers, and keep purchase receipts in a safe place. If you ever need to make a claim, this documentation can speed up the process and make it much easier.

Final Word At Marine Professionals Inc., we've prepared hundreds of yachts for South Florida's for Hurricane season. Whether it's surge protection, remote monitoring installation, or securing sensitive electronics, our team can make sure you're ready for whatever the weather brings.

Call MPI today to schedule your Hurricane Season Electronics Checkup and cruise into the season with peace of mind.