Gales have relentlessly battered the coast of Britain over the weekend, and are in no hurry to give way to anything better. We’re in for more of the same over the next few days at least, as series of low-pressure systems move in from the west.

Marina operators have been making frequent checks of lines and boats in an effort to minimise damage, however many report “all-clear”, with the only excitement coming from torn deck-cleats and broken lines. Haslar Marina in Portsmouth noted, “We have stepped-up the frequency of the boat checks, and been fortunate so far,” but added, “though we lost a marquee!”

The best advice is to double up your lines and fenders, spreading the load between your deck fittings, and secure halyards and lose dinghies. Also, to reduce windage by folding down spray hoods, lowering and securing booms to the deck and finally, ensure cockpit drains are clear.

If you want to keep an eye on the boat from home, you could take out a subscription to our weather cam service which has cameras located in marinas and on yacht clubs around the coast. For our weather cams and free weather and tides service click here