Guides
The insurance decision
An unattended yacht needs an accurate description of storage and checking arrangements. Record who has agreed to visit, what observations they can reasonably make and how concerns reach the owner. An informal favour should not be described as professional management unless that is the actual arrangement.
What to clarify before relying on cover
Read any policy conditions for unattended periods or lay-up and ask about unclear requirements. Keep visits and findings in a dated log. If access becomes impossible or storage changes, contact the insurer rather than continuing to rely on a plan that is no longer being followed.
Practical preparation
Give the person checking the yacht a clear contact process and a way to record observations. Avoid asking an unqualified helper to certify technical condition. A useful log says what was observed and when, while professional assessments and policy compliance questions remain with the appropriate people.
- Actual inspection arrangement
- Dated visits and findings
- Changes in access or responsibility
Worked example
A neighbour who checks the yacht becomes unavailable. The owner arranges a replacement, records the change and asks about any gap relevant to the policy conditions.
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 a visit log guarantee an unattended-yacht claim will be paid?
No. It is evidence of what occurred, not a substitute for the policy's conditions, cause assessment or other claim requirements.
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