How many hours did you spend deciding which boat was "the one?" Weeks and months, reading brochures and reviews, checking online user groups, comparing specs and going on sea trials. The National Marine Manufacturers' Association says it generally takes about three years to go from interest in buying a boat to the moment of purchase.

Now answer this: How much time and energy did you devote to picking a marina? For boat owners who live and play in areas prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, the truth is that the time spent "shopping" may not be enough.

One thing that is apparent here at the Hurricane Symposium, which is held for marina owners, is that some marinas are better prepared than others to weather bad storms and protect your boat.

As a prospective member of a yacht club or marina, ask tough questions. Ask for a copy of the hurricane plan. Ask if they've used it and changed anything based on experience. Ask if boat owners were involved in the planning.

Read the contract and slip agreement, which should spell out the responsibilities of boat owners and the responsibilities of the facility. Ask how high the storm surge has been. What about the pilings? Are they new? Wood, concrete or steel? If they are far apart, the stress on the docks will be greater. If they are steel, they won't snap but you'll probably pay more for membership because steel pilings cost a bundle. How deep are they sunk?

Some marinas require boat owners to pay for one hurricane haul-out up front every season. Others have optional clubs where members, for a fee, get priority treatment. Depending on the state – or country – and liability issues, some facilities will tie boats down ashore. Others won't but will provide equipment for owners to do it themselves.

Buying a boat is a big decision. But deciding where to keep it can have even bigger consequences.