Phone: +44 (0)20 8943 5333 or click here to email Veronique
BOAT INSURANCE - Frequently Asked Questions
My policy has a cruising range of the Inland Non-tidal Waters of the UK plus 30 days coastal use do we have to inform you when we go coastal?
There is no need to let us know as long as the period doesn’t exceed 30 consecutive days.
How do I increase the total sum insured under my policy?
To increase the total sum insured of your boat underwriters will require a valuation if the increased sum is more that 10%. You may have bought some additional navigation equipment or improved the value of the boat by additional works particularly if the boat is a yacht. Underwriters are less inclined to increase the value of a motor boat due to the increased cost of diesel and depreciation in value. A valuation could be given by a surveyor, boat broker or a boat yard on some occasions. The sum insured should always reflect the current market value of your boat as equipped.
Would another person be insured to use my boat?
Anyone can use your boat with your express permission provided they have the relevant experience and that no money exchanges hands.
Can I transfer my policy to the new owner when I sell my boat?
If you need to cancel your policy you should always email or write to us preferably prior to the cancellation date. Insurance policies are not transferable as the policy details would be incorrect; therefore it’s not possible to pass on your policy to the new owner. We’ll then refund any return premium due less an administration fee of £15. We build our business by referral and are happy to cancel the administration fee if we are introduced to the owner of the boat who proceeds to take out insurance.
How many people can be on the boat policy?
Yes, anyone with a financial interest in the boat can be included on the policy and would be insured for their respective rights and interest. This could apply to a couple or alternatively a boat syndicate with a number of members.
Do you charge me if I amend the policy details?
Unlike many insurance companies Small Boat Insurance don’t normally make a charge for policy amendments other than an increase in any sums insured.
Can I add another boat to my boat insurance policy?
Policies are bespoke for each type of boat, therefore it’s not generally possible to insure more than one boat on each policy. However, tenders are automatically covered within the overall value up to a value of £250 or more if required.
How often should my boat be surveyed?
A small boat insurance policy will not usually require a survey unless the boat is over 40 years old. Once a boat is insured Haven will not normally ever ask for another survey provided there have been no large claims, change of circumstances or change of ownership.
Does my policy cover road transit risks?
Road transit risks are automatically covered for include loss or damage to all boats up to 23ft in length (and trailers) whilst in transit by road within the cruising range of the policy. Third party risks whilst on the road are excluded however, as these must be insured under the vehicle insurance to comply with the Road Traffic Act.
How do I notify a claim under my policy?
If you need to make a claim it’s important to notify us as soon as possible so that a claim form can be completed and submitted. Remember to advise the police to obtain a crime reference number if there has been any theft, malicious damage or vandalism to your boat.
