BOATER SAFETY

King tide safety guidance

Prepare your vessel and dock for unusually high tides. Know what to check, when to check it, and where to find reliable local predictions.

Check NOAA tide predictions Alert preferences

Prepare in advance

Four essential safety checks

These are general precautions, not instructions tailored to a particular vessel, dock, or marina.

  1. 01

    Inspect fender placement and clearance

    At unusually high water levels, a boat can rise above the protection of fenders positioned for normal tides. Check whether additional protection or repositioning is appropriate for your vessel and dock.

  2. 02

    Check mooring lines and dock attachments

    Allow for the full expected range of water-level changes while keeping the vessel safely secured. If you are unsure about line length or arrangement, consult a qualified marine professional.

  3. 03

    Review the forecast again before arrival

    Wind, rain, and atmospheric pressure may raise or lower actual water levels compared with tide predictions. Monitor local conditions, not only the calendar.

  4. 04

    Avoid hazardous docks and equipment

    Do not enter flooded or electrically unsafe dock areas. Check with the property owner or marina about local access conditions and restrictions.