I live in Gulfport and keep my boat in Gulfport's Bert Jones Yacht Basin.
In is on the Mississippi Sound. For hurricanes we move the boat to the
rivers and back bays for protection. This occurs about every 2 to 3 years
with a actual hurricane hitting us about every 8 to 10 years. Most
hurricanes are near misses. There are a few marina's that one may consider
more safe located on the back bays etc. However the tidal swing with a
hurricane can be 10 feet plus which would require tying up the boat with
that in mind. No marina's utilize floating docks except for Oak Harbor in
Slidell. I would consider Oak Harbor a reasonable hurricane hole.

Also, slips are somewhat hard to get. There are waiting lists.

While the hurricane season is 6 months long normally August, September,
October (first 1/2) are the real caution months. I have hurricane email
alerts sent to be to keep up to date and normally have days to get ready.



"Steve" wrote in message
...
Thanks for all the helpful responses here and in private emails.

If I take up full retirement in Gulfport MS, I have to have a marina where
I
can leave my boat with confidence since I will be doing other travel, well
outside of the area.. (summer home in Pac. NW., Family scattered all over
US).

It is my understanding that I can find such moorage (cheap) by going
inland
via the back waters and that should be safe from the hurricanes for an
unattended boat.

I have always 'looked down' on boat owners who neglect their boats between
sailing seasons, but now I may be one of them.

I still have a few more years of cruising in the Pac NW, Mex. and Central
America. From there I have never made any specific crusing plans.

I recently found that I could live very cheaply/comfortably at the Armed
Forces Retirement Home in Gulfport and still have my independence to do
what
ever my age and health would allow.

Thanks again, further comments are still welcome..

Steve
s/v Good Intentions