Tips for Reducing Boating Theft

Florida is the number one state for boating theft due to its year round boating and large coastal area. The City of Belleair Beach has a marina located at the northernmost boundary of the City.

Below you will find a number of tips for reducing boating theft. Should you have any additional questions on how to reduce boating related theft. Should you desire additional information, please contact the Police Department during working hours.

On the Boat

Engrave all valuables including electronic equipment, outboard engines, radios, loose gear, etc. with the owner's name, home port, state driver's license or identification number, and the boat's hull identification number.

Install dead bolt locks on all doors and secure ports and windows with inside auxiliary locks.

Attach inverted, strong hasps and padlocks to all hatches and secure lockers with non-removable hasps and hinges and lock with strong padlocks.

Remove all portable valuables and your vessel, thereby eliminating possible targets of the thief. Don't leave radios, binoculars, cameras, or laptops on board.

Maintain an inventory list ashore that includes all boat gear, with the name, model, serial number, manufacturer, and description of each item. digital images or photos of your gear could also go into this file.

Never leave keys aboard a boat, even in a "hidden place". Any seasoned burglar knows all the spots to look.

Don't leave ownership papers on board the boat.

At the Marina

Locked gates and other barriers to both pedestrian and vehicle traffic should be kept closed

Boat owners should get acquainted with their dockside neighbors and report suspicious visitors and activities. In an emergency, please contact 911 for all other issues please contact the City Police Department at 727-595-4646 during office hours (8:30 am - 4:30 pm).

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