Marco Island Police Department Marine Unit

The Marco Island Police Department Marine Unit

The Marco Island Police Department is committed to providing a safe environment to the residents and guests of the City of Marco Island. The geography of Marco Island and its water-based activities requires the use of marine law enforcement assets and officers to complete missions and answer calls for service associated with a coastal community.

Free Vessel Security Surveys to Prevent Theft

As boat theft is a growing problem in Southwest Florida boat owners must protect their boating investment and keep an eye out for suspicious behavior around vessels in the area. Boat thieves are attracted to vessels that are easy to access or in a remote location.

If requested, an MIPD officer will come to your home and assess the current security of your vessel and offer suggestions to decrease your chances of becoming a victim of boat theft.

Boater owners can reduce the risk of theft by the following methods include:

• Moving the boat lift’s electrical power shut-off inside your house or garage.
• Securing the boat to the lift.
• Securing the lift to the dock
• Install an alarm system on your dock.
• Install a GPS enable alarm system on your boat.
• Installing covert fuel cut-off or ignition / battery switches.
• Exterior lighting that shines on you vessel and dock.
• Remove the keys from your boat when on the lift.
• Removing all valuables to include GPS, Radar, and Radios.

Boats on trailers have specific vulnerabilities. Use the strongest locks and chains available to secure the boat and trailer. Lock boats or personal watercraft to their trailer. Lock the trailer to something secure or install a hitch lock. Park your trailer nose-in when able.~ Lock outboard motors to the vessel transom. There are specialized products available for this use. Use good, heavy-duty hardware on doors, windows, and portholes. Keep the curtains closed. Store your boat in a protected location at home when able.~Take your keys home with you at the end of the day. Purchase and install an alarm system. Consider hiring a professional boat watching service.

Maintain a contact list of their emergency numbers to ensure they are notified if there is a problem with their vessel.

Marco Island is a boating community, which includes 22 miles of shoreline, six large bays, the Marco River, three creeks, two small islands and 290 canals. It takes an active partnership between neighbors, the community, and law enforcement to stop these thefts. The Island’s unique geography make it imperative that we all help watch over our neighbor’s homes and boats.

If you see or hear something suspicious, contact the City of Marco Island Police Department (239-389-5050) for any reason anytime. 
For emergencies, please dial 911