Guides
The insurance decision
If a berth dries or the yacht regularly takes the ground, describe that fact explicitly. Identify the vessel configuration and the normal berthing arrangement using appropriate records. This guide does not establish that a particular yacht or seabed is suitable for drying out; obtain qualified advice where needed.
What to clarify before relying on cover
Ask how the insurer treats planned drying at the declared berth compared with accidental grounding elsewhere. A general grounding clause should not be assumed to approve routine use of any drying location. Keep written acceptance tied to the actual site and boat.
Practical preparation
Use a clear description of what normally happens at the berth rather than a vague phrase such as sheltered water. If the yacht routinely rests on the bottom, state that. Obtain appropriate technical and insurance advice for the actual boat and location rather than assuming the previous berth occupant is a valid comparison.
- Normal tidal berth behaviour
- Vessel suitability evidence
- Site-specific insurance acceptance
Worked example
A buyer intends to use a tidal berth previously occupied by a different yacht. The submission describes the new vessel and berth rather than relying on the previous owner's insurance experience.
Put the decision in context
A location description should explain how the yacht is kept, who has custody and who can respond to a problem. Keep permission to use a facility separate from physical suitability and insurer acceptance. Review any contract obligations instead of assuming a contractor’s insurance replaces the yacht policy. When dates, locations or inspection arrangements change, record the revised facts and obtain any required confirmation. Do not present a planned inspection as one already completed.
Continue with Yacht Berth, Mooring and Storage Insurance Guides for related decisions, or use the yacht insurance guide library to find another topic.
Prepare a clear insurance enquiry
Record the facts you can support, the evidence still missing and the precise decision you need. Keep the response beside the relevant policy document.
Frequently asked questions
Does grounding cover authorise routine drying out?
No such conclusion follows automatically. Explain the planned arrangement and ask the insurer how the policy applies to it.
Does a marina or yard accepting my booking prove the yacht is insured there?
No. Facility permission and policy acceptance come from different parties. Check the declared location, activity, custody period and any relevant conditions with the insurer.
Sources and limits
The official links below provide policy or manufacturer context. The preparation notes and scenarios are editorial guidance, not quotations from those sources. No model specification establishes insurance cover; check the documents applying to your own circumstances.
Related guides
- Yacht Berth, Mooring and Storage Insurance Guides
- Marina Berth Boat Insurance Australia
- Swing Mooring Boat Insurance Australia
- Hardstand and Dry Storage Boat Insurance
- Boat Insurance Requirements Finder Australia