September 12, 2025

As the Pacific storm season approaches, yacht owners along the West Coast must take a moment to review and reinforce their yacht insurance coverage. While the Atlantic is often the focus of media attention during hurricane season, the Pacific Ocean brings its own set of risks—from powerful offshore storms to intense low-pressure systems that generate high surf, gusty winds, and coastal flooding. These conditions can cause serious damage to moored yachts and marinas, even when no direct landfall occurs.

Unlike the East Coast, the Pacific sees fewer tropical storms, but that doesn’t mean yacht owners can let their guard down. The storm season in the Pacific Ocean generally runs from May through November, with heightened activity between July and October. During this time, tropical disturbances in the Eastern Pacific can affect waters off Southern California and Baja California, while the Pacific Northwest and Alaska face a barrage of strong gales and rough seas starting as early as October. Even if a storm system stays hundreds of miles offshore, its impact can be felt at harbors and moorings along the coast.

Yacht insurance isn’t just about covering your vessel from collisions or theft—it’s also about ensuring you’re protected against the real threats of storm-related damage. Policies should include hull and machinery coverage, agreed value protection, emergency towing, and liability coverage. Additional considerations include coverage for environmental damage (such as fuel spills), equipment loss, and personal effects onboard.

For those who berth their yachts in California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, or Hawaii, it’s crucial to ensure your insurance policy reflects the regional risks specific to your location. Working with a broker experienced in West Coast marine insurance—like Pacific Ocean Marine Insurance Brokers—means getting guidance tailored to your operations and local weather patterns. We understand the nuances of the Pacific storm season and can help you assess whether your policy has adequate limits, necessary endorsements, and the flexibility to handle unexpected claims.

Before the next front rolls in, take the time to:

• Review your current yacht insurance policy
• Check deductibles and claim limits for storm damage
• Confirm whether your policy includes named-storm or haul-out coverage
• Ensure your marina contract requirements are met

Pacific Ocean Marine Insurance Brokers, Inc. is here to help you stay ahead of the weather. With over 30 years of experience insuring vessels up and down the Pacific Coast, we’re well-equipped to help you protect your investment. Storm season may be unpredictable, but your coverage doesn’t have to be. Reach out today for a policy review and make sure you’re ready for whatever the Pacific has in store.