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Marine
Insurance
Independent service from your local insurance specialists
Having the right insurance is essential for protecting yourself, your vessels and others, whether you’re bobbing along in a rubber dinghy or cruising around in a superyacht. Although marine insurance isn’t a legal requirement in the UK, marinas and harbours can insist on a minimum third-party liability cover, and, if you plan to take your boat across the Channel, marine insurance becomes a legal necessity.
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Contact us to get your Marine insurance quote
What is Marine Insurance?
Marine insurance is a type of cover that protects boats and other watercraft from physical loss or damage. It can also cover injuries to you or others, as well as third-party damage if your vessel causes harm to another person or property
Expert Support When You Need It
With 22 years of marine insurance experience, Malcolm Skinner from Coversure Herne Bay, is on hand to provide expert guidance and support. Starting his work in marine insurance in Spain, he has experience in Europe, North America, the Caribbean and Australasia. Malcolm started his career as an insurance agent in the marine industry and later moved on to become an underwriter for marine insurance. He now lives back in his hometown of Herne Bay, helping other sea-loving individuals, get the protection they need, for the things that matter most to them. With his extensive network of marine insurance contacts, in the event of a claim, he is on hand to provide you with assistance, ensuring a smooth claims process.
Cover For All Types of Boats
No matter what type of vessel you own, we can help you find the right insurance:
- Sailing Yachts & Motorboats (protection for leisure and professional use)
- Charter Boats (fishing charters, day trip vessels and commercial operators)
- Dinghies & Small Crafts
- Riverboats & Ocean-going Vessels
What does Marine Insurance cover?
We can help you find personalised marine insurance policies including:
Personal Accident Cover
(provides financial support if you suffer an injury while on your boat)
Contents Cover
(safeguards your personal belongings on board)
Outboard Engine
(ensures your engine is protected from loss or damage)
Third Party Liability
(essential for marina requirements and legal compliance abroad)
Are there any additional requirements to have Marine Insurance?
You will be asked to provide detailed information about the vessel you are arranging marine insurance for. This will include the vessel name, registration number, type, age and condition. You may also be required to provide information regarding any previous claims, safety features and any modifications or upgrades.
Common Exclusions include:
- Wear and tear of the boat or its contents from normal use like fading, corrosion or rot
- Marine life damage i.e. damage caused by sharks, whales, barnacles and other marine organisms
- Infestations from insects, animals or mould
- Mechanical breakdown due to faulty maintenance or improper use (some policies will add this for an additional premium)
- Consequential loss, damage that occurs as a result of a covered loss but not directly caused by it i.e. loss of fishing gear after the boat sinks.
- Acts of war, terrorism or seizure by authorities
- Damage from nuclear events
- Damage incurred while using the boat for illegal purposes
- Damage resulting from the boat not being sea-worthy due to not being properly maintained and in a condition unsuitable to its intended use
- Named storms/hurricanes may have specific exclusions, restrictions or excesses
- Damage caused by someone not authorised to operate the boat or operating under the influence.
The best way to find out how much protection you need is to contact your local Coversure. They’ll be able to advise you as to what you need and create a package of Marine cover for you.
Marine Insurance FAQ
Is marine insurance a legal requirement?
Marine insurance is not a legal requirement in the UK. However, many marinas and harbours insist on a minimum third-party liability cover of £2 – £3 million before allowing you to dock. If you plan to take your boat overseas, marine insurance is legally required in many countries, including France once you cross the channel.
What does third-party liability cover?
Third-party liability insurance protects you if your boat causes damage to another vessel, property, or person. It can help to cover the cost of repairs, medical expenses, or legal fees resulting from an incident.
Can I insure my boat if it’s kept in storage for part of the year?
Yes, we can help you find policies that provide year-round protection, even if your boat is stored out of water for winter.
Am I covered if I let friends or family borrow my boat?
Some policies allow for occasional use by others, but it’s important to check whether your insurance includes guest skipper cover. If you regularly let others use your boat, you may need to add additional cover.
Does marine insurance cover towing my boat by road?
Typically, marine insurance only covers your boat in the water and any damage sustained while being transported might not be included. You may need separate trailer transport insurance for protection whilst towing, this is something we can help you with.
Need a Marine Insurance quote?
If you’d like a Marine Insurance quote from Coversure, please contact your local Coversure office or start your quote here. Our independent brokers will search their markets to find you the right policy at the right price to keep your business protected.
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* Policy information is correct at the time of writing. Policy details, limits, and exclusions are subject to insurer’ changes. When taking out a policy, your local Coversure office will be able to advise you of the specifics of your cover.
