Securing Your Boat: Locking To The Dock, Necessary?

Boat theft is less common than auto theft, but it does happen. In fact, statistics show that only one in ten stolen boats are ever recovered. So, it is important to take precautions to secure your boat, especially if it is docked or moored. While there is no surefire way to prevent theft, there are several measures you can take to deter potential thieves and protect your boat.

One simple way to secure your boat is to use adequate locks. Keep the cabin, door, and windows locked securely whenever your boat is not in use. Consider replacing manufacturer locks with more robust ones that cannot be easily picked or tampered with. Additionally, check the security of the moorings and replace any worn ropes. You can also install an alarm system on your boat, which will draw attention to any unwanted presence and alert you in time to take action.

Another way to secure your boat is to disable it when not in use. For motorized boats, you can remove the battery or shut off the fuel lines. If your boat is powered by wind, you can take down the sails and store them elsewhere. You can also secure your boat's trailer with a wheel lock and a hitch lock, or even remove a wheel from the trailer if you plan to be away for an extended period.

Investing in a quality boat lift is another effective security measure. A boat lift elevates your vessel above the waterline, making it more challenging for thieves to access. Additionally, it helps protect the hull from wear and tear caused by hull blisters, accidental impacts, and marine life. Remember to turn off the power to the lift and lock the control and breaker boxes when your boat is not in use.

Taking precautions such as locking your boat, securing the trailer, and installing an alarm system can significantly deter potential thieves. However, if someone is determined to steal your boat, they may still find a way. In such cases, having comprehensive insurance coverage can provide financial protection and peace of mind.

The importance of locking your boat to the dock

Locking your boat to the dock is an essential step in ensuring its security and deterring potential thieves. While boat theft may be less common than auto theft, only about 1 in 10 stolen boats are ever recovered, making it a harsh blow to your finances and pride. Here are several reasons why locking your boat to the dock is crucial:

Protect your investment

By locking your boat securely to the dock, you significantly reduce the risk of theft. Boats are valuable assets, and ensuring their security is vital. A good lock can act as a strong deterrent to potential thieves, making it more difficult for them to tamper with or steal your boat.

Peace of mind

Knowing that your boat is safely locked to the dock can give you peace of mind, especially when you're away from your boat or during the night. You can relax, knowing that your boat is less likely to be an easy target for thieves.

Insurance considerations

In the unfortunate event of theft, having your boat securely locked can help with insurance claims. Taking reasonable security measures, such as locking your boat, may be required by your insurance policy.

Additional security measures

While locking your boat is essential, you can further enhance security by implementing other measures. Consider using adequate locks on the cabin, doors, and windows of your boat whenever it's not in use. Additionally, you can install an alarm system to draw attention to any unwanted presence and alert you in time to take action.

Remember to also secure your boat's trailer, as leaving it unsecured is similar to leaving your car door open with the keys inside. Utilize security lighting at night to deter thieves who prefer working under the cover of darkness.

By following these measures and locking your boat to the dock, you can significantly improve its security and enjoy your boating experiences with greater peace of mind.

How to lock a boat to a dock

Locking your boat to a dock is an important security measure to protect your property. Here are some detailed instructions on how to secure your boat effectively:

Firstly, assess the docking area. If you dock bow-first, look for sturdy poles or cleats on the dock that are within reach of your boat. Consider whether you want to use a chain, cable, or rope to secure your boat. Chains and cables offer more security but can cause damage to your boat if not installed carefully.

If you opt for a chain or cable, choose a suitable length that will reach from the boat to the dock. You can attach an eye or a padlock to one end, which can then be secured to a cleat or lifting ring on your boat. Alternatively, you may use a length of rope with a sturdy knot to secure your boat. Ensure the rope is not worn out and can withstand the weight and movement of your boat.

When securing your boat, it is recommended to lock the bow to the dock, as this is less visible to potential vandals and thieves. However, some boat owners prefer to lock the stern, arguing that it is more convenient and allows them to keep an eye on the security measures.

In addition to locking your boat to the dock, consider implementing other security measures such as installing an alarm system, using security lighting, or even setting up a camera to monitor the area. These measures will help deter potential thieves and vandals, and alert you to any unwanted presence near your boat.

Remember, if someone is determined to steal your boat, they may still find a way. However, by following these steps and combining multiple security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk and deter opportunistic criminals.

The best locks to use

While locking your boat to the dock is a good idea, it's important to remember that if someone is determined to steal it, they will. However, there are several ways to deter thieves and vandals.

