Saoirse Downs
Hurricane season is a hazardous time for sailors, but it is possible to go sailing with the right preparation, technology, and location. For those looking to avoid the worst of the weather, there are several options. One strategy is to haul out, removing boats from the water and storing them on land. Another is to find a “hurricane hole”, sheltered bays, mangroves, or inlets that offer natural protection from storm surges and high winds. Those looking for more sailing freedom can head north or south to areas like the Great Lakes, the Pacific Coast, Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, or Grenada, which are located outside the typical hurricane belt.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hurricane season in the Caribbean | June 1st to November 30th |
| Hurricane survival plan | Haul Out, Find a Hurricane Hole |
| Hurricane Hole | Sheltered bays, mangroves, or inlets |
| Insurance | Hull coverage, liability insurance |
| Weather forecasting | NOAA over SSB, Explorer chart books |
| Hurricane preparation | Remove boats from water, store on land, seal openings |
| Hurricane-prone areas | Caribbean, Bahamas, Southeast coast of the USA |
| Hurricane-free areas | Trinidad, Grenada, New England, Maine |
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What You'll Learn
Sail to Grenada, Trinidad, Colombia, Panama or Aruba
If you're looking for places to sail to during hurricane season, here are some options:
Grenada
Grenada is a popular destination for sailing during hurricane season. Located in the southern Caribbean, it is considered a safe haven, as it lies outside the typical "hurricane box" defined by insurance policies. Grenada has only been struck by a hurricane four times in the past 100 years. The island offers ample anchorages, boat storage, facilities, and a vibrant community. Bays that offer the most protection include Mt Hartman Bay, Hog Island, Clarke's Court, and Port Egmont. Prickly Bay, located on the southern end of the island, is a popular spot for cruising families and has a wonderful community atmosphere. Grenada also has an active VHF children's net, learn-to-sail classes, and regular movie nights, making it an ideal destination for families with children.
Trinidad
Trinidad lies south of the normal hurricane paths and is generally considered a safe location for sailing during hurricane season. It is easily accessible from Grenada, with many cruisers making the overnight sail between the two islands. Trinidad experiences tropical waves during the peak of hurricane season, and squalls are a common occurrence. When planning your trip to Trinidad, it is important to monitor weather forecasts and utilize available resources, such as surface prognostic charts, forecast charts, and GRIB information.
Colombia
While I found no specific information on sailing to Colombia during hurricane season, it is worth noting that the Caribbean is generally affected by hurricane season, which typically runs from June 1st to November 30th. During this time, sailors must stay alert and have a hurricane survival plan in place.
Panama
Panama is another option for sailing during hurricane season. There are several marinas in Panama that offer protection and security for your boat. Some popular marinas include Panamarina, Linton Bay Marina, Shelter Bay Marina, Bocas Marina, Red Frog Marina, Marina Carenero, and Marina Solarte. These marinas provide reasonable prices and additional services, such as boat maintenance and liveaboard communities.
Aruba
Aruba is an excellent choice for sailing during hurricane season as it sits significantly south of the hurricane belt, making direct hits from hurricanes very rare. Aruba is one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), which are known for their relatively safe sailing conditions during hurricane season. Aruba is a popular diving site and offers a vibrant cruising lifestyle.
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Find a hurricane hole
A hurricane hole is a natural refuge where boats can be docked and protected from the elements of a hurricane. They are typically found in bays and lagoon-like areas with shallow water, where trees, mountains, and natural barriers break down the wind and minimise the risk of damage. The age of the hurricane hole can determine the level of risk, as older hurricane holes may have lost their effectiveness due to modernisation and construction in the area.
When looking for a hurricane hole, it is important to consider the inlet and the direction it faces. Inlets that face the gulf or the north are ideal, as they minimise the risk of rising water and waves. The depth of your boat is also a factor, as you need to consider sandbars, rocks, and other debris that can be affected by water depth.
Some popular hurricane holes in the Caribbean include Ensenada Honda (Culebra), Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda), Simpson Bay (St. Martin), English Harbour (Antigua), the north-coast rivers on Terre Haute and Terre Basse (Guadeloupe), and Marigot Bay (St. Lucia). However, as noted by Don Street, these hurricane holes can become too crowded, which can put your boat and life at risk.
To find a suitable hurricane hole, it is recommended to use guidebooks such as Steve Pavlidis' guides and Explorer chart books. It is also important to have a hurricane survival plan and check weather forecasts regularly during hurricane season, which typically runs from June 1st to November 30th in the Caribbean.
If you are unable to find a suitable hurricane hole, an alternative option is to haul out your boat and store it safely on land. This option is more secure but also more expensive, and it is typically chosen by sailors who do not plan to use their boat during the season.
