Why Yacht Captains and Owners Choose Hurricane Hole Marina to Refuel

Yacht captains and owners must plan ahead when choosing the marina to dock on any voyage, including a trip to The Bahamas. This island nation has become a premier yachting destination, with plenty of options for day trips and multi-day voyages to stunning beaches, islands, and towns brimming with an exciting sense of history and unique culture. In addition to choosing a centrally-located marina with the right amenities, nearby shopping and dining options, and on-site concierge services that you and your crew will need during your voyage, you need to know that the marina you pick offers the right yacht fueling services to keep your vessel filled and ready for its next adventure. 

At Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina, fueling a yacht is convenient thanks to our cutting-edge infrastructure, premier fuel dock, and first-in-the-nation option for in-slip fueling. There are many reasons why yacht captains and owners choose Hurricane Hole when planning a trip to The Bahamas. Let’s explore some important things to consider as you look for the best fueling options for your vessel.

Why Should a Boat’s Gas Tank Never Be Completely Filled?

Fueling a yacht or any boat should follow one crucial consideration: It’s important to never fill the fuel tank. Why is this the case? The general rule of thumb suggests only filling a boat or yacht tank to 90% full. As fuel warms, it expands – and a completely full tank won’t leave room for the fuel to expand. If this happens, you can suffer an overflow and cause more problems than you intended. That’s why it’s essential to know your vessel’s tank’s total capacity and ensure you don’t exceed that 90% point.

In addition to following that rule of thumb, BOATERexam.com suggests opening all air vents and valves to the gas tank. After refueling, tightly replace the gas cap to ensure that fuel vapors can’t escape. And don’t forget to wipe up any spills that may happen.

What Is an Important Step in the Fueling Process of a Boat?

When fueling a yacht or boat, you’ll want to ensure you’re following the basic safety tips, whether you opt for Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina’s cutting-edge in-slip fueling option or refuel at our Bahamas fuel dock. BoatUS Foundation suggests the following tips:

• Make sure people are out of the area if they’re directly involved in the refueling.
• Extinguish any smoking materials and ensure your yacht is secured to the dock. Don’t smoke during any part of this process.
• Turn off the engine and electronics.
• Prevent static electricity buildup that can lead to sparking by keeping the nozzle in contact with the tank opening.
• Remember to only fill the tank to a maximum of 90%, which leaves room for fuel to expand as it heats up.
• If there are any spills, wipe them up immediately.
• Focus on the task at hand and avoid distractions while you’re fueling.

At What Point Should You Open All Windows and Hatches When Fueling?

Before refueling, it’s important to close all doors, windows, and hatches—this helps prevent fuel fumes from entering the vessel. Don’t forget to open all air vents and valves to the gas tank. Once the fueling is completed and the gas cap is tightly replaced, you’ll want to walk around and sniff the area to see if you detect any fumes. If you do, wait until the fumes have dissipated and try to increase air circulation in the area before you restart the engine. 

Now that the tank is filled, reopen all of your vessel’s windows, hatches, and doors. This will help the air circulate through your yacht or boat and dissipate any lingering fuel vapors.

How Do You Refuel a Yacht?

At Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina, fueling a yacht can be more convenient than ever, thanks to the availability of in-slip fueling for yachts and superyachts. It’s a first-in-the-nation feature at our deep-water marina that gives yacht captains and operators an unprecedented level of convenience. Because of our intentionally designed infrastructure, our ability to offer in-slip fueling means that vessels can refuel without leaving their slips or docks. There’s no need for yacht captains to wait in line at a fuel dock or monitor the fuel delivery, and no need to maneuver a large vessel to a fuel dock. There are a few in-slip fueling requirements to keep in mind:

• We require at least 48 hours notice.
• Only diesel is available for in-slip fueling, with a minimum order of 1,500 gallons.
• In-slip fueling is available Monday through Friday.
• This premium service carries a convenience charge of $0.10 per gallon.

While in-slip fueling is convenient, we know that it isn’t for every guest at Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina. That’s why we also offer refueling services at our Bahamas fuel dock. The fuel dock, located between the two Paradise Island bridges, requires no minimum purchase, and both gas and diesel are available. Our fuel dock is staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, and our team monitors VHF channels 16 and 11 to communicate with yachters and assist as needed.

Fueling a Yacht Is Easier at Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina

There are many reasons why yachters choose Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina in The Bahamas. We have a growing number of stores, restaurants, and medical services located right at our marina on safe and sound Paradise Island. We’re just across the water from the bustling city of Nassau and conveniently located for any Bahamas yachting trip. We’re proud to offer premier on-site concierge services to make your trip easier and better than ever. In addition, our options for fueling a yacht—including in-slip fueling and a publicly available fuel dock—make keeping your fuel tank full even easier than ever. Our marina also offers 24-hour security, Internet access, and many other features that make us the best marina in The Bahamas for yachts and superyachts of all sizes.

So, what are you waiting for? Learn more about our slip options and book your slip at Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina today. Call our team at 242-603-1950 and start planning the most convenient and amenity-rich stay in The Bahamas possible for yacht captains and crew members.

External Sources

• BOATERexam.com – Boat Fueling Requirements & Safety
• BoatUS Foundation – Fueling Tips.