If you're looking for insurance on a larger boat, a yacht policy is
the only way to go. I've recently had the chance to speak with an
admirality lawyer about the finer points of marine insurance at a Sail
and Power Squadron event. I made sure I dug out my policy after that
conversation and went over it with a fine tooth comb. It's pretty
scary what insurance companies pull.

Make sure you get a copy of your actual policy, not just the standard
copy they provide. Many do not actually write the policy until you
make a claim. It is then that they find 'problems' with your
application. You may have a pamphlet they sent you with 'typical'
policy in it, but this is not your actual policy.

Make sure anyone that is going to operate the boat routinely is listed
on the policy. This means the wife, husband, significant other, room
mate, brother, etc. If a claim has to be made and someone else was at
the helm that is not on the policy, the claim can be rejected. A
yacht policy is not like an auto policy. Just because you gave
someone permission to use the boat does NOT mean they are covered by
your insurance. Some policies have clauses the provide for consent of
use, many do not.

Take a boat safety class - many insurance companies offer discounts
for passing a class like this. Contact your local Sail and Power
Squadron or Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla. They should be able to provide
you with a schedule for these classes.

Make sure you read the policy - not all policies are the same. I have
insurance through BoatUS, who use CNA as their underwriters. There
policy is much more comprehensive than any other policy I have found.
It's not the cheapest but covers more. I had bound coverage through
the Sail and Power Squadron's insurance program run through St. Paul.
The premium was about $300 cheaper a year, but the policy was
worthless. A lot of exclusions and a lot of services weren't present
that CNA offers.

Dan Schiro
M/V Sea Ranch

wrote in message
ink.net...
You must have told them your company wouldn't reinsure you...

Nope, I know a little something having been a licensed agent in Ca. They all
asked why I was shopping. I told them that I was new to the state and that
my current insurer couldn't do business there. Trouble is the vast majority
of people in the insurance business have the brains and morality of a shark.

For example, when a man clobbered my near-new Caddie his insurer quickly
agreed to pay to fix my car but when I asked where they'd prefer I rented a
car while that was happening I was told "That's not our policy". I replied
"Fine, I'll rent a Caddie from Hertz and sue your client." they had a change
of heart. Then they tried to badger me into accepting a rent-a-wreck instead
of a comparable car, only relenting when I mentioned my lawyer. Worst of
all most "insurance" people see nothing dishonest about their behavior,
proving something I guess.

And then there's Allstate ....

"santacruz" wrote in message
...
You didn't say where you are. In the US, Boat US is the cheapest I've
found. 52' sloop, $230K hull value for a little over $900 a year. Set
the deductible as high as they'll let you, unless you're planning to
use it. Buy the boat, car and house insurance at the same place for
multiple discounts. I don't think the auto club does 40' but they
might - I know they didn't do 52' or I'd be there.

Make sure your purchase survey is acceptable to your insurance co -
out of the water, known surveyor, etc - otherwise you'll need a second
survey.

Most US marine insurance brokers are a pain in the ass. Blue Water and
Hayden are 2 of the worst.


"Santacruz", would you care to share why you feel Hayden is so bad? My
experience over the last 4 years with them has been exemplary. I'd like to
know what to look out for.

So - you think I'm dumb enuff to get into a long detailed "we can tell
who she is and her friends also" discussion - sorry - check around and
watch your checkbook



On Fri, 07 May 2004 02:45:30 GMT, "Free Rider"
wrote:


"santacruz" wrote in message
.. .
You didn't say where you are. In the US, Boat US is the cheapest I've
found. 52' sloop, $230K hull value for a little over $900 a year. Set
the deductible as high as they'll let you, unless you're planning to
use it. Buy the boat, car and house insurance at the same place for
multiple discounts. I don't think the auto club does 40' but they
might - I know they didn't do 52' or I'd be there.

Make sure your purchase survey is acceptable to your insurance co -
out of the water, known surveyor, etc - otherwise you'll need a second
survey.

Most US marine insurance brokers are a pain in the ass. Blue Water and
Hayden are 2 of the worst.


"Santacruz", would you care to share why you feel Hayden is so bad? My
experience over the last 4 years with them has been exemplary. I'd like to
know what to look out for.