Harbor Master

Hurricane season usually lasts from mid-August through October. Beside high winds, you can expect higher than normal tidal conditions, rough seas in protected areas, and a tidal surge of 10' or greater.

Vessels moored in high energy areas such as Lewis Bay and Hyannisport will lose the protection of the breakwater which will be submerged at high tide.

Plan ahead and be prepared. Make storm plans with your boatyard, yacht club or mooring contractor enabling them to do one or more of the following in the event of a storm: haul your vessel, add lines, increase mooring scope, place storm anchors, move your vessel to a more protected area, etc.

Get your boat out of the water if at all possible and place well above high water taking into account extreme tidal conditions and storm surge. Remember haul out areas and ramps will be extremely busy.

If you can't haul your vessel:

A. You should remove from your boat:

1. All sails, roller furling, etc.

2. All dodgers, biminis and enclosures

3. Antennas and electronics

4. All non-permanent equipment (deck chairs,rafts, boxes)

5. Ship's papers and valuables

6. Portable fuel tanks (gas, propane)

B. Pump excess water from bilges and drain water tank.

C. Make sure batteries are charged, pump switches and intakes aren't jammed and working freely.

D. Secure windows, hatches, seacocks, and fuel lines to engines and cooking appliances. Make your boat as watertight as possible.

E. Check chafing gear.

Once your boat is secured, leave. Never stay with your boat during the storm.

Pumpout Information

The Harbormaster Division requests your assistance in enhancing water quality and protecting our natural resources. All boaters with marine sanitation devices on board are encouraged to use pumpout facilities to purge their holding tanks. The Town of Barnstable will maintain a pumpout station at the town marina in Barnstable Harbor and a pumpout boat to provide service to the three bay area of Osterville/Cotuit/Marstons Mills and the Centerville River. Several private marinas also provide for this service. Boaters may obtain information on boat pumpouts and marine wastes by contacting the Harbormaster Division at (508) 790-6273