Practical guide
What To Do When Your Boat Is Sinking
A fast, practical checklist for Southwest Florida boat owners when a boat is taking on water, partially submerged, or sinking at a dock.
1. Keep people away from unsafe edges and power
Do not step onto an unstable boat, wet dock, or energized area. If shore power, batteries, fuel, or water intrusion are involved, keep people back until the scene is safe.
2. Call or text immediately
Send the vessel location, photos, water level, whether the boat is still taking on water, and whether anyone is on site. Faster triage helps choose pumps, lines, tow options, or haul-out planning.
3. Photograph the boat before moving anything
If safe, take wide photos of the dock or marina, close photos of the water level, the registration number, engine area, batteries, fuel sheen, hull damage, and any lift or dock damage.
4. Avoid forcing the boat or running the engines
Trying to run engines or pull the boat without a plan can worsen hull, electrical, lower unit, or environmental damage. Recovery should be controlled and documented.
5. Start a claim file early
If insurance may be involved, save photos, videos, timestamps, invoices, service notes, marina messages, and recovery updates in one place.