Firstly, consider using a galvanized vinyl-coated cable with a padlock. This can be secured to either the bow eye or a stern eye of your boat. Alternatively, a length of chain can be used, although this may cause more damage to your boat. You could also use a heavy-duty motorcycle lock, which is usually vinyl-coated and tough to cut.

Another option is to use a cheap two-wire car alarm with the sensitivity turned down. These can be purchased for around $30 and will alert you if anyone is tampering with your boat.

If you're looking for a more extreme solution, you could consider a hydraulic lift with a switch lock for your boat. This will make it much harder for thieves to access your boat and will provide an extra layer of security.

Remember to keep your boat keys secure and well hidden, and consider removing the battery or shutting off the fuel lines if you won't be using your boat for a while.

• Master Lock Universal Trailer Hitch Lock
• Master Lock Universal Size Fits 1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers - Trailer Locks #389DAT
• Weatherproof Coiled Security Cable Lock with Resettable Combination
• Master Lock Solid Brass Coupler Lock, Gold, 1 Count
• Rhino USA Trailer Hitch Pin - Patented 5/8" Locking Receiver Hitch Pins for Class III IV Hitches
• Whitecap S-0226BC T-Handle Latch with Keyed Lock - Black 3" Diameter

Additional security measures

Locks

It is recommended to use adequate locks on your boat. While boats generally come with manufacturer locks, these may not be robust enough to deter potential thieves. Consider replacing them with more secure locks that cannot be easily picked or tampered with. Keep the keys to these locks on your person or stored away in a safe place, separate from your boat.

Alarms

Installing an alarm system on your boat can also be an effective deterrent. Much like a car alarm, a boat alarm will draw attention to any unwanted presence and alert you, giving you time to respond. Some alarms can even notify you via text message through an app, allowing you to stay informed even when you are miles away from your boat.

Boat Lift

A boat lift is an invaluable security measure. By elevating your boat above the waterline, it becomes more challenging for thieves to steal and also helps protect your boat's hull from wear and tear. Remember to turn off the power to the lift and lock the control and breaker boxes when your boat is not in use.

Immobilization

If you don't plan on using your boat for an extended period, you can disable it. For motorized boats, consider removing the battery or shutting off the fuel lines. If your vessel is wind-powered, you can take down the sails and store them separately.

Lighting

The use of security lighting is another effective deterrent, as thieves typically prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Ensure that you install lights that can shine brightly and be seen from a distance, even dozens of feet away. If you're installing lights on a private dock, opt for colors that can easily cut through the water.

Surveillance

Consider installing surveillance cameras on your boat. Modern cameras often have infrared capabilities for night vision and can notify you via phone when they detect motion. This allows you to monitor your boat remotely and can help identify perpetrators in the event of a theft.

Insurance

While not a security measure per se, ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage for your boat can provide peace of mind. Boat theft is less common than auto theft, but statistics show that only 1 in 10 stolen boats are ever recovered. Having insurance can help mitigate the financial blow and provide some recourse if your boat is stolen.

What to do if your boat gets stolen

Despite your best efforts, sometimes boat theft still occurs. Here are some steps to take if your boat is stolen:

Contact the Authorities

It is important to act quickly and report the theft to the local police department. Provide them with as much information as possible about the boat, including the boat's make, model, colour, and any unique features or markings. You should also inform your insurance company, as they may have specific requirements for filing a claim.

Provide Documentation

Gather all relevant documentation, including proof of ownership, such as the boat's title and registration papers. Also, collect any receipts, invoices, and photographs of the boat. This documentation will be crucial in proving your ownership and facilitating the recovery process.

Utilise Security Measures

If you have installed security measures, such as GPS tracking devices or alarm systems, now is the time to utilise them. Contact the security company and provide them with the necessary information to track your boat's location. If you have a boat lift, check the control box for any signs of tampering.

Notify Marina or Storage Facility

If your boat was stored at a marina or storage facility, inform the management about the theft. They may have surveillance footage or additional security measures in place that could aid in the investigation.

Be Vigilant and Proactive

Keep a close eye on online marketplaces and auction sites for any signs of your boat being sold. Sometimes, thieves will try to sell stolen boats or boat parts quickly. Additionally, spread the word among other boaters and the local boating community to increase the chances of someone spotting your boat.

Preventative Measures for the Future

Once you have gone through the process of dealing with a stolen boat, take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening again. Review and implement the security measures mentioned earlier, such as using locks, installing alarm systems, and marking your boat with its unique identification number.

Frequently asked questions