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Haul out
Hauling out is a common strategy for sailors during hurricane season. This involves removing boats from the water and storing them safely on land. While this option can be expensive, it is often the most secure way to protect a vessel from damage during a hurricane.
There are several ways to haul out a boat to prepare for a hurricane. One method is to use straps to secure the boat, preventing it from toppling over or floating away. It is also essential to consider the location of the boat during the hurricane. High winds can cause significant damage, so it is crucial to find a sheltered area with tall breakwaters and sturdy bulkheads.
Some marinas and yacht clubs have evacuation plans that involve hauling as many boats out of the water as possible. They may also have comprehensive hurricane plans that outline the procedures for securing boats properly. Slipholders may be required to sign a pledge to secure their boats, whether on land or in the water, to prevent damage to other vessels.
Boat owners can also consider purchasing marine insurance that includes named-storm haul-out coverage. This type of insurance can reimburse a portion of the costs incurred to professionally haul or protect a boat in anticipation of a named storm.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some sailors choose to sail during hurricane season, opting for locations like Grenada, which is less likely to experience hurricanes and allows for continued sailing. These sailors develop hurricane survival plans and closely monitor weather forecasts to ensure their safety.
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Sail to the Marquesas or Fiji
If you're looking for a sailing destination during hurricane season, the Marquesas and Fiji are two options to consider.
The Marquesas
The Marquesas are located in the South Pacific, outside the cyclone zone. This means the risk of a cyclone is generally considered nil. However, it's important to note that during the El Nino episode of 1982-83, tropical depressions formed just north of the Marquesas, causing some rain damage to the archipelago. The Marquesas offer a large number of protected anchorages, especially on the north coast, due to their steep relief. The main risk factor when sailing to the Marquesas is swell and poor anchoring due to the steep seabed and lack of a reef barrier. A dry dock and yard have recently been opened at Hiva Oa, providing additional protection and storage options.
Fiji
Fiji is another potential destination during hurricane season, located in the South Pacific archipelago of Polynesia. While Fiji was hit hard by a cyclone in 2015, it is generally considered a safer option than other islands in the region. Cruisers often sail down from Tonga or Fiji to New Zealand for the cyclone season, which typically runs from November through April. Fiji offers "cyclone moorings" in Savusavu, although these have been questioned in terms of safety.
When sailing during hurricane or cyclone season, it is crucial to stay informed about weather patterns and forecasts. Having a hurricane survival plan and checking weather reports consistently can help ensure a safer journey. Additionally, considering insurance options and finding coverage that fits your specific needs is essential.
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Sail to Maine, USA
Hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th, is a daunting time for sailors. However, with the right preparation and a good hurricane survival plan, it is possible to go sailing during this time.
If you're looking for a place to sail during hurricane season, consider sailing to Maine in the USA. The state of Maine, which borders Canada, is a popular cruising ground on the US East Coast, made up of over 4,000 islands. It offers a unique sailing experience, with the opportunity to explore both remote anchorages and vibrant cities.
One of the advantages of sailing in Maine is the ease of finding anchorages. With multiple directions of protection within a few miles, you can quickly move from a remote anchorage to a city, enjoying arts, events, good food, friendly people, and good wifi. Additionally, Maine has many marina options, a strong liveaboard community, and excellent marine services, including boatyards for boat storage.
For those seeking a more remote experience, Hurricane Island in Maine offers a unique sailing and educational opportunity. The island is home to an experimental aquaculture farm that studies sea scallops, oysters, and kelp. Visitors can explore the island, meet the research team, and learn about sustainable practices that keep the island running. The sail back to Rockland across Penobscot Bay offers the perfect sailing breeze and the chance to enjoy locally farmed oysters and other local snacks.
Remember, sailing during hurricane season requires vigilance and a good understanding of weather forecasts. It is always essential to prioritize your safety and have a plan to deal with any potential hurricanes or storms.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several options for sailing during hurricane season. Some popular destinations include the ABC islands (Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire), Trinidad, and Grenada. In the Pacific, the Marquesas are outside the cyclone belt, and Fiji is another option.
It is important to stay alert and informed about weather forecasts and have a hurricane survival plan. Some cruisers choose to haul out their boats and store them safely on land during hurricane season. Others find hurricane holes, which are sheltered bays, mangroves, or inlets. It is also important to consider insurance, as some plans have specific areas and dates that are not covered during hurricane season.
Some sailors choose to leave the hurricane zone entirely and sail to the east coast of the USA, specifically Maine, or New England if you don't want to travel as far north. These areas offer unique cruising grounds with over 4,000 islands and friendly towns.
