Nearly a year after a series of hurricanes battered the Tampa Bay area, the city of Gulfport is still grappling with the aftermath. Hundreds of boats were wrecked or washed ashore, and while significant progress has been made in cleanup efforts, the scars remain—both environmental and financial.

Gulfport has removed over 50 derelict vessels from Boca Ciega Bay, yet six boats still sit along the coast, serving as grim reminders of the challenges local authorities face in identifying owners and removing storm-damaged boats.

Special Operations Sgt. Robert Burkhart highlighted the severe environmental and economic toll of the abandoned vessels.

“These boats leaked fuel and oil into our waters and damaged our beaches,” Burkhart said. “Each cleanup cost thousands in city and state funds. We’re still dealing with the consequences.”

He emphasized the importance of evacuation and preparation. “No boat is built to withstand a hurricane. Even the most experienced boater with top-tier equipment can’t outmatch Mother Nature.”

On Thursday, Gulfport’s marine patrol unit canvassed nearly nine miles of coastline in Boca Ciega Bay, issuing safety advisories to about 100 vessels and their operators in anticipation of the upcoming hurricane season. The unit even released marine safety guidelines.

One U.S. Navy veteran, who lives aboard a boat near the Gulfport Municipal Marina, expressed appreciation for the outreach. He recounted how, despite securing his vessel ahead of Hurricane Milton, it sustained damage due to a neighboring boat owner’s lack of preparation—and he suffered a foot injury in the process.

Gulfport police issued similar warnings last year and are doubling down on their message.

“If a storm is coming, get your boat out of the bay,” Burkhart urged. “If that’s not possible, find a safe, sheltered area. Know where the storm is coming from and position yourself between land and the weather.”

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(Image credit: Spectrum News/Erica Riggins)

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