Typhoon Guidelines for Boat Owners

With Typhoons being a regular occurrence in Hong Kong, boat owners should consider a few simple measures to minimize storm damage to their boats whether they are on a mooring, marina berth or even in a boat rack on the hardstand.

• Make sure that your Hong Kong Marine Department pleasure vessel license is up to date as an expired license will automatically invalidate your insurance.
• Ensure roller furling headsails, mainsails, boat & sail covers, biminis and canvas awnings are removed and stored below decks.
• Check mooring lines and bridles for chafe or UV damage, if in doubt replace. Fit chafe protection where lines cross over the deck or through chocks.
• Never use chain or low stretch nylon to connect to the mooring buoy.
• If the anchor is on a bow roller, make sure that the mooring lines cannot chafe against it, if it does chafe, remove the anchor.
• Check the shackle from the mooring bridle to the swivel is in good condition and rotating freely, if not contact HHYC Marine Department and have it replaced.
• Fit a second set of lines as a back up and anchored to an alternative strong point on the deck. Never secure this to a deck stepped mast or any standard rigging. Primary winches should be considered as anchor points.
• Ensure the helm is securely lashed amidships.
• Make sure all hatches and lockers are secured and no loose gear is left on deck.
• Clear all your cockpit drains and check all auto bilge pumps are working.
• Ensure your batteries are fully charged.
• Remember that whilst we try to keep the Club Sampans running for as long as possible, the service may be stopped at short notice in the event of severe weather.
• Keep your eye on the weather forecast and try to make your preparations early. Do not wait till the last moment.

The following are links recommended for updated information on the movement of Typhoons:

http://www.weather.org.hk/english/index.html

https://www.hko.gov.hk/en/informtc/tcMain.htm