Written and edited by GabrielPowered by YouSail.com.au
Sailboat InsuranceAustralia · Independent guide

Questions to Ask a Boat Insurer or Marine Broker

Questions to Ask a Boat Insurer or Marine Broker. Covers cover and navigation.

By Gabriel1 min readUpdated

Resources

Hull and liability cover questions

  1. Is the vessel insured on agreed value, market value or another basis?
  2. What is the liability limit?
  3. Is salvage and wreck removal inside or outside another limit?
  4. How are tenders, outboards, electronics and personal effects treated?
  5. Are emergency towing costs covered?
  1. What is the exact geographic limit?
  2. Is there a maximum offshore distance?
  3. Do I need approval for Bass Strait, Lord Howe Island or international passages?
  4. What happens if weather forces an unplanned diversion?

Sail and racing cover questions

  1. Is racing covered?
  2. Are spinnakers and sails covered while racing?
  3. Is there a race-distance limit?
  4. Are there rigging age or inspection requirements?

Storage and storm condition questions

  1. Is my marina, swing mooring or home storage acceptable?
  2. Are there cyclone or named-storm preparation conditions?
  3. Is there a separate storm or cyclone excess?
  4. Must the vessel be moved or hauled out during a warning?

Claims handling and settlement questions

  1. Who handles claims?
  2. Can I choose a repairer?
  3. What evidence should I keep now in case of a future claim?
  4. How does the insurer handle hidden damage after grounding or lightning?

Ask for important answers in writing and keep them with the policy documents.

General information onlyThe information on sailboatinsurance.com.au is general educational information only. It may be wrong, incomplete or out of date, and you should not rely on it as a substitute for the current policy documents or professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and is not personal financial product advice. Insurance cover depends on the actual policy wording, Product Disclosure Statement, certificate of insurance, endorsements, exclusions, limits, sub-limits and underwriting decisions that apply to your vessel. Always read the current policy documents before buying, renewing or changing cover. For legal, financial or insurance advice about your own circumstances, consider speaking with an appropriately licensed professional.