Preparing for Hurricane Milton

Preparing for Hurricane Milton takes advance planning since the storm’s severity and track are still unfolding. We are expecting, at this time, significant damage based on our experience with Hurricane Ian two years ago. Strong winds and heavy rains led to the collapse of parts of the marina’s boardwalk requiring dock assessments and repairs afterwards. However, the damage in Fernandina was not as severe as in some other regions of Florida, where Ian caused a storm surge, widespread flooding, and damage to building and infrastructure (Wikipedia)​(104.5 WOKV).

We take proactive measures when preparing for Hurricane Milton, or other storms, such as relocating all three of our boats to the south side of the marina. This is a critical move as the southern side of the marina offers better protection from potential storm surges and higher winds that often-hit exposed areas. During Ian, we actually took the smallest boat out of the water and put her in dry storage, a move we opted not to do for this storm. Additionally, it takes a lot of time for our crews to secure accessories like life jackets, chairs, canopies, and windows. In case of flooding, everything in our office is secured at least a foot above the floor, and electronics are disconnected and many removed from the building entirely. All of this preparation is organized by Amelia River Cruises and Charters owner Captain Kevin McCarthy, and general manager Captain Kyle McCarthy. Their strategic planning includes minimizing damage from flying debris, water intrusion, and tying down loose items. Some items are stowed away using indoor storage, and other things are removed from the boats completely and brought home for safer keeping, including loss by theft should the worst case scenario transpire.

During storms like Hurricane Ian, businesses in Fernandina Beach, including marinas, tour operators, charter fishing, restaurants, outdoor live musicians, putt-putt and standard golf courses, virtually every outdoor activity -experienced significant disruptions. The closure of our company, refunding tickets and rescheduling or cancelling private charters over the next few days will absolutely result in lost revenue. But it in no way compares to the potential loss of revenue from cancellations due to damage, or perhaps costly repairs that would lengthen our absence for our guests and visitors wanting to enjoy cruises, charters, or other marine activities after the storms passing. Preparing for Hurricane Milton for a business like ours, securing the boats and relocating them to a safer side of the marina isn’t just about preventing damage, it is also about ensuring we can operate once the storm passes, reducing downtime, and avoiding costly replacements.

To those not in the water excursion business, it could feel like an overreaction to relocate boats and secure equipment well ahead of a storm like Hurricane Milton, while the weather was still calm and sunny. But it’s always better to err on the side of caution. We truly hope our customers appreciate our preparedness when they’re able to enjoy a cruise right after the storm clears!

Although enduring the short-term loss of business during the storm might seem challenging, ensuring the boats are in good shape to “cruise another day” makes it all worth it in the long run. By taking these precautions, we’re preserving our ability to quickly get our captains back on the water and minimize extended risks that could lead to long-term financial losses.

This focus on preparation ensures that when the skies clear and folks are ready to get back on the water, our boats will be ready too, keeping our business afloat, quite literally!

Categorised in: Hurricanes