Ship Meets Hurricane: The Only Right Answer Is Avoidance

Neither Ride It Out Nor Chase It—Get Away

If a ship encounters a hurricane, the only prudent action is to avoid it by altering course and sailing away from the storm's projected path.

Why Not Other Options?

• Heaving to / riding it out: Extreme waves (15+ m), winds >120 kt, chaotic seas—modern ships still risk structural failure, cargo loss, capsize.
• Running before the storm: Only if you're faster than the system (rare) and have sea room. Dangerous if you misjudge track.

Standard Protocol

1. Monitor NHC/JTWC advisories, onboard weather routing.
2. Calculate CPA (Closest Point of Approach).
3. Execute avoidance maneuver early—180° from dangerous semicircle (right side in NH).
4. Increase speed if safe; seek shelter only if port is reachable *before* gale-force winds.

Technology Helps

Satellite weather, AIS, dynamic routing software (StormGeo, DTN) give days of lead time. No excuse for surprise.

Seamanship = knowing when to run.